Alaska Airlines launches first-ever flight subscription service in the US - Flight Pass

Alaska Airlines has introduced its brand new "Flight Pass", an innovative, subscription-based travel offering that takes value and flexibility to the next level. 

Starting today, Flight Pass members can fly up to 24 roundtrip flights a year to the most popular routes within California, as well as nonstop service from California airports to Reno, Phoenix and Las Vegas, for a fixed monthly rate. With annual plans starting at $49 per month, this new way to fly allows travellers to lock in main cabin deals for a full year and rewards subscribers with lower than average fares on eligible flights.

How to take an Alaska Airlines flight with Flight Pass

Sign up by creating an account at www.flightpass.alaskaair.com.

Pick your preferred plan:

Best value – Flight Pass: Starts at $49 per month, requires booking at least 14 days before travel, and as early as 90 days in advance.

Most flexible – Flight Pass Pro: Starts at $199 per month, allows same-day booking up to two hours before departure, and as early as 90 days in advance.

Choose the number of roundtrips you would like annually: 6, 12 or 24 roundtrip flights.

Redeem your credits and book your trip on an eligible flight.

Choose from 100 daily flights connecting 13 California airports to each other and to Reno, Phoenix, and Vegas

"Alaska Airlines is uniquely positioned to help our West Coast guests experience more with direct access to destinations near and far from our expanding hubs," said Neil Thwaites, regional vice president of California for Alaska Airlines. "Flight Pass will provide more options, value and care with every trip that our guests book, while also transforming the travel experience long-term."

Customers will still have the ability to earn miles toward Mileage Plan elite status for more info visit www.flightpass.alaskaair.com.

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Airbus scores record net income of € 4.2 billion in 2021

European aircraft maker Airbus has just reported its consolidated full-year financial results for 2021 and provided guidance for 2022.

The company delivered 611 commercial aircraft in 2021, with revenues of € 52.1 billion recording a net income of € 4.2 billion. 

“2021 was a year of transition, where our attention shifted from navigating the pandemic towards recovery and growth. Thanks to the resilience and efforts of our teams, customers and suppliers, we delivered remarkable full-year results,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus Chief Executive Officer. “The strong financials reflect the higher number of commercial aircraft deliveries, the good performance of our Helicopters and Defence and Space businesses as well as our efforts on cost containment and competitiveness. Record net income and our efforts to strengthen the net cash position underpin our proposal to reintroduce dividend payments going forward. At the same time, we continue to invest in our strategic priorities and in the transformation of our company.”

Gross commercial aircraft orders totalled 771 (2020: 383 aircraft) with net orders of 507 aircraft after cancellations (2020: 268 aircraft). Included were the first A350 freighter orders, confirming customer demand for this new programme. The order backlog was 7,082 commercial aircraft on 31 December 2021 (end 2020: 7,184 aircraft). Airbus Helicopters booked 414 net orders (2020: 268 units), achieving a book-to-bill ratio well above 1 both in terms of units and in value. These included 52 H160s of which 30 were the first batch of H160M military versions for France’s Joint Light Helicopter programme. Airbus Defence and Space’s order intake by value increased to € 13.7 billion (2020: € 11.9 billion), representing a book-to-bill ratio of around 1.3. Included were key orders in the Military Aircraft business such as the in-service support of the German and Spanish Eurofighter fleets as well as good export momentum for the C295, A330 MRTT and A400M airlifter.

Consolidated order intake by value increased to € 62.0 billion (2020: € 33.3 billion) with the consolidated order book valued at € 398 billion on 31 December 2021 (year-end 2020: € 373 billion). The increase in the backlog value mainly reflected the strengthening US dollar. 

Consolidated revenues increased 4 percent to € 52.1 billion (2020: € 49.9 billion), mainly reflecting the higher number of commercial aircraft deliveries, partially offset by less favourable foreign exchange rates. A total of 611 commercial aircraft were delivered (2020: 566 aircraft), comprising 50 A220s, 483 A320 Family, 18 A330s(1), 55 A350s and 5 A380s. Revenues generated by Airbus’ commercial aircraft activities increased 6 percent, largely reflecting the higher deliveries compared to 2020. Airbus Helicopters delivered 338 units (2020: 300 units), including the first H160, with revenues rising 4 percent reflecting growth in services and the higher deliveries. Revenues at Airbus Defence and Space decreased by 2 percent, mainly driven by Military Aircraft, partially offset by Space Systems. Eight A400M aircraft were delivered in 2021.

Consolidated EBIT Adjusted – an alternative performance measure and key indicator capturing the underlying business margin by excluding material charges or profits caused by movements in provisions related to programmes, restructuring or foreign exchange impacts as well as capital gains/losses from the disposal and acquisition of businesses – was € 4,865 million (2020: € 1,706 million).

