Volaris Reports Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter 2023: Net Income of USD $112 million

 Volaris, the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) serving Mexico, the United States, Central, and South America, has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 20231.

                

Fourth Quarter 2023 Highlights

(All figures are reported in U.S. dollars and compared to 4Q 2022 unless otherwise noted)

Net income of $112 million. Earnings per share of $0.10 and earnings per ADS of $0.97 cents.

Total operating revenues of $899 million, a 10% increase.

Total revenue per available seat mile (TRASM) increased 11% to $9.56 cents.

Available seat miles (ASMs) decreased 1.1% to 9.4 billion.

Total operating expenses of $735 million, representing 82% of total operating revenue.

Total operating expenses per available seat mile (CASM) decreased 2.3% to $7.81 cents.

Average economic fuel cost decreased 16% to $3.13 per gallon.

CASM ex fuel increased 11% to $4.86 cents.

EBITDAR of $281 million, a 35% increase.

EBITDAR margin was 31.3%, an increase of 6.0 percentage points.

Total cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and short-term investments totaled $789 million, representing 24% of the last twelve months’ total operating revenue.

Net debt-to-LTM EBITDAR2 ratio decreased to 3.4x, compared to 3.9x in 2022.

Enrique Beltranena, President & Chief Executive Officer, said: “Throughout 2023, we gained valuable lessons when resizing the operations, capitalizing on strong demand while adjusting our network, and turned a very complex situation into a solid financial result for the fourth quarter. We recorded our highest-ever historical quarterly TRASM and posted a net income of $112 million. Our performance demonstrated resilience in the face of the challenges encountered throughout the year, such as the extended FAA downgrade of Mexico to CAT 2, Pratt & Whitney's engine preventive accelerated inspections, and slot reductions at the Mexico City International Airport. Our proactive strategies and mitigation plan have proven effective.

Looking ahead, 2024 holds promise, as our booking curves and total unit revenues indicate continuing favorable trends aligned with our guidance. We expect that our focus on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and prudent capacity management will continue to drive profitability.”

Full Year 2023 Highlights3

(All figures are reported in U.S. dollars and compared to FY 2022 unless otherwise noted)

Net income of $8 million. Earnings per share of $0.01 and earnings per ADS of $0.07.

Total operating revenues of $3,259 million, a 14% increase.

Total revenue per available seat mile (TRASM) increased 3.8% to $8.38 cents.

Available seat miles (ASMs) increased 10% to 38.9 billion.

Total operating expenses of $3,036 million, representing 93% of total operating revenue.

Total operating expenses per available seat mile (CASM) decreased 1.7% to $7.81 cents.

Average economic fuel cost decreased 18% to $3.11 per gallon.

CASM ex fuel increased 13% to $4.81 cents.

EBITDAR of $823 million, a 40% increase.

EBITDAR margin was 25.2%, an increase of 4.7 percentage points.

Robinson Helicopter shows off global utilization of Robinson Helicopters in diverse missions

Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), a global leader in civilian rotorcraft, releases the first two episodes in its new video series, ‘Climb Higher,’ highlighting how customers and operators around the world utilize Robinson helicopters for their unique missions. The series features the indispensable role that Robinson helicopters play in bridging the gaps between people, places, and possibilities, enabling operators to accomplish a wide range of missions with unparalleled accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness.

The ‘Climb Higher’ video series provides viewers with an exclusive look at how operators do more with Robinson helicopters. The first episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at Quantum Helicopters in Chandler, Arizona, where a generation of rotorcraft pilots learn to fly on Robinson R22s. The R22, renowned for providing critical skills and a universal foundation for a career in aviation, serves as a testament to Robinson Helicopter's commitment to reliability, accessibility, and longevity.

"At Robinson Helicopter, we are dedicated to designing and building helicopters that are not only reliable and accessible but also capable of meeting the diverse needs and strenuous operating tempo of our customers worldwide," said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. "Through this new video series, we are able to share stories of the unique ways in which Robinson helicopters empower operators around the world to tackle tough jobs and accomplish their missions affordably and reliably."

The second video highlights news operations in Sao Paulo and how the traffic-congested city of 12.3 million relies on a Robinson helicopter to provide the news from the sky. While Robinson helicopters are primarily known for their use in training and agriculture, news agencies rely on Robinson for news gathering due to their cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and reliability.

