SunExpress named 'Fastest Growing Airline Brand, Germany and Turkey' for 2023

SunExpress was conferred the 'Fastest Growing Airline Brand, Germany and Turkey' for 2023 at the prestigious Global Brand Awards.

The Prestigious Global Brand Awards, an annual event by Global Brands Magazine (GBM) based in England, strives to honour worldwide brands that distinguish themselves across diverse industries while ensuring that readers are up-to-date on pivotal trends in the realm of branding. Global Brands Magazine undertook a thorough evaluation encompassing various criteria, such as Growth in passenger numbers, expansion of routes, fleet expansion, financial performance, innovation and many more. SunExpress stands out prominently for its innovative approach, contributing to its rapid growth.  Therefore, SunExpress well deserves Global Brands Magazine's recognition.

Commenting on winning the award, Jay Reddy, Director, Global Brands Magazine, said, "We extend our heartfelt congratulations to SunExpress for achieving the prestigious title of the Fastest-growing Airline Brand in Turkey and Germany. SunExpress's unwavering commitment to innovation, coupled with an exceptional approach in the industry, has propelled its remarkable growth. This award is a testament to SunExpress's dedication to excellence, and they truly deserve this honour."

Commenting on winning the award, Benedikt Sieweke, Chief Marketing Officer, SunExpress, said, "We use cross-media and cross-device communication to not only gather valuable smart data but also boost our marketing performance significantly while using our resources efficiently. We are proud to be awarded the Global Brand Award not only in one, but two markets, Germany and Türkiye, for this approach and our brand performance. Our focus will remain firmly on uncovering and seizing new market potentials in the future. AI will play a bigger role than ever in making our customer communication faster, better, and more efficient."

Global Brand Awards honours brands for their excellence in performance and rewards companies across different sectors for the quality of their services. The Brand Awards highlight the accomplishments of organisations that have performed remarkably well in finance, education, hospitality, automotive, lifestyle, education, real estate, technology, and others. Global Brand Awards recognise vital players who progress towards excellence by providing a platform to acknowledge their efforts. 

London Gatwick proud to partner with Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology

London Gatwick has proudly partnered with the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT), a collaboration between businesses and education providers to deliver technical skills and qualifications required in the region. 

By partnering with the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology, which launched earlier this academic year (2023-24), students will gain first-hand airport experience, network with professionals and learn about the latest technical developments across London Gatwick. 

London Gatwick has helped shape the curriculum to ensure the courses are relevant and responsive to the needs of the local economy. Specialist staff at the airport will also host masterclass sessions for students and hold mock interview sessions and feedback.   

The Institute of Technology differs from colleges and universities by bringing together businesses with a group of education providers in a collaborative partnership to support the technical skills requirements of the area they serve.  

The aim is to create a diverse and skilled pipeline of local talent which is critical to the local community and London Gatwick’s future growth.   

London Gatwick’s Cyber Security Apprentice, Malaika Khan, is also studying through the Institute of Technology. She said: “My experience at London Gatwick as a Cyber Security Apprentice has been nothing short of extraordinary. I have gained a deeper understanding of cyber security and developed a stronger passion for this dynamic field thanks to the incredible support of my team members and plenty of hands-on experience.  

“London Gatwick and the Institute of Technology has provided me with invaluable guidance and an environment of collaboration that is helping me to shape into an enthusiastic cyber professional. I'm grateful for this opportunity and excited for the continued growth ahead!” 

As part of London Gatwick’s sustainability policy, Decade of Change, the airport has committed to dedicating time to support local workforce skills initiatives. As a result, Gatwick has been involved in the design and delivery of training, with a focus on IT and cyber security.  

Nick Batchelor, Director of Information Technology, London Gatwick said: “We are delighted to be an industry partner of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology, an exciting institution for the region, its learners and employers.   

Hawaiʻi Seaglider Initiative Launches with Airlines and Other Local Partners to Provide Affordable & Accessible Kamaʻāina Transportation

The Hawaiʻi Seaglider Initiative (HSI) launched with a broad coalition committed to delivering a new affordable and accessible transportation option to Hawaiʻi communities.

“I commend the Hawai‘i Seaglider Initiative partners from the private, public and community sectors for working together to explore sustainable transportation technology that is in line with our climate change and clean energy strategies,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. “This investment in our interisland transportation network will provide a renewable transportation alternative that will help keep our communities connected, support our local businesses and build a resilient economy for Hawai‘i.”

Seagliders are all-electric, zero-emission vessels that would operate exclusively over water at speeds up to 180mph, drastically reducing the time and cost of transporting people and freight between coastal communities. Seagliders operate by floating on a hull before transitioning to wave-tolerant underwater hydrofoils and ultimately taking flight at ultra-low altitudes, 30 to 60 feet above the water’s surface.