The EBIT Adjusted related to Airbus’ commercial aircraft activities increased to € 3,570 million (2020: € 618 million), mainly driven by the delivery performance and efforts on cost containment and competitiveness.

Commercial aircraft production is progressing in line with previously announced plans, in a complex environment. Specifically on the A320 Family, the ramp-up is on trajectory to achieve rate 65 by summer 2023 and the Company continues to de-risk notably by enabling all assembly sites to become A321-ready. For A320 Family production rates beyond 2023, the Company is still in the assessment phase and working with suppliers to potentially enable an increase above rate 65. 

Airbus Helicopters’ EBIT Adjusted increased to € 535 million (2020: € 471 million), mainly driven by support and services, programme execution and cost focus.

EBIT Adjusted at Airbus Defence and Space increased to € 696 million (2020: € 660 million), reflecting continued cost containment.

On the A400M programme, development activities continued toward achieving the revised capability roadmap. Retrofit activities are progressing in close alignment with the customer. In the fourth quarter of 2021, a charge of € 0.2 billion was recorded mainly reflecting the updated estimates of the delivery pattern of the launch contract. This is reflected in EBIT reported.

Consolidated self-financed R&D expenses totalled € 2,746 million (2020: € 2,858 million).

Consolidated EBIT (reported) amounted to € 5,342 million (2020: € -510 million), including net Adjustments of € +477 million. 

These Adjustments comprised: 

• € +274 million related to the A380 programme, of which € +84 million were in Q4;
• € +122 million gain from the sale of one site in France, recorded in Q4;
• €  -212 million related to the A400M, of which € -209 million were in Q4;
• €    -38 million negative impact from foreign exchange and balance sheet revaluation, of which € +127 million were in Q4;
• € +331 million of other Adjustments including mainly around € 0.2 billion of provision release related to the restructuring plan, and payments by suppliers. € +285 million were booked in Q4.

 The financial result was € -315 million (2020: € -620 million). It mainly reflects the net interest result of € -246 million as well as the revaluation of financial instruments and of certain equity investments. Consolidated net income(2) was € 4,213 million (2020 net loss: € -1,133 million) with consolidated reported earnings per share of € 5.36 (2020 loss per share: € -1.45).

Consolidated free cash flow before M&A and customer financing was € 3,515 million (2020: € -6,935 million), reflecting efforts on cash containment and a decrease in working capital, mainly driven by inventory improvement. Consolidated free cash flow was € 3,511 million (2020: € -7,362 million).

On 31 December 2021, the gross cash position stood at € 22.7 billion (year-end 2020: € 21.4 billion) with a consolidated net cash position of € 7.6 billion (year-end 2020: € 4.3 billion). The Company’s liquidity position remains strong, standing at € 28.7 billion at the end of 2021.

The Board of Directors will propose the payment of a 2021 dividend of € 1.50 per share to the 2022 Annual General Meeting. The payment date is 21 April 2022.

Etihad Airways to take seven new generation Airbus A350F freighter jets

Etihad Airways has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) for seven A350F freighters to add to its existing fleet of five A350-1000 passenger versions. The announcement was made at the Singapore Airshow 2022. Etihad has also selected Airbus’s Flight Hour Services (FHS) to support its entire A350 fleet.

“Etihad is delighted to extend our relationship with Airbus to include this remarkable aircraft as part of our freighter fleet for the future,” said Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group. “As our cargo operations continue to overperform and we work towards a more sustainable future built upon the world’s youngest and most fuel-efficient fleet, the addition of the A350F will play a key role in driving our long-term cargo strategy and achieving our 2035 target to reduce CO ₂ emissions by 50%.”

“We are pleased to sign this agreement with our long-standing partner Etihad, shortly before this most discerning airline also introduces A350 passenger service. Thank you, Etihad for endorsing the game-changing nature of the new A350F” said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International. “The world’s only new generation large freighter will be unmatched in its market segment in terms of range, fuel consumption and CO₂ savings.”

As part of the world’s most modern long-range family, the A350F provides a high level of commonality with the A350 passenger versions. With a 109-tonne payload capability, the A350F can serve all cargo markets. The aircraft features a large main deck cargo door, with its fuselage length and capacity optimised around the industry’s standard pallets and containers. 

More than 70% of the airframe of the A350F is made of advanced materials, resulting in a 30 tonne lighter take-off weight and generating at least 20% lower fuel consumption and emissions over its current closest competitor. The A350F fully meets ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards coming into effect in 2027. To date, the A350F has won firm orders and commitments for 29 aircraft from 5 customers.

The A350F meets the imminent wave of large freighter replacements and the evolving environmental requirements, shaping the future of air freight. The A350F will be powered by the latest technology, fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines.

 

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The WestJet Group announced that Alexis von Hoensbroech has officially started his role as Chief Executive Officer - CEO.