From flight training to agriculture and law enforcement to news reporting, Robinson helicopters have become synonymous with reliability, accessibility, and versatility, making them the best-selling civil rotorcraft in the world. Robinson Helicopter will share additional videos from Australia and around the world later this year, sharing how operators around the world achieve more with Robinson. 

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

East Midlands Airport upgrading taxiways and runway....

Most people visiting East Midlands Airport (EMA) won’t give a second thought to its runway and taxiways, but that doesn’t make them any less important for the smooth and safe running of operations.

  

That’s why EMA is carrying out upgrades to a section of its airfield that is the equivalent of 100 football pitches of tarmac, as part of its £120m investment programme over the next five years.

A dedicated team of airfield engineers, designers, project managers and contractors work tirelessly all year round to ensure these crucial surfaces are maintained to the highest standards. These projects are among the largest, most intensive and potentially disruptive works that airports undertake. They are meticulously planned to ensure little or no disruption to passengers and cargo operators at the airport, using short periods of closures for contractors to carry out the work.

The latest work in the improvement programme has been completed on a section used by cargo aircraft known as Taxiway Bravo, which was first laid using large concrete slabs 24 years ago. These have become due for replacement over time due to continuous use and exposure to the elements. Cargo operations at EMA have been growing, as has the size and weight of cargo planes, prompting the need to replace 400 tonnes of the concrete slabs with a more flexible asphalt surface.

Future UK military helicopter reaches next competition stage

The next stage of the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) Programme has been announced by the Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge.

Bids open for New Medium Helicopter contract, as it moves to the Invitation to Negotiate phase

The new helicopter model will support Defence operations around the globe

The New Medium Helicopter will deliver up to five rotary wing requirements

The next stage of the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) Programme has been announced by the Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge this week.

The NMH Programme is an initiative to acquire a modern medium-lift support helicopter, which will deliver up to five rotary wing requirements using a single aircraft-type. This means that the platform will be able to undertake Defence tasks that were previously undertaken by up to five different aircraft types, streamlining our capabilities. This will improve efficiency and operational flexibility, positively impacting ongoing and future UK operational capability.

Once in service, it will provide the Armed Forces with a new medium lift aircraft capable of operating in all environments in support of a broad spectrum of Defence tasks, from warfighting to humanitarian efforts and operations around the world.

It was announced at the International Military Helicopter conference in London today that the Invitation to Negotiate has been released, meaning the three NMH candidate suppliers - Airbus Helicopters UK, Leonardo Helicopters UK and Lockheed Martin UK - will now compile their bids to be evaluated by the Ministry of Defence to determine the winning bidder.

The competition will be managed by Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and proposals will be evaluated through 2025 when, subject to Government approvals, a contract award is anticipated.

Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge said:  "The New Medium Helicopter will provide essential support to our military operations, and we’re pleased to have reached this next important stage of the programme.

The programme’s competition includes essential criteria that are key to securing vital rotary wing Operational Independence, allowing us to respond swiftly to emerging threats in a highly contested world."

The NMH competition will include essential industrial considerations, spanning design, production, manufacture and importantly, export potential. This means that the New Medium Helicopter contract will secure the vital operational independence we require, as well as investing in UK skills for the long-term and demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to the Defence & Security Industrial Strategy.

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

Qatar Airways fan packages for the 2024 F1 season.....

 Fan packages for the Formula 1 2024 Season

Qatar Airways is the Global Partner and Official Airline of F1, and as such, in partnership with Qatar Airways Holidays, has produced some top-quality fan packages for the upcoming FIA Formula One World Championship™. The packages allow fans travelling from more than 40 countries to be up close to high-octane action and enjoy unique experiences.

From the beginning to end of their journey, the packages are designed for fans to enjoy a seamless motorsport extravaganza, with the inclusion of return flights, hotel accommodation, F1® Paddock Club or Grandstand race tickets, and return airport transfers for all global races (excluding Qatar). 

Qatar Airways Holidays Senior Vice President, Steven Reynolds said: “We are thrilled to once again provide our F1 Fan Packages to motorsport enthusiasts around the world, offering our passengers an unparalleled experience to witness the adrenaline-fuelled excitement of F1. We have worked hard to create these affordable packages that offer unbeatable value and look forward to helping fans travel to races globally, for what promises to be yet another blockbuster F1 calendar.”

 

There are two types of packages available

 

Paddock Club™ package (available in all race cities) inclusions

One of the best spots to watch the action, offering world-class cuisine and free-flowing beverages, the F1® Paddock Club™ is the pinnacle of F1® hospitality.

