Delta Air Lines releases its March Quarter financial results

Delta Air Lines has reported financial results for the March quarter and provided its outlook for the June quarter.  

"Thanks to the extraordinary work of our 100,000 people, Delta is delivering the best operational reliability in our history, and we have widened the gap to our competitors.  We were thrilled to recognize their efforts with $1.4 billion in profit sharing payouts during the quarter," said Ed Bastian, Delta's chief executive officer.

"For the March quarter, we delivered record revenue on outstanding operational performance, enabling strong earnings growth.  We anticipate continued strong momentum for our business, and in the June quarter, we expect to deliver record revenue, a mid-teens operating margin and earnings of $2.20 to $2.50 per share.  We remain confident in our full year targets for earnings of $6 to $7 per share and free cash flow of $3 to $4 billion."

March Quarter 2024 GAAP Financial Results

• Operating revenue of $13.7 billion
• Operating income of $614 million with an operating margin of 4.5 percent
• Pre-tax income of $122 million with a pre-tax margin of 0.9 percent
• Earnings per share of $0.06
• Operating cash flow of $2.4 billion
• Payments on debt and finance lease obligations of $712 million
• Total debt and finance lease obligations of $19.4 billion at quarter end

March Quarter 2024 Adjusted Financial Results

• Operating revenue of $12.6 billion, 6 percent higher than the March quarter 2023
• Operating income of $640 million with an operating margin of 5.1 percent
• Pre-tax income of $380 million with a pre-tax margin of 3.0 percent
• Earnings per share of $0.45
• Operating cash flow of $2.5 billion
• Free cash flow of $1.4 billion
• Adjusted debt to EBITDAR of 2.9x, down from 3.0x at the end of 2023
• Return on invested capital of 13.8 percent on a trailing five quarter average, up 2.8 points over prior year

Financial Guidance

	FY 2024 Forecast
Earnings Per Share	$6 - $7
Free Cash Flow ($B)	$3 - $4
Adjusted Debt to EBITDAR	2x - 3x
	2Q24 Forecast
Total Revenue YoY	Up 5% - 7%
Operating Margin	14% - 15%
Earnings Per Share	$2.20 - $2.50

1Non-GAAP measures; Refer to Non-GAAP reconciliations for historical comparison figures

Additional metrics for financial modelling can be found in the Supplemental Information section under Quarterly Results on ir.delta.com.

WestJet to operate new non-stop, twice weekly seasonal service between Fredericton and Calgary

Beginning June 20, 2024, the Canadian airline WestJet will operate a new non-stop, twice-weekly seasonal service between Fredericton and Calgary. 

"The addition of service between Fredericton and Calgary is a testament to our ongoing commitment to deliver on our promise to expand our service in Atlantic Canada through critical east-to-west connectivity, which has been met with strong community support," said Andrew Gibbons, WestJet Vice-President of External Affairs. "The route we are celebrating today will not only foster enhanced business and leisure ties but further strengthen the connection between the vibrant and unique economies in both Fredericton and Calgary."

Route	Frequency	Start Date	End Date	Departure	Arrival
Calgary-Fredericton	2x weekly	June 20	October 28	9:15	17:00
Fredericton-Calgary	2x weekly	June 20	October 28	17:50	20:05

"We're delighted to welcome WestJet's non-stop route from Fredericton to Calgary," said Johanne Gallant, President and CEO of the Fredericton International Airport Authority. "YFC is a growing airport in a thriving region, and this new flight brings the connectivity families, businesses and visitors are looking for."

"WestJet's new Calgary-Fredericton service will be great news to a growing number of Albertans looking to vacation in the Fredericton and the rest of the Maritimes," said David Seabrook, Director of Tourism for the Fredericton Capital Region. "The connections between family and friends in the two provinces are historically very strong and this new route will be great for those wanting to plan a visit to New Brunswick's Capital City this summer."

Summer 2024 schedule reinforces WestJet's leading leisure position for Atlantic Canada

RTX's Pratt & Whitney announces North American Technology Accelerator

RTX's Pratt & Whitney has released details of its North American Technology Accelerator (NATA), a commercial and military aftermarket operations centre of excellence based in Florida. The NATA will have dedicated floor space, equipment and resources for the development and industrialization of technology insertion programs that will support the company's global maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) network.

