BOC Aviation Limited has confirmed the placement of three used Boeing 737- MAX 8 aircraft with longstanding customer the WestJet Group. All three aircraft are powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines and are scheduled for delivery in 2024.
“We are delighted to welcome WestJet, one of Canada’s leading airlines, back to our customer base. This deal is a testament to our long-term relationship and our ability to evolve and meet our airline customers’ fleet expansion needs,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. “With this transaction, we have provided WestJet with one of the world’s most popular single-aisle jets, delivering from our fleet that comprises 77% latest technology aircraft.”
“WestJet has an ambitious growth strategy, and working with a trusted partner like BOC Aviation supports us in meeting our growth expectations for 2024,” said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. “We are seeing the benefits of our strategy come to life across our network and the consistent growth of our fleet capacity is essential to maintaining our momentum.”
Additional aircraft expected to join WestJet Group operations in 2024, supporting capacity growth plans
The WestJet Group announced it will acquire an additional three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from BOC Aviation Limited. The three aircraft are expected to integrate into the WestJet Group's fleet and operations in 2024, following the completion of leasing agreements.
"We have an ambitious growth strategy, and the expansion of our fleet is critical to our mission of providing affordable air travel to Canadians," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "Working with a trusted partner like BOC Aviation supports us in meeting our growth expectations for 2024."
While WestJet guests will benefit from the additional capacity across the airline's network, the aircraft will not immediately reflect the interior cabin experience, synonymous with the WestJet Group. Updating and refreshing the interior cabins of the aircraft will be prioritized as part of the airlines' existing fleet reconfiguration plans, to ensure a consistent experience for guests across its operation as soon as possible.
"We are delighted to support our long-term customer, WestJet, in its network growth," said Steven Townend Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation. "Our provision of latest technology, fuel efficient aircraft will assist WestJet as it expands its business in the most cost-effective fashion."
"Two years ago, we set out a plan for growth that would maintain our position as both Canada's national leisure champion and western home carrier, while enhancing domestic connectivity from coast-to-coast," continued Scott. "We are seeing the benefits of our strategy come to life across our network and the consistent growth of our fleet capacity is essential to maintaining our momentum."
The UK's leading holiday airline, Jet2 has just released details from its winter 25/26 programme from London Stansted featuring four top ski destinations.
The carrier will operate flights to Chambery, Geneva, Grenoble and Salzburg from the airport next winter, giving skiers and snowboarders direct access to the French, Austrian and Swiss Alps. The airline says the flights will operate from December 2025 and throughout the winter season.
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “The feedback from customers is that they are wanting to book ahead and secure their place on the slopes for next winter. We are always listening to our customers and responding to what they are telling us, so have put a fantastic ski programme on sale for winter 25/26 from London Stansted Airport.
With four ski destinations on sale, we are giving skiers and snowboarders the chance to book ahead and get access to some of the best ski resorts in Europe. Whether it is for a weekend, short break or longer, we are offering snow sports enthusiasts plenty of choice and flexibility to hit the slopes.
Skiers and snowboarders travelling with Jet2.com next winter can take advantage of our VIP customer service and 22kg of baggage and ski allowance and, for this reason, we expect our Winter 25/26 Ski programme to be a huge success.”
Neringa Ohrstrom, Head of Brand and Marketing at London Stansted, said: “The launch of Jet2.com’s winter 25/26 ski programme is great news for the airport and perfect for skiers who wish to visit the best resorts in the Alps. London Stansted offers more European destinations than any other UK airport flying to the finest ski areas across the continent, making it the ideal starting point for a wonderful winter sports holiday.”
The full ski programme from Jet2.com for winter 25/26 from London Stansted is as follows:
The drones will be procured as part of the Drone Capability Coalition for Ukraine, co-led by the UK and Latvia.
In February, the UK and Latvia announced that they would lead the new Drone Capability Coalition, designed to rapidly supply Ukraine with tens of thousands of first person view drones.