 

•    Return flights with Qatar Airways

•    Hotel stay in any preferred hotel

•    Return airport transfers

•    Paddock Club™ tickets including all the exciting experiences from guided track tours and pit lane walks to driver meet and greets and free-flowing beverages

•    Savings of up to 20% on this package compared to buying flights, hotels and tickets separately

•    Earn Avios and Qpoints on the package, in addition to earning on the flights

•    Book packages using Cash + Avios

 

Visit here for more details and to book 

Grandstand package (available for the Qatar race only)

Available at the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024, experience the race action from various vantage points along the circuit from the Main Grandstand, T16 Grandstand or the North Grandstand.

 

•    Return flights with Qatar Airways

•    Hotel stay in any preferred hotel in Qatar

•    Grandstand tickets (Main Grandstand, North Grandstand, T16 Grandstand)

•    Earn Avios and Qpoints on the package, in addition to earning on the flights

•    Book packages using Cash + Avios

 

Book soon, packages are selling out fast. 

Visit here for more details and to book 

Newest Four Seasons Resort in Mexico Will Welcome Guests to Cabo’s Famous Golden Corridor Beginning May 1, 2024

Tucked into a Riviera-style village, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol embodies the essence of Mexican charm while embracing the glamour of modern luxury.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is open for reservations and will begin welcoming guests as of May 1, 2024. Ideally located on the stunning southern coast of the Baja in the heart of the Los Cabos Golden Corridor, the luxury resort community of Cabo Del Sol is home to a vibrant, Riviera-style village that includes the new Four Seasons Resort and Residences.

“As we expand our portfolio in the most sought-after vacation destinations around the world, Cabo San Lucas has long been on our list, and we are thrilled to be opening a brand new Four Seasons experience that beautifully complements our existing resort on the more remote East Cape of Los Cabos,” says Antoine Chahwan, President, Hotel Operations - Americas.  “With this project, guests will enjoy all that this thriving scene has to offer, paired with Four Seasons hospitality and heart that they have come to love in Mexico and beyond.”

Designed to welcome guests with the warm embrace of a long-awaited homecoming, the modern hacienda is inspired by Pueblos Mágicos - Mexican towns known for their enchanting qualities – in bringing together local craftsmanship, art, music and food.  The Resort offers 96 expansive guest rooms, casitas, suites, and villas plus 61 residences, villas, and estates ranging from 79 square metres (847 square feet) to 590 square metres (6374 square feet) – all with sparkling views of the Sea of Cortez, where whales visit annually November to April. With clean lines and open, airy spaces, the architecture and design seamlessly blend traditional Mexican influences with contemporary luxury. All accommodations feature retractable glass doors that bring the outdoors in, as well as private terraces. Many suites also include private plunge pools and outdoor showers.  

Just 30 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and 15 minutes from Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL), Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is mere minutes away from Cabo’s famous shopping, dining, nightlife and sightseeing. 

AirAsia contributes to strengthening of Malaysia-India relations with extensive connectivity between both countries

AirAsia continues to enhance seamless and affordable air travel between Malaysia and India with 14 and counting routes group wide ‒ with plans underway to grow its network all across India. 

This was highlighted in an exclusive roundtable discussion in Chennai, led by AirAsia’s Chief of Airport & Customer Experience, Mr Kesavan Sivanandam, who was joined by Mr. Saravana Kumar Kumaravasagam, Consul General of Malaysia in Chennai, Mr Razaidi Abd. Rahim, Director of South India and Sri Lanka of Tourism Malaysia, together with over 20 media members from both countries. 

AirAsia’s robust network of destinations has enabled more than 5 million guests to fly between India, Malaysia and beyond in the last six years alone, and this figure has seen a spike following the government's announcement of visa-free entry for Indian citizens visiting Malaysia. 

Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited commented: “We are proud to reaffirm our steadfast commitment in our mission to democratise air travel by making it accessible to a broader audience in one of our biggest markets to date ‒ India. AirAsia believes in making the dream of flying a reality for everyone and our enhanced connectivity to India is a testament to our dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that air travel is within reach for people from all walks of life. More than two decades ago, AirAsia started our humble journey of pioneering low-cost travel in the region, back at a time when such a concept was a dream many thought was not possible. And here we are today, flying to several routes in India from major hubs and counting. 

