Leadership Award for Pegasus Airlines’ CEO at Aviation Week Network’s 66th Laureate Awards

Güliz Öztürk, CEO of Pegasus Airlines, has received the 2024 Aviation Week Laureate Award for Leadership in the Commercial Aviation category. The award was presented at a black-tie gala at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. on 14 March.

 

Highlighting Pegasus Airlines’ successful post-pandemic recovery, strong financial results and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion under Güliz Öztürk's leadership, Aviation Week Network stated: “Güliz Öztürk has led the remarkable comeback of Pegasus Airlines as CEO since 2022. Pegasus is one of the most profitable airlines globally, following a highly successful low-cost carrier model mainly from its biggest base at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen airport. Öztürk has not only delivered strong financial results but is also a keen supporter of gender equality and diversity.”

 

Aviation Week Network is the largest multimedia information and services provider for the global aviation, aerospace, and defense industries. Aviation Week Network’s 66th Laureate Awards recognise extraordinary achievements in aerospace by innovators that represent the values and vision of the global aerospace community across industry sectors including commercial, defence, space and maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

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!

UK orders long-range Chinook helicopters

Capability boost for UK's global military operations as contract confirmed for new Chinooks

The new helicopters will have double the range of the existing Chinooks in service among the UK Armed Forces

Britain’s heavy-lift capability will be bolstered with the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks (CH47-ER), which will pump an estimated £151 million into the UK economy.

14 state-of-the art Chinook helicopters to provide versatile heavy-lift capability over double the range of a standard Chinook.

Programme now confirmed to bring in an estimated £151 million of extra investment to UK economy.

UK companies will produce components critical for manufacturing and maintaining the helicopters.

The new Chinooks significantly enhance the UK’s strategic mobility with its ability to operate in challenging environments. From the desert to the arctic, the helicopter has double the range of a standard Chinook and is capable of air-to-air refuelling, with the ability to carry up to 55 personnel or 10,000 kg of cargo.

With a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the new helicopters will have a range of new capabilities, including an advanced digital cockpit and a modernised airframe to increase stability and survivability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the commitment to proceed with the contract after meeting crew members from one of the Chinooks in the Royal Air Force’s existing fleet.

Through successful negotiations between MOD’s procurement arm - Defence Equipment & Support - and the US Government, the UK has reduced costs for elements of the programme by more than £300 million, ensuring value for money whilst providing our armed forces with a cutting-edge heavy lift capability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Procuring these Chinook helicopters will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to modernise and enhance the agility of the UK Armed Forces, cementing our ability to respond at pace to situations and threats across the globe.

The Chinook is one of our most iconic aircraft, having been operated in every major conflict since the Falklands War. Delivering on this deal not only enhances our capability, but will boost UK industry and skills."

The Defence Secretary also visited Poland yesterday and met his counterpart to discuss international support for Ukraine, and made a further visit to meet British troops currently exercising in Poland. 

Hilton to Accelerate Expansion in Fast-Growing Lifestyle Category with Addition of Graduate Hotels to Global Brand Portfolio

Hilton announced an agreement with Adventurous Journeys Capital Partners (“AJ Capital”) to acquire the fan-favourite Graduate Hotels® brand, adding a significant growth opportunity for the global hospitality leader in the fast-growing lifestyle hotel market.  

Hilton will pay $210 million to acquire all rights to the Graduate brand worldwide, enter into franchise agreements for all existing and signed pipeline Graduate Hotels, and become responsible for the brand’s future development and growth. AJ Capital will remain the owner of the more than 35 operating and pipeline Graduate properties, each of which will be operated under long-term Hilton franchise agreements.  

The transaction, which is expected to close in the second quarter, subject to customary closing conditions including review and approval pursuant to Hart-Scott-Rodino, will be immediately accretive to Hilton. The company expects the fee contribution for the first full year of ownership to be approximately $16 million.

“Adding Graduate Hotels to our portfolio of award-winning brands accelerates our expansion in the lifestyle space by pairing an existing much-loved brand with the power of Hilton’s strong commercial engine to drive growth,” said Chris Nassetta, president and CEO, Hilton. “We have long had a high bar for adding brands to our portfolio, whether organically or through acquisition, and Graduate will be another driver of growth for us, presenting a unique opportunity to serve more guests in more sought-after destinations. With thousands of colleges and universities around the world, we believe the addressable market for the Graduate brand is 400-500 hotels globally.”

BOC Aviation reports record earnings in 2023.....

BOC Aviation Limited has released details of 2023 results, which show a net profit after tax of US$764 million for the year, exceeding 2019’s previous record of US$702 million. 