"It is my pleasure to officially welcome Alexis to the WestJet Group at this pivotal time for the business," said Chris Burley, Chairman of WestJet's board of directors. "With extensive experience in aviation and in leading a global airline through the pandemic, we are confident that under Alexis' leadership his vision will accelerate the WestJet Group's recovery."

"As the WestJet Group moves into its next chapter, I am thrilled to be joining this dedicated team, at such a critical time," said von Hoensbroech. "As we forge ahead, the more than 8,500 WestJet and Swoop employees have shown admirable tenacity and determination over the last two years. Together we will emerge from the pandemic stronger, and I am excited to work alongside this incredible group, as we take WestJet and Swoop to new heights."

After obtaining a doctorate in physics, von Hoensbroech, 51, spent his early career at the management consultancy company, The Boston Consulting Group, in Munich and Tokyo, with clients primarily from the aviation industry. He joined the Lufthansa Group in 2005 as head of strategy and investment management for the airline. From there, ran various integration projects; became head of commercial at the airline's biggest hub in Frankfurt, before becoming CCO of Lufthansa Cargo AG. Most recently, as CEO and CFO of Austrian Airlines, he restructured the airline and its network to compete with ULCC competition in Austria and successfully led the company through the COVID crisis.

"I want to give my sincerest thank you to Harry Taylor, for his exceptional leadership and contributions over the past three months," continued Burley. "Harry successfully led and stabilized the WestJet Group through a challenging holiday season in the face of the unpredictable impact of the Omicron variant. We are grateful for Harry's dedication and continued leadership as he returns to his permanent role as WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)."

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Lufthansa and Fraport recycle up to 4 million PET bottles annually

Fraport AG and Lufthansa Optimize Recyclable Material Cycle

“Closed Loop" recycling project implemented in just a few months

In a move that is making a sustainable contribution to climate and environmental protection, Fraport and Lufthansa have teamed up to transfer recyclable PET bottles directly from the aircraft into a sustainable and closed recycling loop. Frankfurt Airport is the first airport in Europe involved with this process. PET (polyethene terephthalate) is the name of a clear, strong, lightweight and 100% recyclable plastic. Lufthansa and Fraport, together with Hassia Mineralquellen, a company that markets some of the finest mineral waters of Germany, intensely tested a closed loop recycling project in late 2021 and upon a successful completion, immediately transferred it to regular operation in Frankfurt.

Bottles are 100 percent recycled

Around 60 percent of the waste weight from an aircraft is accounted for by returned PET bottles and their contents. These bottles are collected separately, after landing, and handed over to Hassia Mineralquellen, which integrates the bottles into its own recycling process. The recovered PET granulate is then used to make new bottle blanks, which are filled with beverages again. This means that the collected PET bottles are 100 percent recycled. 

Based on Lufthansa's current air traffic volume, it is expected that around four million PET bottles weighing 72 tons can be collected this year alone. Based on flight movements and the load factor for 2019, the project partners could collect up to 10 million PET bottles per year in the future.

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Air Lease Corporation Announces Fourth Quarter & Fiscal Year 2021 Results

John L. Plueger, Chief Executive Officer and President of leasing giant Air Lease Corporation: “We had a strong fourth quarter and second half of 2021 that benefited from continuing airline industry recovery, as seen in our cash collections, operating metrics, fleet expansion, and record lease placements. We resumed our aircraft sales program and concluded the largest aircraft order in ALC’s history to support the growing demand we are seeing in the marketplace,” 

Air Lease Corporation announces financial results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2021.

“We are witnessing strengthening lease rates overall across the spectrum of new and used aircraft, including improvement in widebody lease rates being positively influenced by the exceptional strength in the freight market. Reflecting continued confidence in our future and profitability, our Board of Directors has approved a $150 million common share repurchase authorization, in addition to our 37th consecutive quarterly dividend,” said Steven F. Udvar-Házy, Executive Chairman of the Board.

Highlights

Finalized agreements with Airbus to purchase a total of 116 aircraft, including 59 A321neos, 25 A220-300s, 20 A321XLRs, seven A350Fs and five A330-900s. This represented the largest individual order for new aircraft in our Company's history.

In February 2022, we agreed to purchase from Boeing 50 737 MAX aircraft, consisting of 32 incremental 737 MAX aircraft and 18 737 MAX aircraft resulting from the conversion of three 787 aircraft. Deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to commence in 2024 and continue through 2026.

Issued $3.7 billion of senior unsecured medium-term notes in 2021 with a weighted average interest rate of 1.27% and ended the year with total liquidity(1) of $7.9 billion.

Took delivery of 15 aircraft from our order book during the fourth quarter, representing $1.2 billion in aircraft investments. As of December 31, 2021, we had 382 aircraft in our owned fleet, with a net book value of $22.9 billion, a weighted average age of 4.4 years and a weighted average lease term remaining of 7.2 years.

Placed 99% of our contracted orderbook positions on long-term leases for aircraft delivering through the end of 2023 and have placed 58% of our entire orderbook.