"We eagerly anticipate the transformative possibilities that seagliders bring to enhancing the well-being of individuals throughout Hawaiʻi, particularly our Molokai community. By offering an affordable and sustainable means of transportation, seagliders aim to facilitate improved access to healthcare and employment opportunities," expressed Kuhio Lewis, CEO of The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) and an advisor to HSI. "CNHA is excited to collaborate with HSI to ensure that the introduction of seagliders positively impacts and uplifts Native Hawaiians and communities across Hawaiʻi."

At launch, HSI members comprise more than a dozen prominent corporate and community organizations, including: AES Hawaiʻi, Alaska Airlines, CNHA, Hawaiʻi Agricultural Foundation, Hawaiian Airlines, Hawaii Building & Constructions Trades Council, Hawaiʻi Lodging and Tourism Association, IBEW Local 1186, Japan Airlines, Makaha Cultural Learning Center, Maui Hotel & Lodging Association, Mokulele Airlines, Molokaʻi Chamber of Commerce, Pacific Current, Polynesian Adventure, Pulama Lanaʻi, REGENT Craft, Retail Merchants of Hawaiʻi, United Airlines, and Young Brothers.

IAG Cargo to open applications for 2024 graduate scheme at London Heathrow

IAG Cargo is taking applications for its 2024 Graduate Scheme

The programme has been running for 11 years and specially selects the top 1.1% of applicants to launch their careers in global logistics

 

Successful candidates will gain experience across a range of head office functions and have great opportunities for fast progression within the business.

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is looking for eleven budding logistics professionals to join its two-year graduate programme commencing in September 2024 based at London Heathrow. Having first launched in 2012, the programme has produced numerous senior business leaders and provides valuable experience across different areas of the business from operations, revenue management, human resources to sales.

IAG Cargo supports many industries to transport goods across the globe, helping to keep the world’s economy turning. By utilising the belly-holds of passenger flights across the Group’s five airlines - British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL – IAG Cargo moves everything you can think of whether it’s to keep the automobile production line on schedule, stock supermarket shelves, or to deliver life-saving medicines. 

New intakes will benefit from IAG Cargo’s brand-new learning hub to ensure a comprehensive induction into the business. Graduates from the 2023 cohort also had the opportunity to travel to IAG Cargo’s hubs in Madrid and Dublin to provide an insight into the business’ global operations.

Caroline Andrew, Chief People Officer at IAG Cargo said: “Our graduate programme is a key initiative for the business in supporting and developing early-career talent. Working within high-performing teams across the organisation, our graduates are provided with nurturing support in a collaborative setting, fostering their true potential and paving the way for their journey as future leaders.

"Alongside our enticing accelerated development opportunities such as our Leadership Programme Leading the Way, recently revamped fitness facilities, and travel opportunities, we are establishing an environment conducive for everyone to excel in their careers. We’re looking forward to welcoming the upcoming wave of talented individuals and bringing their unique perspectives, and I send my best wishes to all applicants.”

Jack Mulholland Kinsella, Logistics Graduate at IAG Cargo commented: “Participating in this graduate programme has been an enriching experience. From the onset, I've assumed significant responsibilities, collaborating with professionals from diverse sectors and drawing inspiration from leaders in the business. Each day presents unique problem-solving opportunities which provides an engaging work environment that continuously challenges and motivates me.”        

The programme is based at IAG Cargo’s head office at London Heathrow and offers a competitive salary, in addition to several employee benefits, flexible work arrangements, including discounted flights.

Applications close at the end of January and applicants will hear whether they have been successful in April.

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Find out more about the IAG Cargo Graduate Programme and how to apply here: https://www.iagcargo.com/en/careers/

Airbus reports strong 2023 commercial aircraft orders and deliveries in complex operating environment

Airbus delivered 735 commercial aircraft to 87 customers around the world in 2023, demonstrating strong performance despite a complex operating environment. The Commercial Aircraft business registered 2,319 gross new orders (2,094 net). As a result, its 2023 year end backlog stood at 8,598 aircraft.

“2023 was a landmark year for Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft business with exceptional sales and deliveries on the upper end of our target,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus CEO. "A number of factors came together to help us achieve our goals, including the increased flexibility and capability of our global industrial system, as well as the strong demand from airlines to refresh their fleets with our most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft." Guillaume added: “ This is a remarkable achievement. My thanks goes to our customers, supplier partners and all the Airbus teams who made it happen.”

Airbus delivered 735 commercial aircraft in 2023, an 11% increase on 2022.

2,319 gross orders (2,094 net), including 1,835 A320 Family and 300 A350 Family aircraft.

Demonstrates strong recovery and acceleration for modernising aircraft fleets with latest generation fuel efficient aircraft.

The 2023 year end backlog stands at 8,598 aircraft.