The improvement reflected underlying growth across the business, combined with insurance settlements in respect of aircraft in Russia.  The balance sheet grew by 10% during 2023 to more than US$24 billion, reflecting investment in new aircraft. In 2023, BOC committed to acquire 95 aircraft and ended the year with record total committed capital expenditure of US$12 billion and an orderbook of 224 aircraft.

“We are delighted to report record earnings as we celebrate our 30th anniversary,” Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, BOC Aviation, commented. “We achieved record fleet growth in 2023, which also drove our revenues, cashflows and asset values to record highs. With passenger travel growth expected to remain firm, we are well placed to leverage continued strong demand for the modern aircraft that comprise our fleet and orderbook.”

Financial Highlights

Our financial highlights for the year ended 31 December 2023 are:

• Total revenues and other income rose 7% year-on-year, to US$2.5 billion

• Record net profit after tax of US$764 million compared with US$20 million in 2022

• Earnings per share of US$1.10 and net assets per share of US$8.28

• Operating cash flow net of interest rose 8% to US$1.6 billion

• Total assets of US$24.2 billion at 31 December 2023, up 10% on 2022

• Raised US$4.1 billion of new debt financing comprising US$2.5 billion of loans and

US$1.7 billion of bonds

• Maintained strong liquidity of US$5.6 billion, comprising US$392 million in cash and

cash equivalents and US$5.2 billion in undrawn committed credit facilities at 31 December 2023

• The Board recommended a final dividend for 2023 of US$0.2721 per share, pending

approval at the AGM to be held on 30 May 2024. The final dividend will be payable

to shareholders registered at the close of business on the record date, being 7 June

2024, bringing the total dividend for the financial year 2023 to US$0.38521 per

share, calculated at 35% of net profit after tax

Portfolio and Operational Highlights

As at 31 December 2023, BOC Aviation had:

• A total fleet of 684 aircraft owned, managed and on order, with an average aircraft

age of 4.6 years and an average remaining lease term of 8.1 years for the 426

owned aircraft fleet, weighted by net book value2

• A customer base of 91 airlines in 45 countries and regions in the owned and

managed portfolios

• Executed a record 348 transactions in 2023, including:

• Commitments to purchase 95 aircraft

• Delivery of 65 aircraft (excluding two acquired by an airline customer on

delivery)

• Sale of 20 aircraft and one engine

• 142 lease commitments

• An orderbook of 224 aircraft

• Recorded aircraft utilisation of 99% for the owned portfolio for the year ended 31 December 2023

IATA Announces First Signatories to Air Cargo Digitalization Leadership Charter

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the launch of the IATA Digitalization Leadership Charter at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong. Cathay Cargo, CHAMP Cargosystems, Global Logistics System (HK) Company Limited, IAG Cargo, IBS Software, LATAM Cargo, and Lufthansa Cargo are the inaugural signatories of the charter.

The Digitalization Leadership Charter aims to accelerate the air cargo industry’s digitalization journey by committing to five key guiding principles. Developed in consultation with IATA’s Cargo Advisory Council Members, airlines and the wider air cargo community, the charter seeks to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and promote a sustainable and harmonized digital transformation. Central to the charter is the importance of data sharing using IATA ONE Record for smooth and efficient data exchange.

“Digitalization is imperative for the air cargo industry. It requires alignment to ensure a unified and effective approach. IATA has introduced the Digitalization Leadership Charter to spearhead this alignment. By adhering to the Charter's principles—adopting industry-wide standards, championing sustainability, ensuring ethical technology use, and upholding digital leadership—the charter sets a benchmark for excellence,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.

IATA Announces Winner of ​​​​​​2024 FACE-UP Competition

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Erik Goldenstein was the recipient of the IATA FACE-UP award for 2024. FACE-UP is a competition for recent university graduates who have developed innovation and transformation solutions in air transport logistics.

Goldenstein was voted as the winner for his role in creating the NE:ONE Play app built on the ONE Record Data Standard. The app provides a visualization of ONE Record data giving a very simplified overview of complex air cargo data. This allows organizations to browse through their shipment data as easily as browsing the web, facilitating optimization of their operational processes. The award was presented at the World Cargo Symposium (WCS) in Hong Kong.

FACE-UP is a competition that provides recent graduates from around the globe a unique opportunity to present their solution on addressing the challenges of the air cargo supply chain to industry executives.

UK orders 14 more Chinook helicopters....

Capability boost for UK's global military operations as contract confirmed for new Chinooks

The new helicopters will have double the range of the existing Chinooks in service among the UK Armed Forces

Britain’s heavy lift capability will be bolstered with the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks (CH47-ER), which will pump an estimated £151 million into the UK economy.

14 state-of-the art Chinook helicopters to provide versatile heavy-lift capability over double the range of a standard Chinook.