Cathay to offer mileage program and shopping discounts through Shinsegae Duty-Free Shop

Enjoy an elevated shopping experience with Cathay

Cathay Pacific Airways announced Cathay members can earn miles and enjoy shopping benefits through Shinsegae Duty Free from 20 February 2024.

Cathay has signed a business agreement with Shinsegae Duty-Free Shop last December. With the agreement, Cathay members can earn Asia Miles when making purchase at Shinsegae Duty Free. Customers will earn 1 Asia Miles for every KRW1,000 spent, up to a maximum of 500 miles per month. ​ Mileages earned can also be redeemed at any of Cathay's 800 partners worldwide.

From now until 31 July 2024, Cathay members are eligible for a complimentary 1-year upgrade to Shinsegae Duty-Free Gold Membership and receive up to 15% off purchases. Furthermore, Non-Korean Cathay members can enjoy special discounts, including an e-voucher with a shopping allowance and various coupons to spend at Shinsegae Duty Free, worth up to KRW470,000.

All passengers travelling to Korea on Cathay Pacific Airways, even before becoming a Cathay member, will receive a separate e-voucher with a shopping allowance of up to KRW 50,000 at Shinsegae Duty Free offline stores.

Cathay said: “The collaboration with Shinsegae Duty Free is a step forward in elevating the shopping experience for Cathay members. ​ As a premium travel lifestyle brand, we look forward to developing more lifestyle partnerships around the world to bring more rewards and exciting offers to our members.”

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

Air Lease Corporation Announces Lease Placement of Three New Boeing 787 Aircraft with Thai Airways International

Air Lease Corporation announced long-term lease agreements for three new Boeing 787-9 aircraft with Thai Airways International. These three Dreamliner aircraft are confirmed to be delivered to the Thai carrier in 2025 from ALC’s order book with Boeing.

“We are pleased to announce this transaction for three new Boeing 787-9 aircraft with new customer, Thai Airways International,” said Steven F. Udvar-Házy, Executive Chairman of Air Lease Corporation. “ALC is honored to add these three Dreamliner aircraft to Thai Airways’ growing widebody fleet and we look forward to a long-term relationship with the airline.”

“These new state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9s will be utilized on flights to Europe, Australia and Intra-Asia to strengthen Thai Airways’ global network,” added Chi Yan, Senior Vice President of Air Lease Corporation.

“We are delighted to commence this new partnership with ALC, with the addition of three Boeing 787-9s to Thai Airways’ fleet. The incorporation of these aircraft underscores our dedication to fleet modernization and delivering exceptional comfort and efficiency to our passengers. Thai Airways International is thrilled to further strengthen our relationship with such an industry-leading partner,” said Chai Eamsiri, CEO of Thai Airways International.

Sentient Jet continues its commitment to sustainability

At no cost to Card Owners, the industry leader has invested millions of dollars to offset over 1,339,235 metric tons of CO2 emissions since the program launched in 2021 with millions more earmarked for future programs

Sentient Jet, leading private aviation company and inventor of the jet card category, continues to prove its strong commitment to sustainability through consistency and transparency. The company launched its emissions-neutral sustainability program in 2021, whereby all flights are offset by 300% at no cost to Card Owners, and since then, has offset over 1,339,235 metric tons of CO2 - the largest amount ever achieved by a jet card provider.

“For 25 years, Sentient jet has led innovation in the private aviation industry, looking for new ways to provide a frictionless experience for its Card Owners from pre-booking to post-flight,” said Andrew Collins, Co-CEO of Flexjet, Sentient Jet’s parent company. “Sustainability is a priority across all industries, and the private aviation industry has a clear role to play in the conversation. Consistent with our history as industry innovators, we saw an opportunity to lead growth in this category and continue to be the most thoughtful way to fly.”

Last April, all invoices began to include an individual calculation of offsets, allowing individuals and companies to track their emissions levels directly on invoices in addition to the Sentient Jet app. Alan Walsh, Senior Vice President of Business Operations at Sentient Jet commented: “As the private aviation industry moves towards increased transparency and more candid discussions around sustainability, it became crucial for us to begin including offset calculations so Card Owners and companies can better track their emission levels. Since implementing this feature to our sustainability program last April, we’ve been thrilled by the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our Card Owners.”