 

“We originally anticipated aviation to recover sometime in the 2023-2025 timeframe, but what we saw in 2023 was, alongside the single-aisle market, widebody return much sooner than expected, and with vigour“, said Christian Scherer, Airbus’ newly appointed CEO, Commercial Aircraft. “A big thumbs up to our commercial and regional teams, and importantly, a big thank you to our customers for their trust and partnership. We have never sold as many A320s or A350s in any given year, not to mention welcoming seven new customers for the A350-1000. Travel is back and there is serious momentum!” Christian added: “I’m proud to say there are now 735 more fuel-efficient Airbus jets flying today, paving the way to our lower carbon future. It’s the orders we win today that will support us in investing in innovative and even more sustainable solutions tomorrow.”

Full aircraft fleet deliveries for 2023
 

	2023	2022
A220 Family	68	53
A320 Family	571	516
A330 Family	32	32
A350 Family	64	60
Total	735	661*

*After a reduction of two aircraft (2 A350-900 AEROFLOT) previously recorded as sold in December 2021 for which a transfer was not possible due to international sanctions against Russia.

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The 2023 full year Financial Results will be disclosed on February 15, 2024.

London Gatwick becomes first international airport to open dedicated electric vehicle charging station - Electric Forecourt

London Gatwick has become the first international airport to open an Electric Forecourt, a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging station, with the new GRIDSERVE facility available for all to use from today.  

The brand-new site has 30 high-power and low-power electric vehicle chargers available via contactless payment - ideal for passengers, staff, local residents, commuters, or business fleets - alongside high-speed Wi-Fi, a lounge area, Costa Coffee, Little Fresh convenience store and an interactive EV experience area. 

All charging bays are powered by 100% net zero energy, with the fastest chargers capable of adding up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes. Visitors can also speak to a GRIDSERVE EV Guru to gain advice on which EV may best suit their needs, and take the opportunity to test drive an EV. 

Bronwen Jones, Development Director, London Gatwick said: “We are proud to be the first international airport to open a GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt®. The charging station has been placed in a strategic location and will be available to millions of passengers, commuters, staff, residents and businesses that pass through the area each year.   

“We are making sustainability part of everything we do here at London Gatwick and we are committed to creating a low-carbon economy by providing new infrastructure that everyone can use, so together we can reduce emissions. As we invest in our long-term, future growth additions such as GRIDSERVE are vital to London Gatwick’s ecosystem.” 

SpiceXpress expands domestic cargo network in partnership with Star Air.....

SpiceXpress, a subsidiary of SpiceJet, has entered into a partnership with Star Air, to manage the belly space capacity for cargo transportation in Star Air's fleet of nine aircraft.

Star Air, operating five Embraer 145 jets and four Embraer 175 jets, will significantly enhance SpiceXpress's domestic network, incorporating nine new destinations: Belagavi, Bhuj, Kalaburagi, Kishangarh, Kolhapur, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Nagpur, and Shivamogga. This collaboration underlines SpiceXpress's commitment to expanding its reach and strengthening the nation's air cargo infrastructure.

SpiceXpress’s domestic network will increase from 39 to 48 destinations helping the company strengthen its Door-to-Door delivery and postal service. The three-year agreement, extendable by mutual consent, establishes a foundation for seamless cooperation between the two companies. 

Jai Singh Sadana, Chief Business Officer, SpiceXpress, said, “This partnership with Star Air marks a significant milestone for SpiceXpress as we broaden our domestic cargo network. The extended reach to these nine destinations aligns with our vision of connecting underserved regions, contributing to economic development, and bolstering the logistics landscape in India."

BOC Aviation's fourth quarter and year ended 31 December 2023 operational transactions.

BOC Aviation Limited has announced its operational transactions for the fourth quarter and year ended 31 December 2023.

Steven Townend, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said, “In 2023 we celebrated our 30th anniversary.  It was a year of record operational performance where we executed our largest ever number of transactions that included 142 lease commitments, the most in any year since our inception. We committed to purchase 95 aircraft, providing the foundation for future balance sheet growth, and we took delivery of 65 aircraft - the most since 2017.  Collections exceeded 100% for a second year running and our aircraft utilisation rate improved to 99% from 96% in 2022, both reflecting the strength of the aviation industry. Looking ahead, with a strong aircraft portfolio and orderbook, we are confident in meeting our airline customers’ needs and maintaining our position as a top five global aircraft operating lessor.”