Programme now confirmed to bring in an estimated £151 million of extra investment to UK economy.

UK companies will produce components critical for manufacturing and maintaining the helicopters.

The new Chinooks significantly enhance the UK’s strategic mobility with its ability to operate in challenging environments. From the desert to the arctic, the helicopter has double the range of a standard Chinook and is capable of air-to-air refuelling, with the ability to carry up to 55 personnel or 10,000 kg of cargo.

With a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the new helicopters will have a range of new capabilities, including an advanced digital cockpit and a modernised airframe to increase stability and survivability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the commitment to proceed with the contract after meeting crew members from one of the Chinooks in the Royal Air Force’s existing fleet.

Through successful negotiations between MOD’s procurement arm - Defence Equipment & Support - and the US Government, the UK has reduced costs for elements of the programme by more than £300 million, ensuring value for money whilst providing our armed forces with a cutting-edge heavy lift capability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Procuring these Chinook helicopters will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to modernise and enhance the agility of the UK Armed Forces, cementing our ability to respond at pace to situations and threats across the globe.

The Chinook is one of our most iconic aircraft, having been operated in every major conflict since the Falklands War. Delivering on this deal not only enhances our capability, but will boost UK industry and skills."

The Defence Secretary also visited Poland yesterday and met his counterpart to discuss international support for Ukraine, and made a further visit to meet British troops currently exercising in Poland. 

Surf Air faces big fine for using unqualified pilot on flights.

FAA Proposes $280,000 Penalty Against Southern Airways Express

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has warned it may fine Surf Air a massive $280,000 after one of its subsidiaries may have operated a number of flights with an unqualified pilot. 

The FAA said that Southern Airways Express of Palm Beach, Florida was facing a fine for allowing an unqualified co-pilot on revenue flights between 1st and 12 October 2022. It's alleged the firm operated three Cessna Caravan aeroplanes on around 32 commercial flights with a co-pilot who had not passed recent written or oral tests or a competency check. The flights occurred between Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia and Morgantown Municipal Airport in West Virginia.

By using an unqualified pilot, Southern Airways Express operated the aircraft in a careless or reckless manner that endangered lives and property, the FAA alleges. 

Under the normal process for such incidents, the airline now has 30 days to respond to the FAA’s penalty notification with any mitigating circumstances or reasons. 

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!

Latest SpaceX launch goes further than before.

The latest starship from SpaceX launched today, becoming the heaviest manmade object in space, at least for a while.  Elon Musk claimed it would be the starship that takes humanity to Mars. The two-stage vehicle made what appeared to be a perfect getaway from its Texas launch site, to send its upper portion around the globe to a re-entry over the Indian Ocean.

Radio contact was lost towards the end but the firm said it was "incredible to see how far we got this time around".  They lost contact with it, presumably because it had broken up and according to some, the fact the craft didn't survive re-entry to splashdown would be a disappointment, it still represents a major step forward in the development of the world's most powerful rocket. 

The FAA said, a mishap occurred during the SpaceX Starship OFT-3 mission that launched from Boca Chica, Texas, on 14th March. The mishap involved both the Super Heavy booster and the Starship vehicle.

No public injuries or public property damage have been reported. The FAA is overseeing the SpaceX-led mishap investigation to ensure the company complies with its FAA-approved mishap investigation plan and other regulatory requirements. 

  

A mishap investigation is designed to further enhance public safety, determine the root cause of the event, and identify corrective actions to avoid it from happening again. 

  

SpaceX will not need to worry though, the FAA is taking a back seat in the investigation process allowing Musk's space firm to say what went wrong and what went right and the regulator would then rubber stamp whatever SpaceX’s final report says, including any corrective actions. 

A return to flight is based on the FAA determining that any system, process, or procedure related to the mishap does not affect public safety. In addition, SpaceX may need to modify its license to incorporate any corrective actions and meet all other licensing requirements. 

British Airways to recall and update some of new uniform

Five months after launching a new uniform, the UK's leading airline, British Airways has admitted its new threads may need to be revised!

The airline has issued an update that some items of the new uniform have not "fared as well and might need some alterations." and the new designs by Ozwald Boateng, “are not quite hitting the mark”. 

This follows months of complaints and criticisms from staff posted on social media and staff messageboards. In addition, comments from customers have also been less than flattering in the whole with many failing to warm to the design. 

At the time, Ozwald Boateng OBE said: “Designing this uniform was a vast and painstaking undertaking and went far beyond clothes. It was about creating an energetic shift internally. One of my main objectives was to create something that spoke to, and for, the airline’s colleagues. Something that inspired and empowered them, encouraged them to conduct their roles with pride and most importantly to ensure that they felt seen and heard. Although the airline has a strong heritage, it was imperative to support in creating a fresh narrative of change and transcendence, while remaining timeless.”