Ended the year with $30.9 billion in committed minimum future rental payments consisting of $14.8 billion in contracted minimum rental payments on the aircraft in our existing fleet and $16.1 billion in minimum future rental payments related to aircraft on order.

Collection rate(2) for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2021 was 99.3% and 91.4%, respectively. This contributed to the 26.3% increase in our operating cash flow for the year ended December 31, 2021.

Lease utilization rate(3) for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2021 was 99.8%.

On February 15, 2022, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $150.0 million of our Class A common stock. The program expires on September 30, 2022.

On February 15, 2022, our board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.185 per share on our outstanding common stock. The dividend will be paid on April 7, 2022 to holders of record of our common stock as of March 18, 2022.

Storm Eunice causes travel disruption....

Storm Eunice is currently causing travel chaos and disruption across the UK with over 100 flights at many airports either delayed or cancelled and ferry services suspended.

The UK's Met Office has issued two very rare red 'danger to life' warnings for parts of the UK and Wales as winds are expected to top 90 miles an hour.  Numerous train operators have cancelled services, including the whole of the Welsh network. 

More soon.

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Airbus to support Philippine Airlines’ traffic ramp up with cabin upgrades and new material services

Airbus to support Philippine Airlines’ traffic ramp up with cabin upgrades and new material services 

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has selected Airbus to perform cabin modification for 15 aircraft and expand the material services programme for the airline’s Airbus fleet. 

The cabin modification agreement covers 11 A320, two A330-300s and two A350-900s.

When completed, PAL’s A320s will have 24 extra seats to bring the total seat count to 180, a configuration that suits the airline’s requirements for short-haul inter-island domestic routes. The two A330s will gain an additional 50 seats to bring the total seat count to 359 for better airlift capability on key higher-density regional routes and repatriation flights. The A350s will gain another 18 seats for a total of 313 seats, which still preserves the roomy cabin layout and passenger-friendly experience that PAL Business Class and Economy Class travellers enjoy on the A350’s long-haul routes.

PAL has contracted Airbus to provide the relevant Service Bulletins and kits required for the cabin modification programme, which comes as part of the carrier’s fleet restructuring plans. 

“Philippine Airlines believes that, as we exit the pandemic, our fleet restructuring strategy helps us to better adapt to changing market situations and ensure that we are well-positioned for recovery,” said Nilo Thaddeus Rodriguez, PAL Chief Financial Officer. “Our aircraft deployment decisions and related technical support arrangements are tailored for a restructured network that suits a vastly different global environment.” 

New daytime Newark - Heathrow flight for British Airways

The UK's British Airways will launch a new, daytime flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to London Heathrow – its third daily flight from Newark to London, from 6th June.

This additional flight will depart at 07.55 from Newark landing back to Heathrow in the early evening with the return sector departing at 19:10. The flight will operate daily on a Boeing 777-200 with 48 Club World seats, 40 World Traveller Plus seats, and 184 World Traveller seats.

The airline is also resuming its ‘daylight’ service from JFK in March, which proves to be a convenient option particularly valued by its business travellers, and customers who prefer to travel during the day.

With this new frequency, British Airways along with its joint business partner American Airlines will offer the most extensive network from the New York area to London with 15 daily departures this summer, including 11 daily flights from JFK to Heathrow and 1 daily flight from JFK to Gatwick.  From April 2022, all flights to JFK and EWR from Heathrow on BA and AA will depart out of BA’s Terminal 5, and by next year, all British Airways flights in JFK will depart from AA’s home in Terminal 8.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Director of Networks and Alliances said: “We are pleased to be launching our third daily flight from Newark, to further strengthen our New York – London schedule. The convenient morning departure is popular with customers who might prefer having an extra night in New York or arriving in London in the evening to start their following day more refreshed.  

“Including American Airlines, we offer the largest and most convenient schedules from the New York area to London and are the only airline or alliance that offers service to and from both major New York and London airports.  As we continue to co-locate our New York and London operations with American Airlines, we will provide a more seamless journey for our customers allowing them to access our combined 15 daily departures”

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Air New Zealand's livery changes through the years......

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SmartLynx hiring cabin crew team!

Dreaming to become a Cabin Crew or fancy a change in your career?

SmartLynx is looking for Experienced & Inexperienced Cabin Crew to join its growing team.

"As a member of our cabin crew, you will enjoy all the benefits of supported accommodation, the exciting and ever-changing life of being a crew member, having multinational and multicultural colleagues. You will grow professionally and personally!

For newcomers to the industry, we provide all the necessary training and open doors to an amazing and rewarding new world. Grow with us! Call out to Senior Cabin Crew ready to take the leadership roles in cabins of our A320/A330 Family and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft!

This is an exciting opportunity to join the #smartteam and the leading ACMI operator in the world. You have excellent personality and people management skills, and you are eager to work in a multicultural team? We want you!"