The accelerator projects in Florida are primarily focused on material restoration and process automation including advanced repairs, digital inspection, adaptive processing, and coating and masking for compressor and fan parts, blades, cases, and more. The benefits of these technologies will reduce cost, material demand, and environmental impact, while decreasing turn times, improving throughput, and delivering value to customers. 

"NATA combines data science with people know-how and state-of-the-art automation to help address customer pain points such as inventory management and part availability, while accelerating our improved repair capabilities and efficiency to better serve our customers," said Kevin Kirkpatrick, vice president, Aftermarket Global Operations at Pratt & Whitney.

Key projects include additive repairs for critical GTF engine components. With this new additive repair technology alone, Pratt & Whitney expects to recover $100 million worth of parts over next five years to support GTF MRO ramp.

Global aviation leaders to meet in Riyadh for the 2024 Future Aviation Forum

The Future Aviation Forum (FAF) returns to Riyadh from 20-22 May 2024, bringing together 5,000 experts and aviation leaders from over 100 countries, including ministers, regulators, manufacturers, airlines, and airports. The Forum will find solutions to the sectors main challenges, inviting attendees to vote in person on what they see as the biggest challenge in aviation, with results announced on the final day. 

The Forum, which saw the signing of more than 50 agreements and $2.7 billion in deals during the 2022 edition, will feature globally significant commercial announcements, including equipment orders, connectivity announcements and supplier partnerships, and awards ceremonies recognizing achievements and innovation in aviation.

More than 5,000 aviation experts and leaders from over 100 countries to attend, including ICAO, IATA, ACI, all major global manufacturers, airlines and airports.

FAF24 will propose a plan to solve aviation’s biggest challenge, and feature awards recognizing achievements and innovations in global aviation.

Hosted by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, the Forum will be centered on the theme: Elevating Global Connectivity. 

Register Here.

His Excellency the President of GACA, Abdulaziz-Al Duailej, said:   “The 2024 Future Aviation Forum will once again unite global aviation leaders to solve aviation’s biggest challenges, including manufacturing supply chain issues, capacity constraints and the development of human capital across the world. Saudi Arabia is committed to providing global leadership on these issues.

Global Airlines and Blacklane to offer free airport rides for first and business travellers

Global Airlines will become the only European or American carrier to offer a complimentary chauffeur service for First and Business passengers travelling on its initial routes.

Passengers will be offered complimentary transfers in the latest luxury limousines – including a range of premium electric vehicles - from leading global chauffeur service Blacklane.

Future Airbus A380 operator Global Airlines is teaming up with a leading global chauffeur service provider Blacklane, to provide its first and business passengers with complimentary limo transfers.  Additionally, all Global Traveller passengers will be offered exclusive perks such as discounts and special offers to use the Blacklane service.

Blacklane is operational in over 50 countries and provides guests with a luxurious, reliable and stress-free way to travel on their own schedule while enjoying the peace-of-mind of an uninterrupted door-to-door experience. In addition, Blacklane's limousines offer comfort and privacy which enables guests to either fully relax or continue with their work. The company was the first in their industry to fully carbon offset their operations and have ambitious targets to make 50% of their fleet EV by 2025.

Speaking about the partnership, James Asquith, the CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said: "Working with companies who want to deliver the very best service to passengers is central to our values, and in Blacklane we have a partner who will do exactly that. Blacklane will offer the perfect stress-free start to a journey with Global and I am hopeful that to-and-from airport transfers, along with some other exciting announcements we have coming up, will persuade even more passengers to fly with Global Airlines."

Dr. Sascha Meskendahl, CRO (Chief Revenue Officer) of Blacklane, added: "Blacklane is a trusted brand all over the world, and we pride ourselves on offering peace of mind and a premium service for our guests. This partnership is a logical next step for our business as an increasing number of travellers are using our limousines to and from the airport, especially as the business travel market booms. We can't wait to offer our smart, easy, and reliable chauffeur service to First and Business passengers flying Global." 

Global Airlines is currently working with Airbus to confirm the arrangements and approvals to fly its first fully acquired aircraft to a European facility in the coming weeks. It will then undergo further refurbishment and continue its overhaul work before entering service in the coming months.