Aerotime reports that the airline has asked some uniform suppliers to work on new blouses and shirts and supply sample remedies for the originals that were so thin they were almost transparent when worn by cabin crew. The carrier has also already updated some items that had already been approved. 

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!

Boeing's records of who worked on the doorplug that blew off an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX jet deleted

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy has written a letter to a Senate committee that is investigating the Alaska Airlines 737 MAX doorplug blow out on 5th January, informing them of Boeing's lack of records.

Homendy stated that the NTSB doesn’t know who worked on the panel that blew off a 737 MAX 9 because Boeing’s CEO told her that he couldn’t provide the information because the company has no records about the job.  “The absence of those records will complicate the NTSB’s investigation moving forward,”

Homendy told senators last week that the NTSB asked Boeing for security camera footage that might help identify who worked on the panel in September, but was told the video was overwritten after 30 days — months before the blowout. Boeing delayed weeks before providing the names of 25 employees that work on doors at the manufacturer's Seattle facility, only handing over the information after Homendy had started giving her statement.  

Former Boeing whistleblower found dead

Police are still investigating the death of a former Boeing employee and whistleblower, John Barnett. Initial reports indicated that Barnett had died from what appeared to be "self-inflicted" gunshot wounds on 9th March.  

UK's Civil Aviation Authority proposes streamlined licensing system for General Aviation Pilots

General Aviation Pilots will soon find it easier to gain and maintain a licence when proposals put forward by the UK Civil Aviation Authority are implemented.

The regulator is working to simplify the licensing process for the general aviation community as part of its General Aviation Pilot Licensing and Training Simplification project.

The proposals set out in a consultation published today by the UK Civil Aviation Authority will see changes to a wide range of issues.

These include consolidating the number of licences on offer, reducing the number of examinations for the gaining of licences and changes to the class rating structure including requirements for maintenance of competence.

General Aviation Pilot Licensing could be simplified and rationalised under new proposals.

The proposals cover the potential changes to pilot licensing for aeroplanes, sailplanes, helicopters, gyroplanes and balloons and airships.

Follows extensive work by the UK Civil Aviation Authority to consider the general aviation community views on licensing.

Proposals cover licensing for aeroplanes and microlights, sailplanes, helicopters, gyroplanes and balloons and airships.

Reform of the system was a high priority for the general aviation community when asked by the UK Civil Aviation Authority and this signals a major step closer to delivering on those wishes.

Michael Macdonald, Head of General Aviation at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:

“To all pilots, the licence they hold is incredibly important. We’re looking to simplify the system to make it easier for new pilots to choose their path in aviation, and for existing pilots to maintain and upgrade their licences, all whilst maintaining the UK’s world-class level of safety.

“Experts from the community have been involved throughout the development process of these measures, which we feel will really benefit those looking to gain licences in the UK.”

The consultation will be open for 10 weeks and will close on the 22 May 2024

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!

Daily nonstop seasonal service from New York and Boston to Dublin

U.S. carrier JetBlue has expanded its transatlantic offerings today with new, nonstop flights taking off from New York and Boston today heading to Dublin. 

The daily summer-seasonal service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Boston Logan International Airport to Dublin Airport will operate until 30th September with Airbus A321neo aircraft.

The transatlantic service features JetBlue's Mint premium experience which has fully lie-flat private suites with a sliding door and a custom-designed seat cushion from Tuft & Needle. Passengers will be given the newly launched Mint amenity kits, tucked into a stylish and reusable foldable backpack designed by Caraa, the new amenity kits contain popular wellness products from New York-based brands Dr. Denis Gross and Plus Ultra, in addition to Tuft & Needle sleep amenities. Mint customers enjoy delicious, restaurant-style small plates curated by Delicious Hospitality Group’s (DHG) popular New York City restaurants Legacy Records, Charlie Bird and Pasquale Jones. Their inventive culinary style and hospitality expertise brings the best inflight dining experience to Mint tray tables.

Core customers enjoy a boutique-style experience no matter where they sit with the most legroom in coach(a) as well as innovative, fresh meals crafted specifically for the A321neo with Mint aircraft. JetBlue worked with NYC-based culinary partner DIG to design an innovative and high-quality menu that more closely aligns with the beloved culinary experience on JetBlue’s A321 Long Range transatlantic routes. Upon launch, options for core customers will include crepes with smoked turkey, brie and caramelized onion jam; herb and cheese frittata; pesto pasta salad with grilled chicken; and sesame noodles with ginger garlic tofu, carrots and daikon.