Today, the UK and Latvia have opened the bidding for companies to supply FPV drones to Ukraine, on behalf of the Drone Capability Coalition. This competition aims to produce these drones at scale and at an affordable price point, leveraging the strength of Western industry.
Industry can find the details of how to apply via the Defence Sourcing Portal. This competition is open to industry from any nation in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group.
Companies have until 28 June 2024 to submit their proposals, which will then be considered by the Drone Capability Coalition members and evaluated. Successful companies will receive orders to supply drones to Ukraine and, upon receipt of positive operational feedback, the intent is to place larger, follow up orders for FPV drones. Additional FPV competitions are expected to take place through 2024, building on the lessons learned from this first competition.
First person view drones have proven highly effective on the battlefield since Russia’s full-scale invasion, providing Ukrainian operators with situational awareness to target enemy positions, armoured vehicles, and ships with explosive ordnance.
Members of the coalition include: UK, Latvia, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, and Ukraine. Further countries are considering joining the coalition.
The UK's Ministry of Defence confirmed the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long, from Bury St Edmunds, who was killed in the Battle of Britain Memorial flight Spitfire crash on Saturday. An investigation is underway into why the old warbird came down shortly after taking off from RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire around 13:20.
While studying Economics at the University of Warwick, Mark learnt to fly on the University of Birmingham Air Squadron. He graduated from Initial Officer Training in 2003 and was subsequently sent to RAF Linton on Ouse to fly the Tucano, gaining his ‘wings’ in 2004. His Advanced Flying Training was on the Hawk and he was selected to remain on 208(R) Squadron to take on the role of an Instructor.
On completion of his instructional tour, Mark converted to the Harrier GR7/9 and was posted to 1(F) Squadron, RAF Cottesmore. He was the last RAF Harrier pilot qualified to conduct operations off an aircraft carrier.
In 2012 Mark joined the Typhoon Force, and was assigned to XI Squadron at RAF Coningsby, before an assignment to 29 Squadron in 2014 on instructional duties. In 2016 he was the Typhoon Display Pilot. His primary role was to teach the student pilots how to operate the Typhoon.
In addition to his instructional duties, Mark contributed to RAF Coningsby’s primary task of defending UK sovereign airspace by undertaking Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) duties, both in the UK and in the British Forces South Atlantic Islands (Falklands Islands), and additionally conducting QRA duties whilst on Baltic Air Policing Operations in Lithuania.
Mark lived in Lincolnshire with his wife, two daughters and dog. 2024 was his fourth season with the BBMF.
Mark’s family said: "Mark lived his life with an unwavering passion with laughter, love, and dedication to his family. His talent for flying was there for all to see, and his ability to connect to everyone he met was infectious. Mark will be cherished and deeply missed by us all."
Squadron Leader Mark Sugden, Officer Commanding Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, said: "In life, we are occasionally privileged to meet incredible people like Mark. Mark touched the hearts of everyone that he met, always prioritising the needs of others before himself. The epitome of a military fighter pilot, he personified the very best of the Royal Air Force and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. We were lucky to have him as part of the team and part of our BBMF family. Always a vision of calm, Mark faced life’s obstacles with a wry smile, a knowing nod and a pint of tea. Above all, he was a devoted husband and a proud father. Whilst words alone cannot adequately convey our loss, he will remain forever “the best boss that BBMF never had."
Group Captain Samantha Bunn has been appointed as the new Provost Marshal (RAF) and Commander of the Air Security Force.
As Provost Marshal (RAF) Group Captain Bunn will be Chief of the RAF Police and is responsible to the Chief of the Air Staff and the Air Force Main Board for police investigations and the exercise of police authority. The RAF Police plays a central role in maintaining the security and resilience of the RAF by providing a unique blend of Law Enforcement, Counter Intelligence, Protective Security, which includes Military Working Dogs and, Aviation Security. Our Regular and Reserve military personnel, our civil servants and our contractors work continuously to protect, secure and enable the RAF to carry out successful Air and Space operations in the United Kingdom and across the world.