SmartLynx Cabin Crew Team | SmartLynx Airlines

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airBaltic announces flights to Batumi

Latvian airline airBaltic announces that starting on May 2, 2022, it plans to launch new scheduled flights between Riga and Batumi, Georgia. airBaltic has scheduled to connect both cities with two weekly flights.

Situated in Georgia and bordered by the Black Sea, Batumi is a port city that is slowly becoming as one of the most popular tourist leisure destinations. It’s famous for its sunny beaches, impressive architecture and botanical gardens.

Not many destinations have the skyscrapers, the beach, and the mountains all in one shot outside the plane’s window but this jewel of the Black Sea is one of them. Discover Batumi – Georgia’s most charming seaside town where the beaches are welcoming, the food and wine mouth-watering, and the culture ancient and vibrant.

Astonishing contrasts of architecture will not leave you unimpressed – take a ride with the cable car for spectacular city views over futuristic skyscrapers and charming old town with the Black Sea in the background. For a real authentic experience, venture to the local market Batumis Bazari for the bustling atmosphere, freshest flavours of street food and locally made chacha – the market is the best place where to witness Georgian hospitable spirit.

High above the Black Sea set in the hills lie Batumi's Botanical Gardens – an Eden of sorts where to seek tranquillity whilst gazing across the bright blue waters and city skyline far below. Then take a stroll along the world’s longest boulevard stretching south towards the Turkish border and watch the sun going down in the sea painting the sky in strikingly beautiful colours.

Just after dusk when the city turns into a sea of lights and streets are filled with music, visit the Alphabetic tower – a 130m high structure that has become a major tourist attraction symbolising the uniqueness of the Georgian alphabet and giving the city an edgy feel.

For a complete Georgian experience, take a train ride from Batumi through the gorgeous countryside ending at metropolitan Tbilisi – another airBaltic destination in Georgia. Fly to Batumi, explore the inland of Georgia, and fly back from Tbilisi!

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AirAsia Aviation Group orders 100 VX4 eVTOL aircraft

Avolon, the international aircraft leasing company, announced this week that one of the world’s leading airline groups, AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (‘AirAsia’), has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to lease a minimum of 100 VX4 eVTOL aircraft from Avolon. These eVTOL aircraft will allow AirAsia to further revolutionise air travel by providing advanced air mobility to a whole new range of passengers, transforming how we all connect more efficiently in our everyday lives.

 

In addition to the eVTOL aircraft, Avolon, through its investment and innovation affiliate Avolon-e, will partner with AirAsia to commercialise zero-emissions eVTOL aircraft and develop an industry-leading urban air mobility (‘UAM’) platform in Southeast Asia. Avolon and AirAsia will form a working group to pursue local certification, research potential market opportunities and infrastructure requirements for UAM. AirAsia will also leverage its successful travel and lifestyle mobile app, the AirAsia Super App, to help support and build an eVTOL ride-sharing platform with Avolon.

 

Avolon VX4 Order book

In June 2021, Avolon ordered 500 VX4 eVTOL aircraft from Vertical Aerospace (NYSE: EVTL) (‘Vertical’), valued at US $2 billion. Since announcing that order, Avolon placed 250 VX4 aircraft with Gol and Grupo Comporte in Brazil, up to 100 aircraft with Japan Airlines in Japan, and a minimum of 100 aircraft with AirAsia. As a result, Avolon has now placed up to 90% of its initial order book, underlining the demand for VX4 aircraft from the world’s leading airlines.

 

Dómhnal Slattery, CEO of Avolon commented: “Tony Fernandes is an aviation pioneer who has built AirAsia into one of the leading airlines in the world and has now also created Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing Super App anchored on travel. We are delighted to partner with AirAsia who share our vision of revolutionising the future of air travel. We look forward to working with Tony, and the AirAsia team, on their eVTOL journey. Together we will develop a ride-sharing platform and bring the zero-emissions VX4 aircraft into service, positioning AirAsia as the operator of choice for sustainable air travel in the region.”

 

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A commented: “Innovation has always been in our DNA and using technology to look at more efficient and sustainable ways of doing things is a core focus across Capital A (formerly AirAsia Group). We are now much more than just an airline with over 20 products and services on our super app leveraging off each other including flights, hotels, food, retail, delivery, ride-hailing and more. I am truly excited about this partnership between Avolon and AirAsia and the potential for zero-emissions ultra-short-haul air travel in Southeast Asia. The digital era is now. In the VX4, we have identified what we believe will be the eVTOL aircraft of choice and we are thrilled to be the launch airline for the aircraft in Southeast Asia. We are also delighted to extend our long-standing relationship with Avolon, which has a proven track record of delivering for its customers and is in sync with our goal to become the leading one-stop travel and delivery platform in ASEAN.”