All customers stay connected throughout the flight with fast, free and unlimited high-speed Fly-Fi(b) and have access to a wide selection of entertainment, including exclusive content from Peacock. To honour the new destination, JetBlue’s seatback screens will also offer a curated catalogue of Irish entertainment, including films such as Belfast, Once and Brooklyn, and specially-curated audio stories about Ireland from travel storytelling platform Autio. All customers are able to enjoy a multi-screen experience onboard – just like they do at home.

Airlines try to leverage Boeing woes despite lack of alternatives

Airline executives are frustrated with Boeing as its safety crisis has upended their business plans. But in a tight market for large aircraft supplied by two companies, they have little choice but do business with the U.S. planemaker, reports Rajesh Kumar Singh from Reuters.

Despite some public displays of alarm - United Airlines  CEO Scott Kirby flew to France to talk with Airbus as Boeing's latest crisis erupted - carriers are still negotiating new plane orders, looking to leverage Boeing's delays to secure better terms.

Boeing's delivery schedule faces extended delays following a Jan. 5 mid-flight cabin blowout that exposed problems with safety and quality control in its manufacturing processes. But rival Airbus already has a backlog of orders that makes shifting over a non-starter.

Instead, airlines are adopting a variety of strategies to try to stay in the game with Boeing, using orders of one type of plane as a placeholder to possibly take deliveries of a different model. They also are negotiating harder, looking to use production delays to get discounts from the planemaker on new orders and compensation for financial losses.

"Boeing customers don't have much option but to stick with Boeing whether they like it or not," said Scott Hamilton, managing director at aviation consulting firm Leeham Company.

Kirby has been among the most vocal in expressing frustrations with Boeing. He met with Airbus after regulators grounded all of United's Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet and put a big question mark over certification of the larger variant MAX 10, which was due for deliveries this year and was to be the cornerstone of United's fleet.

Corsair gets a new Airbus A330neo on lease from AerCap

Leasing giant AerCap has confirmed the delivery of the first of four new Airbus A330neo aircraft to Corsair.  The remaining three aircraft are scheduled to deliver through 2024.

"We are delighted to deliver the first of four A330neo aircraft to Corsair," said Peter Anderson, the Chief Commercial Officer of AerCap. "The A330neo is one of the most desirable and in-demand aircraft in the world and will not only support Corsair's widebody fleet modernization but will bolster their sustainability commitments by reducing emissions and enhancing operational efficiency. We wish Pascal de Izaguirre and all the team at Corsair every success and look forward to working with them as these aircraft deliver."

"With the delivery of this new A330neo aircraft, Corsair is entering the second and final phase of its fleet renewal plan. By the end of 2024, we will have added a further four new A330neos to our fleet, the first of which will be deployed to service destinations in the French West Indies, commencing March 19. Subsequently, the second aircraft is scheduled to operate between France and the Ivory Coast, commencing in April. By the end of this year, all Corsair routes will be operated by A330neo aircraft. Our fleet will be among the youngest fleet in the world, lowering the impact on the environment while enhancing our customers' travel experience," said Pascal de Izaguirre, the CEO of Corsair.

Enea Fracassi, Board Member, Chief Operating Officer of Corsair International, Fleet Director, Accountable Manager said "I can only thank the Aercap team for the professionalism and support they provide. Looking forward to receiving the next ones!"

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!

Standards for helicopter landing areas at hospitals report released by CAA

The UK's Civil Aviation Authority has published a new report designed to help health authorities, hospitals and Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) operators adhere to design standards for helicopter landing areas at hospitals. 

Air Ambulance Helicopters form an essential part of the UK’s pre-hospital response to patients suffering life-threatening injuries or illnesses. It is estimated that every day about 70 patients are treated using helicopters operating in the air ambulance role to helicopter landing sites (HLSs) located at hospitals in the United Kingdom. 

These HLSs are routinely provided at hospitals for the transfer of critically ill patients by air ambulance helicopters and by helicopters operating in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) role with facilities varying in complexity from a purpose-built structure on a rooftop above the emergency department (ED), with integral aeronautical lighting and fire-fighting systems, to an occasional use recreational / sports field remotely located from the ED perhaps only equipped with an “H” and a windsock present.

The primary purpose of this latest report is to promulgate in detail the design requirements and

range of options for new heliports located at hospitals in the United Kingdom that can also be applied for the refurbishment of existing helicopter landing sites. In all cases heliport design guidance is based on the international standards and recommended practices in ICAO Annex 14 Volume II with the supporting Document 9261 “Heliport Manual”. However, given the pivotal role of an HLS at a hospital for supporting the (often complex) clinical needs of the patient, it is equally important that the design of the heliport places, at its heart, the needs of the patient who is often critically ill. Consequently, the design of a heliport needs to ensure that it is both ‘safe and friendly’ for helicopter operations, and, given the clinical needs of the patient, that its proximity to the hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) affords rapid patient transfer and avoids the complication of a secondary transfer by land ambulance. Patient transfer from the HLS to the ED should be expedited in a manner that upholds both the dignity and security of the patient and the safety and security of staff tasked to complete the transfer of the patient to ED, potentially in all weather conditions.