Transactions Summary 

 

·       A total fleet of 684 aircraft owned, managed and on order1

 

·        An average aircraft age of 4.6 years and an average remaining lease term of 8.1 years for the 426 owned aircraft fleet, both weighted by net book value2

 

·        Managed fleet comprised 34 aircraft

 

·        Order book of 224 aircraft1

 

·        Executed a total of 128 transactions in the fourth quarter of 2023 and a total of 348 in 2023, including:

Commitments in the fourth quarter to purchase 31 aircraft and a total of 95 in 2023

Took delivery of 39 aircraft (excluding one acquired by an airline customer on delivery) in the fourth quarter, and a total of 65 (excluding two aircraft acquired by an airline customer on delivery) in 2023

Sale of 15 owned aircraft in the fourth quarter, which brought the total number of owned aircraft sold during the year to 20 

35 lease commitments in the fourth quarter and a total of 142 for 2023

Turkka Kuusisto appointed CEO of Finnair

Finnair has appointed Turkka Kuusisto as CEO of Finnair and he will start in this role on 11 July 2024 at the latest. Kuusisto joins Finnair from Posti Group Corporation, where he has served as the CEO since 2020. Prior to his CEO role in Posti Group Corporation, Kuusisto served in senior leadership positions in Posti Group Corporation and in Lindorff Group.

”I am happy to welcome Turkka Kuusisto to take the helm of Finnair and drive the next phases of Finnair’s strategy. Finnair has restored its profitability after the historic double crisis, and the company is well positioned to continue to build a sustainable future, offering excellent connections via its Helsinki hub to both Finns and to customers traveling between Europe and Asia, the Middle East, and Americas”, says Sanna Suvanto-Harsaae, Chair of the Board of Directors, Finnair.  

“Turkka brings to Finnair his strong understanding of complex industries and his proven people leadership and strategy skills, which will benefit Finnair as Finnair now moves to the next phase in its strategy”, Suvanto-Harsaae says.  

”Finnair embodies to me Finnish spirit and global connections, and it has a long and unique heritage as a 100-year old airline. I am excited and humble to take on the role of CEO in this iconic company. Working side by side with all Finnair colleagues and carefully listening to our customers, I trust our joint journey will be a successful one”, says Turkka Kuusisto.

Finnair’s current CEO Topi Manner will leave the company on 15 January 2024 to later take on the role of CEO at Elisa Corporation. Jaakko Schildt, Chief Operating Officer of Finnair, will act as an interim CEO between 15 January and the start of the new CEO.  

easyJet launches partnership with Musement to offer customers thousands of fantastic experiences across Europe and beyond

easyJet, Europe’s leading airline, has launched a new partnership with global Tours & Activities business Musement to enable customers to access fantastic excursions, activities and attractions in hundreds of destinations across Europe and beyond, alongside its great value fares.

As part of the partnership, Musement has developed a new Tours & Activities digital platform, which is integrated with the easyJet website and offers customers the opportunity to book a huge variety of local experiences in all easyJet destinations on the easyJet app, after flight confirmation, or via the dedicated site - activities.easyjet.com at any time.

The group’s tour operator and Europe’s fastest growing holiday company, easyJet holidays, launched its partnership with Musement in 2022. Since then, package holiday customers have been able to select from thousands of excursions and activities, across easyJet holidays’ beach and city destinations. The new partnership now offers deals for all easyJet customers, whether they are booking flights or a package holiday.

Russell Braterman, Proposition & Innovation Director at easyJet said:  "We are always looking for ways to make great value travel even easier for our customers with our unrivalled short-haul European network offering over 1000 routes across 35 countries, and by partnering with Musement our customers are able to explore all the best local experiences these fantastic destinations have to offer.”

Nishank Gopalkrishnan, Chief Commercial Officer at Musement said: "Our collaboration with easyJet holidays has been excellent and I am now delighted we will expand this partnership to support the wider easyJet organisation and offer our incredible portfolio of excursions, activities and attraction tickets to all easyJet customers. This partnership cements Musement’s position as the travel industry’s preferred partner for tours and activities.”

Musement's custom selection of excursions, activities and attraction tickets for easyJet guarantees a high level of standards related to quality, health and safety, and sustainability, providing peace of mind and enabling customers to discover the best experiences before and after booking a flight. Tickets for most experiences are paperless, allowing customers to conveniently scan a QR code either at the beginning of the activity or at the venue entrance. Additionally, push notifications serve as valuable reminders for location and timing in the lead-up to the experience.

Whether customers are looking to explore the museums of the Vatican or the Pyramids of Egypt, or whether they're interested in enjoying a catamaran cruise in Santorini, a 4x4 adventure in Madeira, or the thermal baths of a Polish mountain village, the new partnership with Musement will offer something for everyone, all covered by a best price guarantee.

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• Poland – Mountain Village & Thermal Baths, from £66
• Italy – Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, from £54
• Madeira – 4x4 Nun’s Valley & Cabo Girão, from £35

Excursions, activities and attraction tickets are available to book now on the easyJet app, after flight confirmation, or via the dedicated site - activities.easyjet.com at any time.

Oman Air starts January sale.....