 

Stephen Fitzpatrick, CEO of Vertical commented: "We are delighted that AirAsia is the latest leading airline committing to lease our zero operating emissions VX4 aircraft. AirAsia provides many fantastic opportunities to travel around some of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world, and I am thrilled that we will be bringing zero emissions flight to people all across Asia."

 

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BOC Aviation gains contract from SIA Engineering Company (“SIAEC”) for heavy maintenance projects on widebody aircraft

BOC Aviation Limited announced that it has awarded a contract to SIA Engineering Company (“SIAEC”) to conduct heavy maintenance projects on widebody aircraft that it will transition to new customers in 2022. It represents an extension of last year’s successfully completed mandate for support in transitioning narrowbody aircraft. The 2022 work will be carried out at SIAEC’s main base in Singapore and at SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corporation, its wholly-owned subsidiary located in Clark, Philippines.

“We are delighted to be working once again with our partners at SIAEC,” said Mr. Robert Martin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BOC Aviation. “The combination of quality and reliability make SIAEC a good choice to support our aircraft transition work in order to deliver on our commitments to provide aircraft to our airline customers.”

Mr. Ng Chin Hwee, Chief Executive Officer of SIAEC, said: “We appreciate BOC Aviation’s confidence in awarding the contract to SIAEC Group to support its fleet. This reflects BOC Aviation’s continued trust in SIAEC’s extensive maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities and reliable services.  With decades of MRO experience behind us, we are confident of delivering top-quality maintenance services and engineering support to BOC Aviation.”

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FAI has transported 225 covid patients in isolation units

FAI has transported 225 covid patients in isolation units: - Our medical staff prefers the EpiShuttle...

Since 2020, German-based FAI Air Ambulance has saved 225 covid patients. Most of these patients have been isolated with the EpiShuttle. Safe patient transport from outbreak hotspots to areas with intensive care units available has proven a critical factor when fighting a pandemic.

Since 2020, German-based FAI Air Ambulance has saved 225 covid patients.

Volker Lemke, Managing Director in FAI Air Ambulance, says that they investigated the market for single-unit isolation units and decided to acquire the industry-leading EpiShuttle in 2020.

- We deployed the EpiShuttle as a security measure for our pilots. Contrary to our medical staff who also work in hospital settings, our pilots were not used to this kind of patient transport. At the beginning of the pandemic, there was a lot of insecurity regarding transmission, routines, severity and so on, Lemke explains.

- Patient transport to where ICU capacity is available has proven to be a crucial piece of the puzzle when handling a pandemic. Only when safe transport is in place can we utilize the full capacity of the entire health care system and ensure treatment for everyone, Ellen Cathrine Andersen, CEO at EpiGuard says.

Advantageous on long haul flights

After almost two years, the main rationale for deploying the EpiShuttle has changed in line with the development of the pandemic.

- Now all our staff appreciate using the EpiShuttle. It comes with different benefits and eases the pressure on the staff, not only the pilots. Our medical staff doesn’t need to use PPE which is especially advantageous on long-haul flights. This reduces the risk of fatigue and the risk of doing mistakes for the employees. They can also drink, eat and talk to each other in a more normal manner. Our medical staff prefers the EpiShuttle, that’s no discussion. It makes their life easier, Lemke says.

Virgin Galactic reveals a new look as it opens sales to the public for its future space flights.

Virgin Galactic reveals a new look as it opens sales to the public for its future space flights. 

“At Virgin Galactic, we believe that space is transformational,” said Virgin Galactic CEO Michael Colglazier. “We plan to have our first 1,000 customers on board at the start of commercial service later this year, providing an incredibly strong foundation as we begin regular operations and scale our fleet.”

Virgin Galactic spaceflight reservations also provide access to the Future Astronaut membership community -- designed and curated to bring inspiration, excitement, and adventure from the time of ticket purchase to spaceflight and beyond. Members will enjoy access to money-can’t-buy experiences, events, trips and space-readiness activities while they await their spaceflight.

The spaceflight itself launches from Spaceport America in New Mexico. Starting with several days of spaceflight preparedness activities, future astronauts will stay with their guests at forthcoming custom accommodations. Guests will enjoy bespoke itineraries and world-class amenities during astronaut-specific training programs.

During spaceflight, astronauts will experience a 90-minute journey including a signature air launch and Mach-3 boost to space. The spaceship gracefully flips while astronauts enjoy several minutes of out-of-seat weightlessness and breath-taking views of Earth from the spaceship’s 17 windows. Upon return from this transformational experience, astronauts will begin a meaningful journey to create positive impact with the perspective that can only come from seeing our beautiful planet from space.

To mark the launch of public sales, Virgin Galactic unveiled a new, iconic consumer brand, designed to capture the love, wonder and awe of the experience of viewing Earth from space, and to inspire generations of future astronauts around the world. The newly unveiled brand identity features the spaceship; the very definition of engineering excellence, a celebration of pioneering design, and an icon wholly unique to the Virgin Galactic spaceflight experience.