Standards for helicopter landing areas (caa.co.uk)

The report addresses the design requirements and options for new heliports located at hospitals in the United Kingdom. The requirements relate to new build facilities or to the refurbishment of landing sites at both existing and new hospitals. As well as setting out in detail the design requirements for hospital heliports, this CAP also provides guidance on their operation and management.

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!

U.S. approve full speed production of F-35 fighters.

The Pentagon has finally approved the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter for full-rate production, five years later than originally anticipated reports Breaking Defense. 

The U.S. Defense Department acquisition chief Bill LaPlante signed off on the “milestone C” decision earlier this week, a crucial moment signifying the department’s confidence in the performance of the aircraft and maturity of Lockheed Martin’s production system — though the plane has already been in service in the US and with friendly foreign nations for years and has suffered a vast number of mechanical and practical issues that have resulted in an aircraft that is 80% fit for use, according to some RAF personnel working on the aircraft.   

“This is a major achievement for the F-35 Program,” LaPlante said, according to a Pentagon news release. “This decision — backed by my colleagues in the Department — highlights to the Services, F-35 Cooperative Program Partners, and Foreign Military Sales customers that the F-35 is stable and agile, and that all statutory and regulatory requirements have been appropriately addressed.”

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!

Emirates SkyCargo is now live on cargo.one

The new channel cements Emirates SkyCargo’s presence on three of the biggest digital marketplaces, providing more choice and flexibility for global customers.

Cementing its presence on three of the biggest digital marketplaces for air freight logistics, Emirates SkyCargo is now live on cargo.one. The partnership underscores Emirates SkyCargo’s long standing commitment to implementing digital solutions that streamline operations, drive efficiencies and unlock value for its global customer base. Bolstering its advanced and customer-centric digital distribution strategy, partnering with cargo.one ensures that Emirates SkyCargo offers are present where its customers wish to book. 

Through cargo.one, customers will be able to access Emirates SkyCargo schedules, tariff and contract rates, along with real-time access to available capacity, empowering freight forwarders to make immediate bookings at any time. During the initial launch phase, the partnership will roll out in select countries in Europe before expanding across the Americas, Africa, the Far East and Australasia. cargo.one now contributes to Emirates SkyCargo’s digital status in the market, with its seamless booking experience and reach to 15,000 freight forwarders in every corner of the world. 

Jeffrey van Haeften, Senior Vice President Cargo Commercial Worldwide, Emirates SkyCargo, said: “Digitalisation is a key way that we help the world work better, providing flexible and convenient options for freight forwarders to seamlessly access Emirates SkyCargo’s world-class product and services. In turn, by streamlining our quotations and bookings, we enable our teams to focus on providing outstanding customer service, which is the cornerstone of our brand. We will continue to invest in digital solutions and partnerships such as cargo.one to enhance the experience for our customers and expedite the movement of goods all over the world.”

Emirates SkyCargo’s four core products are listed on cargo.one, including Emirates Fresh and Emirates Fresh Breathe, an integrated and responsive cool chain purpose-built for perishables; Emirates Airfreight Priority for urgent shipments that require speed and reliability; and Emirates Airfreight for the quick and careful transport of general cargo.

Airbus establishes an OpenCargoLab with leading airfreight industry partners

Airbus has launched the OpenCargoLab, a collaborative initiative with leading partners from the airline, logistics and handling sectors, focusing on the entire airfreight ecosystem. The collaboration involves a team of experts from CHAMP Cargosystems, Fraport, KLM Cargo, Kuehne+Nagel and Swissport. Together, the partners will work to drive digital, resource-saving concepts, contributing to more resilient and efficient airfreight processes.

Announced at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong taking place from 12 to 14 March, the OpenCargoLab supports Airbus’ forecast, which expects the global freight market to grow by 50% by 2042. Specifically for Asia-Pacific, the region’s continued rapid economic growth means this market remains highly promising for modern airfreight business with digital-savvy hubs. Airbus anticipates demand for around 400 widebody freighters, including new builds and conversions, in Asia-Pacific over the next 20 years. This represents more than 25% of global demand for 1,490 cargo aircraft in the above 40 tonne segment.

As part of the OpenCargoLab initiative, Airbus will also evaluate digital solutions such as augmented reality and robotics in order to optimise data connectivity in general and, for example, the transport of dangerous goods in particular.