It may be time to beat the winter blues with Oman Air's January Sale! With special fares on Business and Economy Class seats across its network, it’s the perfect chance to kick off your 2024 travel plans!

Whether you’re dreaming of sun-drenched shores or the charm of the city, your passport to adventure just got more affordable! Take advantage of incredible discounts to some of the world’s most exciting destinations now.

Sales valid from 15 – 29 January 2024 | Travel valid until 30 March 2024

Offer available on selected Business and Economy Class seats.

Offer applicable for one-way and return flights.

Offer applicable on all destinations on the Oman Air network, excluding the domestic sector.

Blackout dates apply.

Offer does not apply to interline partners and codeshare flights.

Special Business and Economy Class Fares in our January sale (omanair.com)

Oman Air has been named the most punctual airline in the Middle East and Africa for 2023, scoring an outstanding 92.5% On-Time Performance (OTP), the highest among all carriers across all categories. The rankings, published in the 2023 On-Time Performance Review by global aviation analytics leader, Cirium, measured performance data collected from more than 600 sources of real-time flight information. It’s the second consecutive time the Muscat-based airline has taken the top spot, having scored 91.3% during 2022.

In aviation, on-time performance represents a pivotal cornerstone shaping the passenger experience. Flights that are on time mean smoother, less stressful journeys, making it a key differentiator for guest satisfaction. By committing itself to achieving exemplary on-time performance, Oman Air continues to prove its reliability, reduce travel uncertainties, and increase passenger confidence, underscoring its dedication to elevating the overall travel experience.

Airbus Helicopters to expand unmanned aerial system portfolio with acquisition of Aerovel

Airbus Helicopters to expand unmanned aerial system portfolio with acquisition of Aerovel

Airbus Helicopters and Aerovel have signed an agreement regarding the acquisition of Aerovel and its unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor, as part of a strategy to strengthen its portfolio of tactical unmanned solutions. Flexrotor is a small tactical unmanned aerial system designed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions at sea and over land.

"We are looking forward to welcoming Aerovel into the Airbus family. This strategic acquisition aligns with our vision to expand our UAS offering and respond to a growing customer demand worldwide for additional mission capabilities such as manned-unmanned teaming. Aerovel's expertise in autonomous flight technology will undoubtedly complement our UAS development with the VSR700, as well as the work that we have been doing to develop interoperability,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.

"Joining forces with Airbus will allow us to scale innovation, accelerate our mission to advance unmanned aviation, and maintain our unwavering support for the US military and its allies. We are proud to become part of an organisation with a rich legacy of aerospace excellence and we look forward to leveraging our combined strengths to define the future of autonomous systems. It will also be a great tribute to our Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Tad McGeer, who has spent the last 30 years committed to delivering innovative unmanned products,” said Ali Dian, CEO of Aerovel.

The Flexrotor, a modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft with a maximum launch weight of 25 kg, has been designed for ISTAR missions for more than 12-14 hours in a typical operational configuration. It can integrate different types of payloads including an electro-optical system and advanced sensors to suit customers’ unique mission needs. With the ability to autonomously launch and recover  from either land or sea requiring only a 12 by 12 ft. area for launch and recovery, the Flexrotor is ideal for expeditionary missions requiring minimal footprint. Through the support of the US Department of Defense (DoD), and contracted deployment in a variety of maritime security exercises, the Flexrotor is a mission-proven, force multiplier for operations in harsh, high-threat, GPS-denied environments. The Flexrotor can also be used for parapublic missions such as forest fire surveillance (providing firefighters with critical images day or night) and ice navigation (helping guide naval vessels through ice in the Arctic ocean).

Aerovel, based in Bingen, Washington, will remain a US-owned company and continue collaboration with the US DoD under Airbus’ Special Security Agreement (SSA).

The acquisition has been approved by the relevant bodies of both companies. It remains subject to regulatory approvals, as well as other customary conditions. Transaction closing is expected in 2024.

Odys Aviation and Aramex Announce Partnership to Develop Cargo Operations in the United Arab Emirates and Oman

Odys Aviation, a sustainable aviation company building hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft and Aramex, a market-leading provider of express delivery and logistics services to the Middle East and other emerging economies, today announced a partnership to develop cargo operations in the UAE, Oman and further afield in the region. Odys Aviation's state-of-the-art aircraft, designed in multiple configurations for cargo, will be capable of delivering all-electric propulsion for distances up to 320 kilometres and will offer a hybrid-electric range of more than 1,200 kilometres. As a result, flights operated via these aircraft have the potential to reduce carbon emissions on pan-GCC flights by up to 76 per cent and provide a zero-carbon air cargo alternative for routes across the UAE, Oman and beyond.