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Finnair updates its traffic programme for winter 2024 and summer 2025

Weekly frequencies to Japan and Dallas; opens a new route to Kirkenes, Norway

Finnair has updated its traffic programme for summer 2025. In Japan, Finnair will add frequencies to Tokyo Narita, offering thus daily flights to both Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita in summer 2025. Additionally, Nagoya will get a third weekly frequency. 

Finnair also introduces a new destination in Northern Norway, the town of Kirkenes, starting in summer season 2025. Finnair will fly to Kirkenes from Helsinki via Ivalo three times a week, operated with a 68-seater ATR aircraft. The new route serves Finnish and international travelers looking to explore both Finnish Lapland and Northern Norway and experience, for example, the famous Hurtigruten cruise that sails to and from Kirkenes.  

“We are delighted to introduce a destination that further strengthens our already extensive network in the Arctic region. The new route enables a smooth connection for customers travelling up to Northern Norway, making it fast and easy to reach the destination from Helsinki”, says Ole Orvér, Chief Commercial Officer at Finnair.  

In the Baltics, Finnair will add frequencies to Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius for the summer of 2025. Tallinn and Riga will get five and Vilnius two additional weekly frequencies. 

Finnair has also updated its winter 2024 traffic programme, adding frequencies to Dallas, making it a year-round daily service. Finnair’s Dallas flights offer smooth connections to American Airlines’ extensive network out of their Dallas hub.  

*Winter season 2024: 27.10.2024-29.3.2025; summer season 2025: 30.3.2025-25.10.2025

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British Airways 'Speedbird Pilot Academy cadet programme opens for new applications

The airline is opening the application window for the second year of its fully funded Speedbird Pilot Academy cadet scheme on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. This follows an unprecedented response to its first-year intake which saw more than 20,000 applications for just 100 places.

The Speedbird Pilot Academy initiative, part of the airline’s £7 billion investment across the business, is aimed at levelling the playing field and making a career as a commercial airline pilot a realistic option for all, by removing the previously prohibitive cost barrier of individuals having to pay for their training themselves.

British Airways’ Director of Flight Operations Simon Cheadle, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be able to open the door to a flying career to more people through this programme.

Jet2 pilot and her ATC father share emotional final transmission before his retirement.

A recent Glasgow to Antalya flight was one that will live long in the memory of Jet2 First Officer Lauren Gott and her dad Ian, who made his last ever transmission to his daughter after 41 years working as an Air Traffic Controller.  

Lauren, 29, was operating a busy Jet2 flight to Antalya on Ian’s last working day at NATS’ Prestwick Centre before he retired, and a team effort by colleagues at Jet2.com and NATS made a dream come true for dad and daughter. 

As Lauren flew the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, her father was able to make his final transmission to Lauren’s aircraft. The transmission between Ian and his daughter brought down the curtain on over four decades of him controlling aircraft over the skies of the UK. 

During the transmission, Ian was able to say a few words to mark the end of his 41 year career. He broadcasted his pride at being able to share his final transmission with his daughter, Lauren, who in turn wished him a very happy retirement.  

Other Jet2 pilots who were on frequency at the time, were heard sharing their well wishes and congratulations to Ian. 

The transmission was understandably a proud and emotional moment for Lauren, who says that her father has been a guiding figure during her lifelong passion for aviation. Lauren joined Jet2.com as a Pilot Apprentice in 2020 and has been flying with the leading leisure airline from Glasgow Airport as a First Officer since 2022. 

Lauren said: “Since I started my flying career, my Dad has always dreamed about when the time came for him to retire, how special it would be if I could be the last person that he transmitted to over the radio. I’ll miss hearing his voice over the radio at work (and getting some great shortcuts!) but it’s been an absolute pleasure to share these final moments of his career in such a fitting way.” 

Ian Gott said: “I remember taking Lauren down to the airports in Glasgow and Prestwick when she was a young girl, and she would sit on the roof of the car mesmerised, shouting “jumbo” at everything! It sparked her interest in aviation early and by the age of seven, she was determined to become a pilot. I never would have thought all those years ago, that I would be making my last ever transmission from Prestwick Centre to my daughter as a First Officer for Jet2." 

He added: "It’s an emotional time for anyone leaving a job after so many years, but this has made it truly special for me.”  