Through its partnership with environmental leader 4AIR, the first and only rating system focused on comprehensive sustainability in private aviation, Sentient Jet’s carbon offset program goes beyond traditional aviation sustainability programs by offsetting all aviation emissions, including water vapor, aerosols, and nitrous oxide, which together account for two thirds of emissions an aircraft produces when flying. Sentient Jet’s total emission offsets since the program’s inception is equivalent to:

260K+ homes electricity use for one year

162B+ smartphones charged

22M+ tree seedlings grown for 10 years (2.2M+ seedlings per year)

ATSG Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2023 Results

Air Transport Services Group, the leading provider of medium wide-body freighter aircraft leasing, contracted air transportation, and related services, today reported consolidated financial results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2023. Those results, as compared with the same periods in 2022, were as follows:

Fourth Quarter Results

• Revenues $517 million, down 3%
• GAAP Loss per Share (basic) from Continuing Operations $0.24, down $0.82
• GAAP Pretax Loss from Continuing Operations $15.6 million, including $24.4 million non-cash settlement expense associated with the partial termination of a pension plan
• Adjusted Pretax* Earnings $19.8 million, down 69%
• Adjusted EPS* $0.18, down $0.35
• Adjusted EBITDA* $129.9 million, down 20%

Full Year 2023 Results

• Revenues $2.1 billion, up 1%
• GAAP EPS (basic) from Continuing Operations $0.87, down $1.80
• GAAP Pretax Earnings from Continuing Operations $84.2 million, including $24.4 million non-cash pension settlement expense
• Adjusted Pretax Earnings* $146.7 million, down 44%
• Adjusted EPS* $1.46, down $0.82 or 36%
• Adjusted EBITDA* $562 million, down 12%
• GAAP Operating Cash Flows $654 million, up 39% and Adjusted Free Cash Flow* $435 million, up 52%

Joe Hete, chairman and chief executive officer of ATSG, said, "As expected, the fourth quarter saw lower demand in our leasing segment and reduced demand in our passenger airline operations. Flying for the U.S. military decreased throughout the quarter, and fewer leased Boeing 767-200 freighters in service continued to affect results at our leasing segment. Despite challenges in the second half of 2023, we converted and leased thirteen aircraft, including our first three Airbus A321-200 freighters. We have substantially reduced our capital spending plans, and now expect to generate positive cash flow in 2024."

2023 Operating Highlights

• Ten more dry leases of newly converted Boeing 767-300 freighters, plus dry leases of three newly converted A321-200 freighters. One of those newly converted 767-300 freighters is operated by an ATSG cargo airline under a Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (CMI) agreement.
• Three more customer-provided 767-300 freighters were subleased to and operated by an ATSG cargo airline during 2023, for a total of sixteen such aircraft in the fleet at the end of the year.

2023 Financial Highlights

• Revenue of $2.1 billion in 2023, an increase of $25 million from 2022, due primarily to a full year of contributions from six new leases of 767-300s made in 2022, as well as partial-year contributions from 2023 leases of the ten newly converted 767-300 freighters and three newly converted A321-200 freighters.
• $562 million in Adjusted EBITDA for 2023, down $79 million. Weaker performance in our airline operations and lower leasing segment results attributable to the 767-200 freighter fleet more than offset the benefits of newly converted 767-300 freighter leases. The decline in Adjusted EBITDA from the 767-200 freighter aircraft leases and related engines was approximately $33 million.
• Growth investments of $574 million. These investments supported leased freighter deployments in 2023, and those we aim to deploy in 2024 and 2025.
• Repurchases of 7.4 million ATSG common shares in 2023. Shares repurchased since October 2022 represent 13% of the 74 million shares outstanding at the beginning of 2022.
• Secured $400 million of additional debt capital via a new six-year convertible bond offering; proceeds were used primarily to retire other existing debt and repurchase shares.

Qatar Airways Holidays launches special fan packages for the Formula 1 2024 Season

 Fan packages for the Formula 1 2024 Season

Qatar Airways is the Global Partner and Official Airline of F1, and as such, in partnership with Qatar Airways Holidays, has produced some top-quality fan packages for the upcoming FIA Formula One World Championship™. The packages allow fans travelling from more than 40 countries to be up close to high-octane action and enjoy unique experiences.

From the beginning to end of their journey, the packages are designed for fans to enjoy a seamless motorsport extravaganza, with the inclusion of return flights, hotel accommodation, F1® Paddock Club or Grandstand race tickets, and return airport transfers for all global races (excluding Qatar). 