Group Captain Samantha Bunn said: “My appointment as the Provost Marshal (RAF) and Commander of the Air Security Force is the greatest honour for a member of the RAF Police fraternity. To lead the exceptional personnel of the RAF Police, MPGS, Civil Servants and Reservists within the Air Security Force is something I am incredibly proud of and look forward to the next 2 years where we will continue to enable Air and Space commands in the delivery of operations at home and across the globe."
Group Captain Bunn joined the Royal Auxiliary Air Force Regiment in 1995 prior to entering Regular service in 1998 as a Weapons Technician. Commissioning as a Provost Officer in 2003 she has served in a variety of appointments in the UK and Overseas. As a Special Investigations Branch Officer, she contributed to several high-profile investigations nationally and globally including the Peer Case Review which contributed to the Haddon-Cave Report. More recently, she commanded Number 2 RAF Police and Security Wing where she aligned the Wing to secure and protect 5th generation capabilities.
The U.S. budget carrier Sun Country Airlines has launched a new mobile app to enhance the travel experience for Sun Country customers. Travellers can now book travel, check-in for flights, use their mobile boarding pass, and manage their trips within the app. The app is now available in the Apple store and Google Play store.
“The new mobile app is part of a multi-year investment in enhancing our digital experience for our customers,” said Colton Snow, chief marketing officer for Sun Country. “In 2019, as part of the airline’s transformation into a low-cost carrier focused on leisure travel, Sun Country invested in a new reservation platform and mobile-friendly website that improved the customer experience in exploring destinations, booking, and managing their trips. The new app is a continuation of those tools for our customers.”
“In anticipation of a busy 2024 summer travel season, the airline is prioritizing a new digital experience and one-stop-shop travel solutions,” said Jim Stathopoulos, senior vice president and chief information officer for Sun Country. “More digital access for our customers will enhance their day of travel.”
In 2023, Sun Country also launched new self-service digital tools for customers experiencing extended delays. These automated customer emails and self-service tools make it simpler and quicker for customers to receive digital hotel and meal vouchers, refunds or choose alternate flight options.
“Our priority is to make it easier for our customers to book, re-book, or cancel and manage any changes to their flights on-the-go,” Snow added.
As for the timing of releasing an app now, Snow said, “More people book directly with us than ever before, and the website is working well for our customers. The time was right to focus on meeting our customers where they are during their day of travel, and the app is a next step to accomplish that.”
American Airlines Group Inc. has confirmed that Vasu Raja, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, will depart the airline in June.
Raja has served as American’s Chief Commercial Officer since April 2022. Previously he held the role of Chief Revenue Officer and Senior Vice President of Network Strategy, where he was responsible for Network and Alliances. He joined American in 2004 and has held a variety of roles in Sales, Planning and Revenue Management.
In addition to his current responsibilities and effective immediately, Stephen Johnson, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer, will assume leadership of the Commercial organization and help lead the search for a new Chief Commercial Officer.
Passengers at London Southend Airport can now leave liquids up to two litres in their cabin baggage, as the award-winning airport unveils new security equipment.
The technology, known as C3, also means that all electrical items such as laptops, iPads, tablets etc. can remain in a passengers’ bag.
As part of the upgrade to improve security, London Southend will now screen all passengers using security body scanners.
Marc Taylor, acting CEO of London Southend Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the new technology.
He said: “We are dedicated to providing our passengers with the safest and most operationally efficient travel experience and are thrilled to be one of only two major airports in London to have successfully made this transition across our security department.
Atlas’ fifth report showcases the Company’s advancement in fulfilling its sustainability objectives. Through sustained initiatives and programs, Atlas has made strides across the four key pillars in its sustainability strategy: Preserve Our Planet, Care for our People, Maximize Social Impact and Grow Responsibly.