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Sierra Space Ghost Enters Flight Test Enabling Global Payload Delivery in 90 Minutes

Sierra Space, a leading commercial space-tech company and next-generation defense-tech prime, building a platform in space to benefit life on Earth and protect the freedom of economic activity in the Orbital Age®, has successfully beta-tested a revolutionary new logistics spacecraft, Sierra Space Ghost.

This new technology propels Sierra Space into a new era of national security space and space logistics, promising to redefine the way critical defence supplies are delivered across the globe. The Sierra Space Ghost Beta decelerator, part of the company’s recently announced Sierra Space Axelerator™ incubator, is a cutting-edge thermal protection system tailored for the safe return of small payloads from space. 

Last month, the first drop test of the Sierra Space Ghost was completed in Florida, enabling Sierra Space test engineers to fully understand the flight characteristics of the system and how recovery operations can be rapidly completed on the ground.

“As we continue to innovate at speed, this test enables us to build, test, learn and accelerate the development of a revolutionary new operational asset for national security,” said Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “We envision having an inventory of Sierra Space Ghost vehicles strategically positioned and readily accessible and deployable within 90 minutes to critical locations anywhere on Earth. Sierra Space Ghost enables our customers to deliver vital resources to frontline personnel with unparalleled precision and speed.”

WestJet adds more flights from Winnipeg

This week the Canadian carrier, WestJet celebrated the latest additions to its Winnipeg network, featuring new year-round, daily service to Montreal, as well as increased, daily, year-round service to Ottawa, beginning June 3, 2024. WestJet also announced new highly anticipated seasonal service between Winnipeg and Nashville, set to take off on September 16, 2024, establishing the airline's seventh direct transborder connection out of Manitoba's capital city.

WestJet's ongoing commitment to significantly enhancing Winnipeg's growing network of air connectivity, central to the airline's ambitious growth strategy, was on display today at a special event hosted at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, attended by the Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba and Nick Hays, President and CEO, Winnipeg Airports Authority.

Providing choice and convenience for Winnipeg's thriving business community

"We know how critical Ottawa and Montreal are for Winnipeg's business community, and we are thrilled to continue supporting Winnipeg's economic growth through strategic air service," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "Expanding connectivity for Winnipeg is in direct response to our WestJet Rewards members and loyal business guests' need for reliable and convenient, non-stop service to and from both Ottawa and Montreal."

Single use plastics products report released.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released the Reassessing Single Use Plastics Products in the Airline Sector report to assist airlines, regulators, and the airline supply chain to mitigate the environmental impacts of single-use plastic products (SUPP). 

This publication is timely as the United National Environmental Program (UNEP) has convened an intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding agreement on SUPP use by the end of 2024. 

SUPP are widely used in aviation due to their strength, lightness, and ability to meet safety and security regulations. However, the airline sector faces challenges associated with improved cabin waste performance and the replacement of SUPP with sustainable alternatives. In addition, airlines face technical and operational obstacles, and the lack of harmonized and risk-based regulations presents a significant barrier to improving recycling and circularity of waste management. The absence of smart regulation continues to constrain airline efforts to improve the sustainability of cabin operations.

Collaboration across the aviation value chain is vital to enable the adoption of circular economy principles and to facilitate the reduction and replacement of SUPP that is necessary for reducing waste and increasing material recovery.

The report advocates for a sectoral approach to managing SUPP in aviation with a clear set of recommendations. Key recommendations include:

For airlines:

•    Reduce waste at source by reviewing standards and procedures through the lens of waste reduction and reuse, and professionally assess the need for SUPP. Set clear targets for the elimination, measurement, and tracking implementation, and disclose progress.

•    Introduce reusable items as a strategy to drive circularity. This requires logistical changes that incorporate a closed-loop service, including the impact of potential added weight of reusables on aircraft on fuel burn and carbon emissions.

•    Improve waste management and recovery by facilitating onboard and ground waste segregation, and undertaking waste composition audits for passenger and cargo operations.

For regulators: 

Asia’s Thriving Cruise Destinations Set to Enrich Regional Cruise Experiences

Four of Asia’s most robust cruise destinations, namely Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines and Xiamen, were showcased to global cruise industry leaders and media at an inclusive luncheon themed “The Rebound of Asia's Destinations” on the opening day of Seatrade Cruise Global 2024. The event highlighted the lucrative opportunities and diverse experiences for enriching Asian cruise itineraries.