Qatar Airways Holidays Senior Vice President, Steven Reynolds said: “We are thrilled to once again provide our F1 Fan Packages to motorsport enthusiasts around the world, offering our passengers an unparalleled experience to witness the adrenaline-fuelled excitement of F1. We have worked hard to create these affordable packages that offer unbeatable value and look forward to helping fans travel to races globally, for what promises to be yet another blockbuster F1 calendar.”

 

There are two types of packages available

 

Paddock Club™ package (available in all race cities) inclusions

One of the best spots to watch the action, offering world-class cuisine and free-flowing beverages, the F1® Paddock Club™ is the pinnacle of F1® hospitality.

 

•    Return flights with Qatar Airways

•    Hotel stay in any preferred hotel

•    Return airport transfers

•    Paddock Club™ tickets including all the exciting experiences from guided track tours and pit lane walks to driver meet and greets and free-flowing beverages

•    Savings of up to 20% on this package compared to buying flights, hotels and tickets separately

•    Earn Avios and Qpoints on the package, in addition to earning on the flights

•    Book packages using Cash + Avios

 

Visit here for more details and to book 

Grandstand package (available for the Qatar race only)

Available at the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024, experience the race action from various vantage points along the circuit from the Main Grandstand, T16 Grandstand or the North Grandstand.

 

•    Return flights with Qatar Airways

•    Hotel stay in any preferred hotel in Qatar

•    Grandstand tickets (Main Grandstand, North Grandstand, T16 Grandstand)

•    Earn Avios and Qpoints on the package, in addition to earning on the flights

•    Book packages using Cash + Avios

 

Book soon, packages are selling out fast. 

Visit here for more details and to book 

Ukrainian pilots learn to fly F-16 Fighter jets following basic training in the UK

The first cohort of Ukrainian pilots to receive training from the Royal Air Force are now learning to fly F-16 fighter jets, having completed a basic programme of training in the UK. 

The RAF began delivering flying and English language training in August as part of the UK contribution to the international Air Capability Coalition for Ukraine, which will see allies and partners working together to bolster Ukraine’s air capabilities.

The group was formed of six experienced Ukrainian combat fighter pilots who received aviation-specific English language training to increase their ability to engage with coalition training and support.

A further ten Ukrainian trainee pilots took part in the language training but remain in the UK to continue with practical elementary flight training, as well as important skills such as aviation medicine and centrifuge training.

“Combined with training from the world-leading RAF, this is a significant step forward from Ukraine’s current Soviet-era capabilities."

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said, “I am proud of the support the Royal Air Force is providing to the next generation of Ukraine’s combat air pilots and ground crew, who will be the first line of defence in protecting Ukraine’s skies. The UK has been instrumental in building Ukraine’s air defences since Putin launched his full-scale invasion, providing hundreds of missiles and munitions, as well as radar and weapons systems.

Grant Shapps continued: "While Ukraine was highly vulnerable to attack from Russian aircraft, drones, and missiles in the early months of the invasion – with support from the UK and our allies, its Armed Forces are now able to intercept and destroy the overwhelming majority of incoming ordinance – protecting their civilian population and vital infrastructure.

Together we’re now going further by ensuring Ukraine has a credible air force in the future, formed around the highly capable fourth-generation F-16 fighter jet."

The programme is designed to give trainee pilots the skills required to advance to the next phase of training on fighter jets with partner nations and to bring future Ukrainian pilots closer to a NATO standard approach to flying.

These young students are highly motivated and very capable. It is a privilege to be part of the training programme for Ukraine.”

Air New Zealand has announced earnings before taxation of $185 million for the first half of the 2024 financial year.

Air New Zealand has announced earnings before taxation of $185 million for the first half of the 2024 financial year.

Key points

Earnings before taxation of $185 million

Passenger revenue of $3.1 billion driven by a significant ramp-up in capacity across the international network

Airline is currently reviewing pricing and capacity to reflect ongoing inflation pressures

Unimputed ordinary interim dividend of 2.0 cents per share declared

Significant improvement in onboard experience, reliability and customer response times

Tougher forward trading environment. Earnings before taxation for the 2024 financial year now expected to be in the range of $200 million to $240 million, including $20 million of currently assumed additional Covid-related credit breakage

Net profit after taxation was $129 million. This is an expected reduction on the comparable period last year when the airline recorded one of its highest-ever results following the rapid return of air travel as New Zealand’s borders reopened.