“‘Caring for the World We Carry’ embodies our commitment to doing business the right way, and in 2023, we made meaningful progress in our sustainability performance. Through collaboration with our customers and strategic partners, we are championing initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability within aviation. We have also strengthened our workforce development programs, in line with our goals to serve as a catalyst for nurturing tomorrow's aviators, as we work to fulfill our mission to power our customers’ global supply chain,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “All our work is supported by a strong governance structure underscored by the appointment of the Company’s first Head of Sustainability.”
"It is an honour to lead Atlas' decarbonization strategy and work with our customers to help them achieve their business goals while also upholding our shared sustainability commitments," said Richard Broekman, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Sustainability. "Sustainability is integral to our operations, making a positive impact on both our business and our customers' supply chains. In 2023, we made strides in enhancing our decarbonization strategy, focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) procurement, operational efficiencies and fleet modernization. By partnering with industry leaders, we launched the Sustainable Engine Alliance and pioneered regular SAF use on cargo flights in Spain. We’re also spearheading unique collaborations aimed at advocating for wider SAF adoption, developing innovative carbon reduction solutions and optimizing operations with cutting-edge technologies. Despite challenges, our dedication to sustainability remains unwavering, propelling progress toward a greener future within the communities we serve."
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that IndiGo will host the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit in Delhi, India, on 8-10 June 2025.
“We look forward to gathering the aviation industry in Delhi, India’s gateway city, for the 81st IATA AGM in 2025. It’s been over four decades since the industry came together for an IATA AGM in Delhi. With record aircraft orders, impressive growth, and world-class infrastructure developments, India is firmly on the trajectory to become the world’s third largest aviation market within this decade. With such bright prospects, it’s the perfect time for the IATA AGM to return to India and witness these exciting developments first hand,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“IndiGo is proud to be host airline for the 81st IATA AGM and looks forward to welcoming the global aviation community to Delhi in 2025. India, becoming the third largest economy within the next few years and leading the fourth industrial revolution with the use of AI, is a nation on the move. India's rise in the global aviation landscape over the last years has been nothing short of remarkable, said Pieter Elbers, CEO, IndiGo.
“IndiGo has been giving wings to the nation since 2006 and increasingly also expands internationally. Building on aviation as a force for good and India’s unique diversity, we are looking forward to engaging in meaningful dialogues aimed at sculpting the global aviation landscape around important topics such as safety, diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as sustainability, while efficiently delivering the growing global demand for air travel,” said Elbers.
The decision to host the 81st IATA AGM in India was made at the 80th IATA AGM in Dubai. This will be the third time the IATA AGM has convened in Delhi, having previously visited India in 1958 and 1983.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian was joined onstage by six uniformed employees to accept the ATW Airline of the Year Award and Hall of Fame Honor in Dubai on Friday, May 31.
Delta has been named the 2024 Airline of the Year by aviation publication Air Transport World.
A celebration took place in Dubai the evening of Friday, May 31 with several Delta leaders and Joint Venture partners in attendance, along with representatives from across the global aviation community.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian was joined onstage by six uniformed employees to accept the award, representing Delta’s team of 100,000 around the globe.
“There are many things about our company that I'm very proud of,” Bastian said. “But it's not the great planes that we have, it's not the technologies we deploy, it’s not the airports that make us great – it’s our people. It’s the people of our company. They're the reason why we are number one.”
Delta’s outstanding operational performance, commitment to safety and premium customer service were listed by ATW as key factors in this year’s selection. The company’s efforts to create a more sustainable travel experience and to give back in its communities were also recognized.
The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee confirmed last week that the investigation into the death of a Schiphol Airport worker on 29 May has been concluded. They reported that the tragic incident occurred on the apron at Schiphol Airport, where a man fell into the running engine of an aircraft and died. The KLM aircraft was operating flight KL1341 which was bound for Billund. It had just completed the pushback procedure and was about to taxi to the runway.
The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee stated "The deceased man has been identified as an employee of a company operating at the airport. The investigation has revealed that he intentionally climbed into the engine, indicating this is a case of suicide. Out of respect for the victim and their loved ones, no further statements will be made."