Staying true to the Seatrade event’s theme “Charting New Horizons,” the showcased destinations enthralled guests with comprehensive destination updates and notable developments, inspiring industry leaders to capitalize on the appeal of the four standout cruise destinations, and design novel and enriching programs, offering once-in-a-lifetime cruise journeys in Asia. Whether it is berthing in Hong Kong to experience the vibrant city with its unique East-meets-West characteristics, sailing towards Korea to enjoy a blend of heritage and K-pop culture, exploring the rich history and oriental charm of Xiamen, or venturing to the Philippines for exotic experiences, the possibilities for unforgettable cruise adventures are endless.

Hong Kong Excites with Mega Events and New Developments

Hong Kong is ramping up its mega events strategy, adding depth and breadth to the city’s events and festivities, which, in turn, enrich onboard and onshore programs for cruise passengers.

Cruise passengers can indulge in diverse range of art and culture experiences, culinary and nightlife adventures, iconic neighborhoods, revitalizing outdoor activities and endless shopping options in Hong Kong. Even more exciting opportunities await at the upcoming world-class Kai Tak Sports Park, situated in the neighborhood of the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. The park boasts a main stadium with a seating capacity of 50,000 people, making it an ideal venue for hosting mega events. Additionally, SKYCITY, located adjacent to the Hong Kong International Airport, offers an extensive array of options for retail, dining, and entertainment, further enhancing the overall experience for cruise passengers.

Mr. Kenneth Wong, General Manager, MICE & Cruise at the Hong Kong Tourism Board, highlighted, “Strategically positioned in the heart of Asia and at the doorstep of mainland China, Hong Kong offers convenient visa-free travel and state-of-the-art air-land-sea transportation network. It serves as an ideal homeport for cruise lines to develop alluring fly-cruise and rail-cruise products that incorporate Asia’s exotic and vibrant destinations, as showcased at the luncheon today. Hong Kong captures enormous market potential for regional cruising.”

Korea Beckons with K-culture and New Ports

Korea is gearing up to welcome the global cruise industry as it hosts the 11th Asia Cruise Forum Jeju, scheduled for 10-12 July 2024. The event aims to promote cooperation among international and domestic stakeholders, empowering the sustainable growth of the Asian cruise industry.

The country is preparing two new deep-water cruise ports in Pohang and Daesan. The Pohang Yeongilman Port International Passenger Terminal is nestled within a city blessed with unspoiled natural beauty and abundant tourism resources, and actively engaged in the development of a shopping and resort complex, while the Daesan Port in Seosan serves as a brand-new access point on the west coast, allowing visitors to explore the region renowned for its historic holy grounds, temples, and Buddhist relics.

Mr. In Seong Hwang, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of Korea, shared, “Korea is an attractive cruise destination and the epicenter of K-culture, including K-POP, K-drama and K-food. Coupled with its rich traditional culture and history, magnificent tourist attractions and a plethora of shopping facilities and accommodations, Korea creates an ideal environment for cruise travellers to enjoy sightseeing, unique experiences, shopping and relaxation.”

The Philippines Plans Port Enhancement and Destinations Uplift

Capitalizing on the recognition as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination by the World Cruise Awards in 2023, the Philippines is developing five new cruise ports in Boracay, Coron, Camiguin, Siargao and Puerto Galera.

The Philippines is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, coastal attractions, marine biodiversity, heritage sites and colorful history. The archipelagic nation is also exploring new cruise destinations through ongoing inspections of emerging destinations ready for cruise tourism, such as Cebu and Zamboanga.

Dr. Paulo Benito Tugbang, Director IV for Product and Market Development at the Philippine Department of Tourism, said, “We are dedicated to further developing the industry to attract more cruises to the Philippines, with ongoing product enhancement programs for emerging and existing destinations, development of dedicated cruise ports and terminals, and championing favourable cruise-friendly sector-wide policies to support the cruise industry.”

Xiamen Set to Launch New Smart Cruise Terminal

Spirit Airlines to hold off on Airbus deliveries as cash becomes tight.....

Low-cost air carrier Spirit Airlines said yesterday morning that it will defer deliveries of new Airbus aircraft and furlough 260 pilots in the interest of saving cash - specifically, $340 million over the next two years, according to The New York Times.