Based on the airline’s balance sheet strength and the result announced today, Air New Zealand shareholders will receive an unimputed interim dividend of 2.0 cents per share. The dividend will be paid on 21 March, to shareholders on record as at 8 March. This equates to a payout ratio of 41 percent.

Passenger revenue of $3.1 billion was up 21 percent, driven by a significant ramp-up in capacity across the international network. Demand was stable in most markets, but signs of softness in domestic corporate and Government demand was experienced from September. Overall capacity was up 29 percent on the comparative six-month period. Operating costs, including fuel, increased 21 percent due to a substantial increase in long-haul flying this year.

Inflationary pressures also continue to be felt. Non-fuel operating costs have increased around 5 percent or $100 million due to price inflation, which is on top of an increase totalling 15 to 20 percent across the last four years. The cumulative effect of these increases is having a significant impact on the cost of providing air services, including on the domestic network, and the airline is currently reviewing fares and capacity to better reflect ongoing cost pressure. 

RAF Aviators begin Protector Technician course

Aviators from 31 Squadron have commenced their Protector RG Mk 1 Technician training at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. Desert Horizons facility in California, USA.

This is the second Protector Technician course for 31 Squadron personnel. It is run over 14 weeks and comprises academic and practical activity, taking Mechanical, Avionics and Weapons NCO technicians into a single technician trade.

This ensures they can maintain the innovative Protector RG Mk 1 Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS). On completion of their training, they'll become a vital part of Protector UK testing and evaluation, as part of the growing 31 Squadron – the first Protector squadron.

Squadron Leader Douglas, Senior Engineering Officer, 31 Squadron commented: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the team to develop through training with our partners in General Atomics. These cross-skilled technicians are at the spearhead of technical professions in the RAF. They will be integral to the introduction of a game-changing RPAS capability to UK Defence.”   

Equipped with a suite of advanced equipment and precision strike weapons, Protector will provide critical armed surveillance capability and will be able to deploy against potential adversaries around the globe. The aircraft will also be able to fly in busy unsegregated airspace thanks to ‘detect and avoid’ technology with a potential endurance of over 30 hours.

The UK is investing in 16 Protector RG Mk 1 for the RAF. Capable of operating anywhere in the world, RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire will be the home of the Force, the site of launch and recovery to support domestic training, and command and control for overseas operations.

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

KLM announces 2024 summer schedule

KLM will serve 155 destinations this summer; 92 in Europe and 63 intercontinental. KLM will increase available seat capacity by around 7% compared to the summer of 2023, almost matching pre-Covid levels. The summer schedule starts on 31 March 2024 and runs through 26 October 2024.

KLM will increase flight frequency to various intercontinental destinations. We will operate more flights to Jakarta in combination with Kuala Lumpur, and to Denpasar in combination with Singapore. KLM has resumed direct flights to Osaka and will resume daily service to Tokyo Narita. Flight frequency will also be increased to Taipei, Hong Kong, Montreal, Toronto and Los Angeles. Capacity to North American destinations is currently above 2019 levels. These changing frequencies are part of an ongoing process whereby we adjust our network to market conditions, taking into account available aircraft and manpower.

KLM will resume daily service to Tel Aviv From Monday 1 April. This service will be operated with a stopover at Larnaca until at least 19 May. KLM is closely monitoring the security situation in Israel.

In Europe, KLM will increase flight frequency to various destinations this summer. In Scandinavia, KLM will operate daily service to Billund (Denmark) and Stavanger (Norway). In Great Britain, flight frequency will be increased to Edinburgh, Newcastle, Glasgow and Southampton. As was the case this winter, KLM will continue to serve Marseille in the summer and will operate daily service to Nice. In Poland, frequency will be increased to Krakow, Gdansk and Wroclaw. KLM will also increase flight frequency to Prague (Czech Republic) this summer. In Italy, KLM will increase frequency to Bologna, Florence and Genoa.

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

Virgin Australia leadership to transition

Following on from a return to profitability in FY23 and a strong first half of FY24, Virgin Australia Holdings announces that Jayne Hrdlicka, with the Board’s support, has decided now is the time to transition on from the role of CEO.

After nearly four years of intensive work and transformation since the dual challenges of Administration and the onset of COVID-19, Jayne has decided that now is the right juncture to ensure that succession is in place to see the company through a future IPO and beyond.