“We have developed a compelling and effective sales process to support the growth of our commercial business,” said Blair Rich, President and Chief Business Officer, Commercial and Consumer Operations. “A global, commercial spaceline demands an iconic and timeless brand. It is important that our brand represents our dynamic customer offering, and speaks to our unique experience, style and service.”

Spaceflight reservations are a total price of USD $450,000. Following an initial deposit of USD $150,000, customers will make their final payment before their flight. Those interested in spaceflight reservations can visit www.virgingalactic.com to start the application process.

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AeroVironment Awarded $8.5 Million Puma AE Unmanned Aircraft Systems Foreign Military Sales Contract for U.S. Ally

Portable, rugged Puma 3 All Environment (AE) unmanned aircraft system provides immediate tactical reconnaissance capabilities for land and maritime operations

Foreign Military Sales program promotes interoperability among the U.S. and allied forces for joint operations

AeroVironment, Inc,  a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems, today announced it received an $8,541,428 firm-fixed-price U.S. Department of Defense Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract award on Jan. 27, 2022, to provide Puma™ 3 AE small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), initial spares packages, training and support to an allied nation. Delivery is anticipated by November 2022.

“Combat-proven, versatile and reliable, Puma 3 AE provides persistent situational awareness, critical force protection and force multiplication capabilities to small tactical units conducting operations in salt water, fresh water or on land,” said Trace Stevenson, AeroVironment vice president and product line general manager for small UAS.

AeroVironment’s Puma 3 AE delivers mission-critical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) in all environments. Puma 3 AE has a wingspan of 9.2 feet (2.8 meters), weighs 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms) and can operate for up to 37.2 miles (60 kilometres) with AeroVironment’s Long-Range Tracking Antenna (LRTA). Multi-mission capable, operators can swap between Mantis™ i45 and the enhanced night variant Mantis i45 N for day, night and low-light operations. Puma 3 AE is launchable by hand, bungee, rail, or vehicle, and recoverable by deep-stall landing, providing class-leading capabilities in challenging environments around the world.

Republic Airways 10th Annual Plane Pull to Take Off at Indianapolis International Airport

Back for its 10th annual event on Saturday, April 23, the Republic Airways Plane Pull has raised $3 million for A Kid Again, Indiana Wish, Riley Children’s Foundation and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent.

Republic Airways' 10th Annual Plane Pull event will take place on Saturday, April 23, at Republic Airways Indianapolis Maintenance Center Hangar located on Indianapolis International Airport property at 3998 S. Hoffman Road. The sky is the limit for this family-friendly event that has raised nearly $3 million since its inception, and this year aims to be the largest, most successful fundraiser yet. The event benefits the following four area children’s organizations: A Kid Again, Indiana Wish, Riley Children’s Foundation and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent.

The Plane Pull began in memory of Tyler Frenzel, a Carmel, Indiana, boy who suffered from leukemia and passed away in 2004. Over the years, funds raised through the Plane Pull have contributed to countless wishes and care for children fighting life-threatening illnesses through the four beneficiaries.

“After taking a hiatus the past two years due to the pandemic, we are thrilled to host this incredible event once again in support of children in our community,” said Amy Arnell, Director of Corporate and Community Responsibility for Republic Airways. "While the event itself is fun for people of all ages, and people playing tug-of-war with an airline jet is certainly a sight to see, it’s even more rewarding to see the individuals who are positively impacted by this unique fundraiser.”

Singapore Airlines has finalised an order for seven Airbus A350F freighter aircraft.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has finalised a purchase agreement with Airbus for seven A350F freighter aircraft. The order was signed at the Singapore Airshow by SIA CEO Goh Choong Phong, and Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International Christian Scherer.

The order firms up the carrier's commitment to the new generation freighter announced by the planemaker in December 2021. The newly ordered aircraft will replace the carrier’s existing 747-400F fleet from the fourth quarter of 2025. 

“This order underscores the importance of the cargo market to the SIA Group. The introduction of the A350F will enhance our capabilities in this key sector, ensuring that we are ready for the growth opportunities that will arise in the coming years. These new-generation aircraft will substantially increase our operating efficiencies and reduce our fuel burn, making an important contribution towards the success of our long-term decarbonisation goals,” said Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines.

“Singapore Airlines is the world's largest operator of the A350 and is now set to become the first to fly the all-new freighter variant,” said Christian Scherer. “The A350F will fit seamlessly into the carrier's existing fleet, while redefining the operational efficiency of its cargo operations, bringing a 40% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions compared with the aircraft it will replace at SIA, while offering the same payload-carrying capacity and longer range. Consumer patterns have changed dramatically in recent times, generating increased demand for the swift transport of cargo by air. With the A350F, SIA will be well-positioned to respond to this enormous market potential in a profitable and sustainable way.”