All aircraft on order that are scheduled to be delivered in 2Q2025 through the end of 2026 will be deferred to 2030 - 2031, The Fly Report states. 

The furlough of 260 pilots starting September 1, 2024 comes as a result of the grounding of aircraft due to Pratt & Whitney GTF engine availability issues, along with the 2025 and 2026 aircraft deferrals, per Spirit’s press release.

As recently announced, Spirit entered into a compensation agreement Pratt & Whitney regarding its GTF engines, which is said to improve the budget carrier's by $150 million to $200 million over the term of that agreement. Additionally, Spirit will continue to evaluate the use of its current financeable asset base to add additional liquidity over the coming months, according to the press release.

"This amendment to our agreement with Airbus is an important part of Spirit's comprehensive plan to bolster profitability and strengthen our balance sheet," said Ted Christie, Spirit's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Deferring these aircraft gives us the opportunity to reset the business and focus on the core airline while we adjust to changes in the competitive environment. In addition, enhancing our liquidity provides us additional financial stability as we position the Company for a return to profitability. We would like to thank our partners at Airbus for their continued support and commitment to the long-term success of Spirit."

Spirit also defers by two years the dates for the optional aircraft included in Spirit's purchase agreement.  Apparently, there is no change to the total number of aircraft on order or Spirit options for additional aircraft, but this may change in later announcements. 

Some commentators have placed a time limit on Spirit's survival in its current state.  There is little doubt since the JetBlue takeover was halted by authorities the budget airline's future was precarious, to say the least. It had been looking around for another suitor that isn't as big as JetBlue, but has a large enough bank balance, yet the search has not proved fruitful.  Sun Country had been offered around as a good tie-up partner, but that isn't looking promising given the current market conditions. 

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Hundreds of local students experience their first taste of the aviation industry showing the sky’s the limit

The innovative aircraft supply and support organisation, Affinity Flying Training Services (Affinity) has teamed up for another year with the Air and Space Institute (ASI) to deliver a series of workshops for young, aspiring aviation enthusiasts. The sessions were tailored to give students support and direction, offering opportunities for young people with interests in aeronautics to speak with experts in the aviation industry and learn about exciting career pathways. 

Affinity, most known for being a trusted provider of aircraft supply and maintenance services for the first stages of the UK Military Flying Training System, has played a vital role to date in encouraging young people to pursue careers in aviation. Operating across the UK from RAF Barkston Heath, RAF Cranwell and RAF Valley, the company makes significant contributions to the UK’s military aviation sector. 

Affinity and ASI launched the series of workshops at the start of the year for students who are currently studying on their L3 pilot and aviation operations and L3 aircraft engineering programmes. The sessions provided invaluable insight for the students, who were able to meet with representatives from Affinity who shared their knowledge and experiences. The workshops experienced high levels of engagement from both the students and industry experts, offering the opportunity for Affinity to contribute to helping develop the next generation of aviation experts. 

Ethiopian inaugurates the new Jinka Airport Terminal

Ethiopian Airlines Group

the largest airline group in Africa, inaugurates its Jinka airport project, unveiling a new terminal and support facility buildings. The new state-of-the-art airport terminal is now open for service, following a grand celebration held today in Jinka, one of the emerging cities in the South Ethiopia Regional State.

The two-and-a-half-year project covered the construction of a new terminal building having a total built-up area of 3,500 square meters, support facility building, and external facilities including exclusive VIP parking area and other facilities.    

Regarding the inauguration of the new Jinka Airport, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are truly delighted to witness the completion of the brand new Jinka Airport Terminal Building project that has been under construction for the last few years. As a national flag carrier, Ethiopian is playing its part in the country’s aviation transformation and Jinka is our latest contribution to Ethiopia’s modern aviation facility. The new Jinka airport will further offer a comfortable travel experience to/from the city thereby boosting trade and tourism in the region and beyond. Committed to enhancing customer experience, we will continue to invest in renovation and upgrading of domestic airports.” 

Following the finalization of the project with an investment cost of more than 8 million Euro for construction, Jinka Airport Terminal is now equipped with modern passenger service areas including departure and VIP lounges and other facilities that will enhance customer experience. 