The Board of Virgin Australia will shortly commence a global search process for a new CEO.

Ms Hrdlicka has led Virgin Australia as CEO since her appointment in 2020 after the airline was acquired out of Administration by Bain Capital and supported by Virgin Group during the COVID-19 pandemic and guided the business out of the unprecedented period of lockdown and back into the skies.

During this period the airline has been repositioned as a value carrier and rebuilt to deliver great choice and value to travellers while also returning the airline to profitability and a sustainable future. Our people have been the centrepiece of this period and have enabled a successful phase one to Virgin Australia’s transformation. Virgin Australia is underway in the second phase of its transformation, targeting continued growth and margin expansion that will underpin ongoing investment in its customer proposition, secure its long-term financial sustainability, and strengthen its competitive position in the Australian market.

Comments from Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka:   “I have decided the time is right for me to signal CEO transition for this great airline and ultimately to pass the baton on. This is not a decision I have taken lightly, but the last 4 years have been heavy lifting across the organisation during the toughest of times. We are in the midst of the next phase of our transformation program and there is a lot to do and an IPO to deliver. The next phase of this journey is another 3-5 years, making now the perfect juncture to begin the process of leadership transition to deliver the next few chapters of what I’m sure will be a significant long-term success story.”

I am very proud of what the Virgin Australia team has accomplished together since the depths of Administration and the COVID-19 pandemic. I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to guide the team to this point on its journey, and I very much look forward to seeing the continued success of Virgin Australia.

East Midlands Airport proud to host MOD flights

East Midlands Airport (EMA) proudly hosted flights on behalf of the Ministry of Defence last week, taking troops to Germany and Poland for the start of NATO's Exercise Steadfast Defender.

The Airbus A330 aircraft may have been spotted on the runway and in the skies above EMA over the past week as it made nine trips across to Hannover in Germany and back, basing itself at EMA. A further seven trips across to Szczecin operated at the weekend.

Exercise Steadfast Defender is the largest NATO exercise in decades with over 90,000 military personnel taking part from 31 NATO countries and partner nations.

The first flight saw soldiers from the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team Headquarters, who are based at Kendrew Barracks in Cottesmore, Rutland, fly out from the airport to Poland for the start of the exercise. The Rutland based troops are leading NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) Land Forces which is the highest-readiest element of NATO’s larger Response Force. The powerful and highly mobile VJTF can deploy within days anywhere in the world in support of NATO allies.

Secretary of State for Defence visits RAF Valley

The Secretary of State for Defence visited RAF Valley recently to see the results of £775 million invested in state-of-the-art equipment to train the next generation of pilots.  The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP met flying instructors, student pilots and Engineers from BAE, Babcock and Ascent, and as a keen pilot himself also flew the Hawk T2 simulator on a low-level flight.

“The sobering events taking place 1500 miles to the east of us, underscore the importance of RAF Valley’s work to both UK Defence and to our NATO Allies."

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said, "There is a real sense of purpose about this place, it is buzzing with activity and one quickly gains a sense that RAF Valley is fully connected to the front-line and committed to meeting future operational needs, in the form of producing first class, front-line fighter pilots of the highest quality, in the required quantity, and getting them where they are needed in a timely manner.

The new investments at Valley totalling £775 million - that are being directed into engineering support for Hawk and the new Texan training facility, will strengthen this endeavour. They also underline MoD and Government commitment to jobs and skills in North Wales; guaranteeing existing jobs and nurturing the next generation of Engineering apprentices - of which a great many are locally recruited.”

The Defence Secretary was visiting RAF Valley as part of a wider visit to North Wales. He was met by the RAF Head of Flying Training - Air Commodore Sharrocks, and the Station Commander RAF Valley - Group Captain Hoare.

The Secretary of State was keen to witness how the RAF is training the next generation of fast jet pilots and also to assess for himself the impact of recent investment in flying training and the efforts to increase the throughput of pilots to the trained strength in a timely manner.

Envoy IV CC Mk1

The Envoy name reflects the role of the aircraft in defence diplomacy and relationship building and is a nod to previous Envoy aircraft in RAF service. The original Envoy aircraft in RAF service was the Airspeed Envoy, first flown in 1934. It was a twin-engine light transport aircraft, used by the RAF across Marks I, II (as the Oxford) and III, before and during World War 2 in the communications role; one of which served with the ‘Kings Flight’, the precursor to today’s No 32 (The Royal) Squadron.

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!