"With the OpenCargoLab, we benefit from a holistic think tank for the dynamically growing cargo market and thus an agile environment for developing innovations connecting the airfreight market of today and tomorrow,” says Marvin Ehrmann, Head of Airbus’ OpenCargoLab. “We are very excited to have established a thought leadership platform where experienced partners can drive the airfreight sector to become even more efficient, sustainable and connected.”

In addition, the OpenCargoLab will contribute to the A350F’s further design and application development. Just two-and-a-half years after launch, the order book for this all-new, next-generation freighter stands at 50 firm orders from nine customers as Airbus steadily expands its market share in this highly competitive segment.

In order to test the findings developed at the OpenCargoLab, an innovative test field for validating these new technology concepts is currently established at Airbus’ Cargo competence site in Bremen, Germany, e.g. known for the development of the cargo loading systems or the cargo door actuation systems.  Among others, a replica of the A350F fuselage with the large cargo door included will be installed at the sites’ new Cargo Test Center by the end of 2024.

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!

IATA and Smart Freight Centre Join Forces on CO2 Emission Calculations

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Smart Freight Centre (SFC) announced a partnership to provide consistent and transparent CO2 emissions calculations for air cargo shipments. This is an important step for the global air transport sector to advance its decarbonization efforts.

The two organizations will focus efforts on developing the cargo component of IATA’s CO2 Connect offering, which successfully launched its passenger version in 2022. The IATA CO2 Connect platform uses primary industry data to power highly accurate carbon calculations. The collaboration with the SFC Clean Air Transport Program will promote a common methodology in CO2 emission calculations and ensure accurate and consistent CO2 calculations are distributed to the industry’s biggest shippers and freight forwarders in air cargo, supporting them with pre-shipment and reporting purposes.

 

“Our partnership with the Smart Freight Center will help us to accelerate the development of CO2 Connect for air cargo as the most authoritative tool for carbon calculations. This is important for airlines, shippers and their customers who all need accurate calculations based on real data to support their contributions to global decarbonization efforts,” said Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Commercial Products & Services, at IATA’s World Cargo Symposium (WCS) in Hong Kong.   

"A key milestone has been reached and this has been a long time in the making. The need for unified emissions data is stronger than ever and this milestone will enable cargo transport service purchasers to make well-founded, long-term decisions. Transparency is key to drive decarbonization investments and activities, encouraging collaborative and synergetic action throughout the value chain. Our partnership with IATA will enable effective collaboration by building trust and exchanging information across the value chain which, in turn, will help in accelerating our ongoing efforts in decarbonizing the aviation industry," said Andrea Schoen, SFC Director of the Clean Air Transport program.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal opens UK facility on UAE air base

The Princess Royal toured the brand-new Headquarters, accommodation and welfare facilities at Al Minhad Air Base (AMAB) alongside the Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff (Support Operations), Air Vice-Marshal Pratley earlier this month. They were accompanied by Sir Hobart, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the UAE, and Brigadier General Al Ketbi, AMAB Commander.

“I am delighted to attend the opening of Donnelly Lines, an essential part of the UK’s global footprint, and an example of our enduring presence overseas in what remains an uncertain world beset by turbulent times.

Our continued investment here is a further example of the UK’s commitment to the security of the region and is a tangible commitment to the work for peace, security, and stability, working hand in hand with our allies in the UAE.

The siting of Donnelly Lines at AMAB enables the UK to maintain our freedom of action and ability to conduct operations from the UAE, bolstering our operational resilience. It is of vital importance, and I recognise the hard work and stellar efforts of the team, who have, over several years, worked tirelessly around the clock to make this possible.”

Air Vice-Marshal Pratley

Project Senior Responsible Officer

A joint UAE Air Force Al Fursan and RAF A400M flypast honoured the opening ceremony which included a coalition parade and a commemoration to the late Sergeant Donnelly, whom the Lines are named after.

Emirates SkyCargo is now live on cargo.one

The new channel cements Emirates SkyCargo’s presence on three of the biggest digital marketplaces, providing more choice and flexibility for global customers.

Cementing its presence on three of the biggest digital marketplaces for air freight logistics, Emirates SkyCargo is now live on cargo.one. The partnership underscores Emirates SkyCargo’s long standing commitment to implementing digital solutions that streamline operations, drive efficiencies and unlock value for its global customer base. Bolstering its advanced and customer-centric digital distribution strategy, partnering with cargo.one ensures that Emirates SkyCargo offers are present where its customers wish to book. 

Through cargo.one, customers will be able to access Emirates SkyCargo schedules, tariff and contract rates, along with real-time access to available capacity, empowering freight forwarders to make immediate bookings at any time. During the initial launch phase, the partnership will roll out in select countries in Europe before expanding across the Americas, Africa, the Far East and Australasia. cargo.one now contributes to Emirates SkyCargo’s digital status in the market, with its seamless booking experience and reach to 15,000 freight forwarders in every corner of the world. 