The completion of the airport will help Ethiopian offer an upgraded customer services to its passengers to/from the city. It also creates a comfortable experience to tourists traveling to southern Ethiopia to visit the exotic people, culture, and nature of the region.

At its hub, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Ethiopian Airlines offers seamless transit and stopover services, creating an opportunity for passengers who have lay over to enjoy the beauty of Addis Ababa, the diplomatic capital of African.

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Local Cuisine Takes to the Skies with Lufthansa Group

With a legacy of nearly 60 years connecting Japan with Europe, the airlines of the Lufthansa Group continue to strengthen their ties with the country by reintroducing local catering onboard flights from the Land of the Rising Sun to Europe.

Swiss International Airlines (SWISS) recently began serving Japanese in-flight meals on flights to and from Japan

Lufthansa reintroduced Japanese food for in-flight meals on flights to and from Japan in late 2023

Japanese cuisine is now available in all classes on Lufthansa and in Business class on SWISS

In recognition of Japan’s deep and unique culinary heritage, Lufthansa began serving local Japanese cuisine onboard flights to/from Japan from October 2023. Travellers on Japanese routes can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, sukiyaki and soba as they travel via our Frankfurt and Munich hubs. 

For example, customers aboard LH717 travelling from Tokyo to Frankfurt can enjoy Japanese meals, prepared masterfully by expert local chefs according to traditional recipes, in all cabin classes. Business class travellers can look forward to a specially curated gastronomical experience with a multi-course meal organized according to traditional Japanese culinary arrangements. Beginning with appetizers served in a kobachi and zensai to whet their appetites, the main course features an array of delicacies topped off with a comforting soup and konomono. Premium Economy and Economy passengers are also able to enjoy local Japanese meals on board. On First and Business class, dishes are prepared with the freshest ingredients and served on fine ceramic tableware, taking the experience of a traditional Japanese restaurant to the skies. Without the need to preorder, passengers boarding flights to/from Toyo or Osaka are offered a choice of local catering options aboard all Lufthansa flights.

Similarly with Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines has also recently introduced local catering with passengers offered their choice of Japanese menu choices onboard flights to/from Tokyo. Passengers are advised to pre-book their local Japanese meals when travelling to/from Tokyo with SWISS.

With our renewed local catering concepts aboard both Lufthansa and SWISS, Lufthansa Group remains committed to embracing Japanese culture and reinforcing our long-standing ties with the country.

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Fly Play sees a 65% increase in passenger numbers.

PLAY Airlines carried 142,918 passengers in March, which is a 65% increase from March last year when PLAY carried 86,661 passengers. PLAY´s load factor in March 2024 was 88.1% compared to 80.6% in March last year. The load factor in March 2024 is the highest load factor PLAY has had in a winter month.

Of the passengers flying with PLAY in March 2024, 25.6% were travelling from Iceland, 36% were flying to Iceland and 38.4% were connecting passengers (VIA). The ratio of passengers flying to Iceland shows that the demand for Iceland is picking up again after a slump followed by inaccurate global news coverage about the seismic activity in Iceland last year.

PLAY had an on-time performance of 94% in March, which is among the best on-time performances in the airline industry.

The demand for PLAY´s leisure destinations has been strong. Alicante, Lisbon, Madrid, Barcelona and Tenerife all had around 90% load factor. Our city destinations in Europe also saw a strong demand. London, Berlin, Paris, and Copenhagen had over 90% load factor, and Dublin and Amsterdam had nearly 90%.

Two new destinations

PLAY announced two new destinations in March, Madeira Island and Marrakech. PLAY will have its first flight to Marrakech on October 17 and will operate up to two weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. This will be the first time scheduled flights are operated between Iceland and Africa, but the flight time between Iceland and Marrakech is just over five hours.

The first flight to Madeira will be on October 15 and PLAY will operate weekly flights on Tuesdays.

Einar Örn Ólafsson, PLAY´s CEO:  "We had acceptable load figures in March with the early Easter period more than balancing out the negative impact of the seismic activities towards the end of 2023. The high summer season is ahead of us, and we look forward to breaking more records in PLAY’s history. The number of passengers travelling with us to Iceland and connecting passengers shows the tremendous work that has been done to increase our awareness in our foreign markets where we strive to offer competitive prices. I am extremely proud of our team, and our on-time performance in March shows the level of professionalism that my colleagues possess".

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