Under the terms of the partnership, Odys Aviation and Aramex intend to collaborate on the development of autonomous logistics programs which will ultimately introduce cargo flights leveraging Odys Aviation’s cargo aircraft and Aramex’s fleet management capabilities. The first pilot programs will utilize Odys Aviation’s Laila aircraft (22 ft wingspan and 130 lbs payload) and will expand to include the company’s Alta aircraft, a full-scale vehicle with payload capabilities up to one ton. Aramex intends to support pilot training and a test flight program which will demonstrate the movement of cargo between its regional locations. The teams will further work jointly to tailor the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) that will develop Odys Aviation’s aircraft to serve specific local environments. Upon approval from regional regulatory bodies, the two companies intend to launch operations and commercial activities and expand beyond test programs to demonstrable routes and new markets within the GCC.

Saudia Secures 9th Global Position in On-Time Performance Review for 2023

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, ranked 9th among global airlines in the On-Time Performance for the year 2023, according to the annual report by the independent aviation monitoring website Cirium. This follows outstanding performances throughout the year 2023, in which Saudia has secured a place in the top 10 for six consecutive months.

Saudia’s exceptional performance in global OTP rankings is driven by the Saudi Aviation Strategy objectives which aims to turn Saudi Arabia into a leader in the global industry by enhancing the customer experience. The strategy aligns with Saudia’s expansion goals as the airline works towards bringing around 330 million visitors to the Kingdom by 2030. By continuously ranking as one of the top performing airlines, Saudia is working towards its goals of becoming an industry-leading airline and bringing the world to Saudi Arabia.

Transavia France takes delivery of its first A320neo

French low-cost carrier Transavia France, part of the Air France-KLM Group, has taken delivery of its first A320neo, on lease from Avolon, from Airbus manufacturing site in Toulouse. The airline has opted for the Airbus option to have the delivery flight to Paris-Orly powered by a sustainable aviation fuel blend on board.

The new aircraft features 186 seats in a single-class layout. Selected for its outstanding operational efficiency, reduced emissions and comfort, the A320neo will be deployed by Transavia France on its services on its domestic network as well as across its European and Mediterranean markets.

The introduction of its first A320neo aircraft marks the beginning of Transavia France' transition to become an all Airbus operator, powered by efficient A320neo Family aircraft. With its reduced fuel burn and emissions, the A320neo will play a key role in advancing the airline Group's sustainable development goals.

By incorporating new generation CFM International LEAP-1A engines and Sharklets, the A320neo brings a 50% noise footprint reduction and 20% fuel savings and CO2 reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while improving passenger comfort in a wider single-aisle cabin.

The cabin features Airbus’ Airspace XL bins. The larger bins provide 40% more stowage space compared to conventional bins, for a more relaxed boarding. In addition, USB-C ports are available for passengers at each seat, and the latest lighting system enhances the overall passenger experience.

The A320neo Family is the world’s most popular single aisle having won nearly 9,800 orders from nearly 140 customers in all markets.

Air Travel climbs to 99% of 2019 levels reports IATA

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for November 2023 air travel performance indicating that air travel demand topped 99% of 2019 levels.

 

•    Total traffic in November 2023 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 29.7% compared to November 2022. Globally, traffic is now at 99.1% of November 2019 levels.

•    International traffic rose 26.4% versus November 2022. The Asia-Pacific region continued to report the strongest year-over-year results (+63.8%) with all regions showing improvement compared to the prior year. November 2023 international RPKs reached 94.5% of November 2019 levels. 

•    Domestic traffic for November 2023 was up 34.8% compared to November 2022. Total November 2023 domestic traffic was 6.7% above the November 2019 level. Growth was particularly strong in China (+272%) as it recovered from the COVID travel restrictions that were still in place a year ago. US domestic travel, benefitting from strong Thanksgiving holidays demand, reached a new high, expanding +9.1% over November 2019.

“We are moving ever closer to surpassing the 2019 peak year for air travel. Economic headwinds are not deterring people from taking to the skies. International travel remains 5.5% below pre-pandemic levels but that gap is rapidly closing. And domestic markets have been above their pre-pandemic levels continuously since April,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Air passenger market in detail - November 2023

November 2023 (% year-on-year) World share1 RPK ASK PLF (%-pt) PLF (level) Total Market 100.0% 29.7% 28.6% 0.7% 81.8% Africa 2.1% 20.3% 27.1% -4.0% 70.4% Asia Pacific 22.1% 80.1% 71.7% 3.8% 81.4% Europe 30.8% 13.6% 13.5% 0.1% 83.7% Latin America 6.4% 12.0% 9.1% 2.2% 84.4% Middle East 9.8% 18.7% 18.4% 0.2% 77.7% North America 28.8% 10.2% 11.3% -0.8% 82.7%

1% of industry RPKs in 2022

𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗼 𝗿𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗮

London Southend Airport has announced a partnership with Italian airline Aeroitalia, with the addition of a new route to Italy, with more routes to follow. 