Jeffrey van Haeften, Senior Vice President Cargo Commercial Worldwide, Emirates SkyCargo, said: “Digitalisation is a key way that we help the world work better, providing flexible and convenient options for freight forwarders to seamlessly access Emirates SkyCargo’s world-class product and services. In turn, by streamlining our quotations and bookings, we enable our teams to focus on providing outstanding customer service, which is the cornerstone of our brand. We will continue to invest in digital solutions and partnerships such as cargo.one to enhance the experience for our customers and expedite the movement of goods all over the world.”

Emirates SkyCargo’s four core products are listed on cargo.one, including Emirates Fresh and Emirates Fresh Breathe, an integrated and responsive cool chain purpose-built for perishables; Emirates Airfreight Priority for urgent shipments that require speed and reliability; and Emirates Airfreight for the quick and careful transport of general cargo.

Delta named as official airline of the ‘ACEA Run Rome the Marathon 2024’

Delta is the Official Airline of the Acea Run Rome The Marathon 2024, the first time Delta will showcase the brand at this iconic event in one of the world’s most historic cities.  

In the run-up to the March 17 marathon, Delta will set up a dedicated “Walk in Stand” at the Expo Village in the Palazzo dei Congressi from March 15-16, where the airline will be showcasing its Delta One cabin and onboard amenities, as well as its partnership with Spotify. As part of the activation, passers-by can add their favorite song to a marathon “Run to the Beat” playlist, which will be part of participating runners’ digital kit and be available on Spotify.

"Delta is proud to sponsor the Rome Marathon for the first time. It’s an iconic event in the annual marathon calendar where runners have the opportunity to step where Roman Emperors and gladiators have stepped before and run with the backdrop of the wondrous attractions of the Eternal City,” said Matteo Curcio, Delta’s Senior Vice President-EMEAI.

Sentient Jet unveils 2024 exclusive benefits guide

Leading private aviation company and inventor of the jet card category, Sentient Jet launches its highly anticipated 2024 Exclusive Benefits Guide, providing Jet Card Owners increased opportunities to maximize their membership with Sentient Jet with 12 new partners. 

As Sentient Jet celebrates its legacy of loyalty and commitment, the updated benefits guide reaffirms the brand’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the travel experience for Jet Card owners. In its eleventh edition, the new benefits guide builds on the value that Sentient Jet already offers and incorporates more partnerships to meet Card Owners where they are spending today.

Through its Exclusive Benefits Guide, Sentient Jet demonstrates its reach, well-earned reputation as a trusted travel utility and the relationships it has fostered for 25 years. New partnerships this year include:

- Etereo, Riviera Maya, Auberge Resorts

- Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts

- L’Ermitage Hotel, Beverly Hills

- The Boca Raton Resort & Beach Club

- Castle & Key Distillery, Lexington, KY

- Worth Avenue Yachts

- Human Longevity Wellness & Medical Service

- The Ranch Wellness Retreats

- Ghurka Luxury Leather Goods & Accessories

- Solstice Sunglasses

- Theorem Vineyards

- SkyView Sunlight Lamps

“As Sentient Jet looks ahead to the next chapter, we remain deeply grateful for the loyalty and trust of our valued Card Owners over the past 25 years,” said Andrew Collins, Co-CEO of Flexjet, Sentient Jet’s parent company. “Each year, we are able to enrich the membership experience by evolving our benefits guide to focus on where travellers are vacationing, dining and the events they are attending. We are committed to exceeding expectations and delivering unparalleled value - both on and off the aircraft. We understand that a private flight is just one part of the journey. Excellence, service and customer satisfaction remain pivotal, setting the stage for continued growth and success in the years to come.”

Each thoughtfully sourced benefit aligns with Sentient Jet’s core brand tenets, including:

Service

Known for providing exceptional service, Sentient Jet's relationship with its trusted partners provides its Card Owners with exclusive benefits that they can't find anywhere else. Select benefits range from exclusive offers from Flexjet Helicopters, Exclusive Resorts, Auberge Resorts, Human Longevity Wellness & Medical Testing, and PS aka Private Suite, to name a few.

"Our collaboration with Sentient Jet has been remarkable, thanks to their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service to their Card Owners. Together, we have seamlessly integrated our offerings, creating unique opportunities for Sentient Jet Card Owners who join Exclusive Resorts. This collaboration not only highlights our shared commitment to excellence but also sets the stage for continued innovation in luxury travel," said James Henderson, CEO of Exclusive Resorts.

Card Owners who take full advantage of Sentient Jet’s Exclusive Benefits Guide can experience benefits with a value of approximately $225,000.