The A350F meets the imminent wave of large freighter replacements and the evolving environmental requirements, shaping the future of air freight. The A350F will be powered by the latest technology, fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines.

The A350F is based on the world’s most modern long-range passenger family. With a 109- tonne payload capability, the A350F will serve all cargo markets. The aircraft features a large main deck cargo door, with its fuselage length and capacity optimised around the industry’s standard pallets and containers.

More than 70% of the airframe will be made of advanced materials, resulting in a 30tonne lighter take-off weight and generating at least 20% lower fuel consumption and emissions over its current closest competitor. The A350F will fully meet ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards coming into effect in 2027.

Singapore Airlines is the world’s largest operator of the A350, with 58 currently in service.
 

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Airbus signs agreement to study hydrogen hub in Singapore

Airbus has signed a Cooperation Agreement with Changi Airport Group, global industrial gases and engineering company Linde and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) to study the potential for a future hydrogen hub in the city state. 

The agreement was signed at the Singapore Airshow by Sabine Klauke, Airbus Chief Technical Officer, Han Kok Juan, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, Yam Kum Weng, Executive Vice President of Changi Airport Group, and John Panikar, Executive Vice President, APAC of Linde.

It reflects the four partners’ shared ambition to leverage their respective expertise to support the decarbonization of the aviation industry and to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Under the collaboration, the partners will look at how hydrogen can be transported, stored and delivered to aircraft at existing and new airports. This expands on an earlier agreement with CAAS to evaluate hydrogen infrastructures, widening the scope to include the airport and energy provider.

Airbus will provide characteristics on aircraft configuration and fleet energy usage, insight on hydrogen-powered aircraft for ground operations, and data on the estimated hydrogen aircraft ramp-up at airports.

“The Asia-Pacific region will play a key role as we work towards making climate-neutral aviation a reality,” said Sabine Klauke, Airbus Chief Technical Officer. “By partnering with Changi Airport and with Incheon Airport, Airbus will leverage the operational and technical expertise of two of the world’s leading hubs. The studies we will carry out together reflect the need for a cross-sectoral approach, including manufacturers, airlines, regulators, airports, energy providers and academia. We need bold and coordinated action to achieve our goals.”

The use of hydrogen to power future aircraft is not only expected to reduce significantly aircraft emissions in the air, but could also help decarbonise air transport activities on the ground. In 2020 Airbus launched the “Hydrogen Hub at Airports” programme to jumpstart research into infrastructure requirements and low-carbon airport operations, across the entire value chain. 

To date agreements have been signed with partners and airports in Paris, Seoul and Singapore.

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Air Canada Ranked One of Montreal's Top Employers for the Ninth Consecutive Year

Air Canada has been recognized as one of "Montreal's Top Employers" for 2022 in Mediacorp Canada's annual employer survey, marking the ninth consecutive year that the airline has received this award.

"We are proud to be headquartered in Montreal, where we play a vital role in the economic success of this vibrant city, and we are honoured to be recognized for a ninth consecutive year as one of Montreal's Top Employers. As a global airline, the culture we had developed enabled Air Canada to continue to succeed through the most challenging times, and this workplace culture together with our employees' professionalism and unwavering dedication are integral components to Air Canada successfully rebuilding following the pandemic," said Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Affairs. "We continue to foster a positive work environment supporting employee fulfillment, growth and development to ensure that Air Canada remains positioned for success with an engaged workforce."

This year Air Canada was selected for:

• Its exceptional performance and achievement through peer-nominated Excellence Awards, the Shine recognition platform for everyday appreciation, and service awards for longstanding employees.
  
  
• Helping employees prioritize their health and wellness through its "Unlock to a Better You" platform, which includes an extensive health and wellness risk assessment and various resources to support positive mental health.
  
  
• Its commitment to advancing opportunities for women through the Catalyst Accord, whose objective is to increase representation of women on boards and in executive roles to 30 per cent by 2022, which Air Canada achieved in 2020. Additionally, Air Canada awards the annual Captain Judy Cameron Scholarships to encourage young women to pursue aviation careers as commercial pilots or aircraft maintenance engineers.

The health and safety of employees is and remains Air Canada's top priority. Since the onset of the pandemic, Air Canada has taken a leadership position in implementing a range of health and safety initiatives to protect employees, including a rapid screening program in the workplace to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, trial applications of contact tracing using new technology, telework where practical, issuing and regularly updating guidance to safe workplaces, among other programs. The airline also recalled furloughed employees to provide customer service expertise and logistical support as non-clinical staff at provincial vaccination clinics across Canada.

In addition to the "Montreal's Top Employers" 2022 award, Air Canada has also been named on the Forbes list of Canada's Best Employers 2022. Forbes partnered with market research firm Statista to compile its annual list by surveying more than 10,000 Canadians working for businesses with at least 500 employees.

For more information and bookings please visit Air Canada's site here.

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