From Monday, March 25, 2024, London Southend will offer a six-times weekly Aeroitalia flights to Milan Bergamo, with tickets starting from €79.99 one-way.

The new route will offer a convenient connection to Italy’s fashion hub of Milan, with leisure-friendly morning departure times attracting travellers from both ends of the route.

John Upton, CEO of London Southend Airport, said: "We are delighted to announce this new and exciting collaboration with Aeroitalia, the second largest Italian airline in Italy, bringing near-daily flights to Milan Bergamo. This partnership marks a significant milestone for London Southend Airport, providing our passengers in the east of London and Southeast England with a convenient gateway to the heart of Italian football, fashion and culture in Milan.”

Gaetano Intrieri, CEO of Aeroitalia, shared his enthusiasm about this new initiative. He said: “This initiative is the result of hard work, dedication and commitment from the entire Aeroitalia team. We are determined to continue to improve and expand our operations to always offer you high-quality services. We are confident that this new route will become a bridge between cultures, connecting our beautiful Italian cities with the vibrant energy of London.”

Serving close to 2.3 million passengers in 2019, London Southend offered services to around 40 domestic and European cities. The terminal has its own railway station, less than 100 paces from the main entrance, with up to six trains an hour at peak times to central London, taking just 52 minutes to Liverpool Street and 43 minutes from Stratford. All airport car parks are located minutes from the terminal entrance. 

Special discount limited time offerSave up to 30% now. 
 

World's First Hydrogen VTOL Aircraft... Sirius Jet

Swiss aviation startup Sirius Aviation AG, proudly unveils the revolutionary Sirius Jet – the world's first hydrogen-powered Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft; crafted and designed in collaboration with BMW's Designworks and Sauber Group. This marks a major milestone in sustainable aviation and highlights Sirius Aviation AG's steadfast commitment to innovation, sustainability, and safety.

The Sirius Jet, an aviation game-changer, is a high-performance, zero-emission VTOL aircraft, propelled by a hydrogen-electric propulsion system. Leveraging jet aerodynamics with airplane and helicopter versatility, it achieves extended flight distances, impressive speeds, and high altitudes at near-silent levels. The Sirius Jet redfines excellence with unmatched cutting-edge technology, unique design, and precision engineering, setting a new industry standard.

In 2025, the Sirius Jet will take flight in two versions: Sirius Business Jet, tailored to private jet needs, and Sirius Millennium Jet, crafted for commercial aviation. A revolutionary leap that will reshape the global transportation industry.

Sirius Jet Specifications: 

Sirius Business Jet: A zero-emission, hydrogen-powered VTOL business jet, featuring an 1150-mile flight range, cruise speed of 323 mph, altitude capability of 30,000 feet, ultra-quiet noise levels of 60dBa, and accommodates 3 passengers.

Sirius Millenium Jet: A zero-emission, hydrogen-powered VTOL commercial aircraft, offering a 650-mile flight range, cruise speed of 323 mph, altitude capability of 30,000 feet, sound footprint of 60dBa, and accommodates up to 5 passengers.

Sirius Aviation AG proudly announces partnerships with global leaders BMW Group's DesignWorks, Sauber Group, renowned for its Formula 1 excellence, along with Alfleth Engineering AG, and ALD Group. This powerful collaboration sets a pioneering benchmark for sustainable, efficient, and high-performance aviation.

On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, Sirius Aviation AG will host a monumental event at Payerne Airport in Switzerland, unveiling the aircraft's groundbreaking Hydrogen-Electric Ducted Fan Propulsion System with the first public inaugural ignition. The event will feature a press conference and insightful remarks from esteemed global leaders.

Avolon delivers first A320neo to Transavia.

Avolon, a leading global aviation finance company, has completed the delivery of the first A320neo in Transavia France’s fleet, as part of a leasing agreement with the French low-cost subsidiary of the Air France-KLM Group.

The delivery was celebrated today at a ceremony at the Airbus Delivery Centre in Toulouse. The new aircraft will support Transavia France’s fleet renewal strategy as it transitions to an all A320neo family fleet, delivering 20% lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation Airbus narrowbody aircraft, and 50% noise reduction.

This is Avolon’s first lease agreement with Transavia France, building on the existing relationship with Air France-KLM Group.

Avolon has 105 A320neo family aircraft in its fleet, with a further 287 on order.

The delivery flight is powered by a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blend.

Andy Cronin, CEO of Avolon, commented:  “We welcome Transavia France as a new customer and we are delighted to be able to celebrate the delivery of their first A320neo as part of their fleet renewal strategy. Building on our relationship with the Air France-KLM Group, we look forward to supporting this long-term partnership. Avolon begins 2024 with an orderbook of 458 aircraft which will support customers’ replacement and fleet expansion plans into the next decade.”   Avolon is a leading global aviation finance company connecting capital with customers to drive the transformation of aviation and the economic and social benefits of global travel. 

easyJet Fearless Flyer course returns for 2024

Winter 2024 courses to help aerophobics overcome their fear of flying now on sale with experience flights at five UK airports starting on 27 January

VIP packages including a dedicated Captain to guide you through the experience flight available at London Gatwick on 2 March

Since 2012 nearly 12,000 phobics have taken to the skies after successfully completing the course, with the programme achieving over 95% success rate

easyJet is bringing its Fearless Flyer course back for winter 2024, to help nervous flyers take control and overcome their fears. With courses starting from 27th January and taking place in Manchester, London Luton, Bristol, Belfast and London Gatwick, customers have a choice of five airports across the UK to book their experience flight.

Since 2012 nearly 12,000 phobics have taken to the skies after successfully completing the Fearless Flyer course, with the programme achieving over 95% success rate and in March 2023, easyJet celebrated its 150th course milestone.

Fearless Flyer continues to be one of the best-priced aerophobia courses in the UK, starting at just £89 per person and the winter 2024 schedule provides options across the UK from the end of January until beginning of March.

easyJet’s Fearless Flyer course is divided into three main parts:

A virtual ground course, where top phobia expert Lawrence Leyton and a senior easyJet captain will explain the unfamiliar sounds and sensations customers feel onboard an aircraft and teach them a unique set of mind techniques to manage their nerves. This session lasts approximately two and a half hours. 

A pre-flight one-hour ‘Meet the Team’ online Zoom session, where participants will be walked through the airport experience and what to expect. There will also be a participant Q&A session where phobia expert Lawrence Leyton and an easyJet pilot will answer any last-minute questions.

And lastly, a special one-hour experience flight from the course airport, where customers put their new skills to the test whilst listening to a live commentary of the flight from the Fearless Flyer team.

In addition to the standard course, a VIP course is also on offer at London Gatwick on 2nd March which features extra exclusive benefits including a dedicated Captain who will guide you through the experience flight day, a pre-flight private video call with a pilot and the Fearless Flyer team, VIP check-in process, security and boarding for the experience flight, guaranteed upfront seats, and lifetime access to additional course materials.

A limited number of spaces on the courses are now available at fearlessflyer.easyjet.com 

Captain Chris Foster, Fearless Flyer Lead Pilot at easyJet, said:  “We’re delighted to be relaunching our renowned Fearless Flyer course for 2024 with winter courses now available to book across the UK.

The course is suitable for anyone who is a nervous flyer, whether they experience slight anxiety or whether they have never flown before and with a success rate of more than 95%, we would encourage anyone wishing to overcome their fear to take part.”

Philippine Airlines and its affiliate carrier, PAL Express, have embarked on the next phase of their journey to deploy IBS Software's iFly Staff travel solution.

                        Philippine Airlines and its affiliate carrier, PAL Express, have embarked on the next phase of their journey to deploy IBS Software's iFly Staff travel solution.

Built to improve travel operational efficiency for airline employee travellers, iFly Staff is a SaaS solution designed to automate the end-to-end business and leisure travel booking process for airline employees. The partnership with iFly Staff enables PAL and PALex employees, dependents and retirees to plan, book and manage their travel requirements for leisure and business trips via multiple channels and devices.

PAL is the first Southeast Asian SaaS customer of IBS Software and the fourth from the Asia-Pacific region.

Since the go-live, iFly Staff has significantly improved the travel experiences of PAL employees by replacing tedious paper-based manual processes with self-service booking capability, reducing staff travel booking time from days to minutes. Additional benefits include a reduction in general office backlogs, enhanced policy and security compliance, and the facilitation of multiple payment options.

Jo-Ann Maluenda, Vice President of Human Capital at PAL, remarks: "PAL's primary objective is to provide our valued employees, their families, and loyal PAL retirees with a smoother, more streamlined, and user-friendly process for availing of their employee travel benefits. With iFly Staff, our employees can now book their trips anytime, anywhere with just a few clicks. We partnered with IBS Software to achieve end-to-end automation of our employee travel booking and administrative processes, introducing industry-best practices without compromising PAL-specific processes. Our PAL and PAL Express employees work diligently to deliver exceptional service to our customers worldwide, and they deserve a flexible and user-friendly travel experience. We also anticipate substantial savings in back-office work."

Vijay R Chakravarthy, VP & Head of iFly Staff at IBS Software, comments: "We are delighted to have PAL as our first Southeast Asian customer on board iFly Staff. It is significant that PAL has achieved the objectives of this transformation journey and is starting to reap the benefits. We look forward to working closely with stakeholders to enhance experiences and maximize the potential of the solution deployed at PAL."