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it will establish the SAF Registry (Registry) to accelerate the uptake of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) by authoritatively accounting and reporting emissions reductions from SAF.
Seventeen airlines, one airline group, six national authorities, three Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and one fuel producer are already supporting the effort to develop the Registry. The Registry is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2025.
SAF is expected to account for up to 65% of the total carbon mitigation needed to achieve net zero carbon emissions in air transportation by 2050.
“SAF is key to aviation’s decarbonization. Airlines want more SAF and stand ready to use every drop of it. The SAF Registry will help meet the critical needs of all stakeholders as part of the global effort to ramp-up SAF production. Governments need a trusted system to track the quality and quantities of SAF used. SAF producers need to accurately account for what has been delivered and effectively decarbonized. Corporate customers must be able to transparently account for their Scope 3 emissions. And airlines must have certainty that they can claim the environmental benefits of the SAF they purchased. The Registry will meet all these needs. In doing so, the Registry will help create a global SAF market by ensuring that airlines have access to SAF wherever it is produced, and that SAF producers have access to airlines regardless of their location,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Airbus will be presenting its new Wingman concept at the International Aerospace Exhibition ILA in Berlin. In military aviation, a “Wingman” is a pilot in another aircraft that protects and supports the flight lead, delivers more tactical options and thus contributes to mission success. In the Airbus concept, the Wingman is going to operate very much in the same way - only that it is neither a pilot nor a fighter jet flown by one. It is a fighter-type drone that will be commanded by a pilot in a current combat aircraft such as the Eurofighter and can take on high-risk mission tasks that would pose a bigger threat to manned-only aircraft.
The 1:1 model, which Airbus will be exhibiting from June 5 to 9 on its static display at ILA, is similar to a “show car” used as a design exercise by the automotive industry. The Wingman model showcases all of the foreseen capabilities required, such as low observability, the integration of various armaments, advanced sensors, connectivity and teaming solutions. As with “show cars”, not all of what is on display may find its way into series production. In this aspect, the model on display at ILA Berlin will serve as a foundation and catalyst to drive the design requirements for each generation of the Wingman.
Based on the current concept, the Wingman is intended to augment the capabilities of current manned combat aircraft with uncrewed platforms that can carry weapons and other effectors.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the winners of the 2024 edition of IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards:
- Inspirational Role Model: Kendra Kincade, CEO and Founder, Elevate Foundation
- High Flyer: Mafunase Ngosa Malenga, Founder and Managing Director, Southern Africa Institute of Aviation Science and Technology
- Diversity & Inclusion Team: British Airways
The judging panel also awarded a special commendation in the High Flyer category to Hana Al Awahdi, Senior Vice President, Human Resources Business Partner for dnata.
“The winners are true beacons of the change that is happening as diversity and inclusion entrenches itself as a strategic priority for the aviation industry. Their contributions to righting the gender balance in aviation are truly inspirational and deserving of today’s recognition,” said Yvonne Manzi Makolo, CEO of RwandAir and Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (2023-2024), who presented the awards.
“The quality of nominations gets more compelling every year as the results of aviation’s focus on diversity and inclusion become even more concrete. Real and important change has been affected by all the winners and our special commendation. By drawing attention to their impressive achievements, we hope to amplify that change even further,” said Karen Walker, Editor-in-Chief, Air Transport World and Chair of the judging panel.
“I congratulate the winners and all who were nominated. Ensuring that aviation is a great career choice for all genders is critical because it helps our businesses individually. It makes the industry stronger, and it is what our customers expect. All those nominated, and particularly the winners, have moved aviation in the right direction,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
The IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards are sponsored by Qatar Airways. Thanks to their generosity, each winner receives a prize of $25,000, payable to themselves or their nominated charities.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Qatar Airways is proud to once again sponsor the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards, shining the light on the incredible leaders that bring about positive change in the aviation industry. We congratulate this year’s winners on their remarkable achievements.”
The 2024 IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards were presented during the World Air Transport Summit (WATS), which followed the 80th IATA Annual General Meeting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
London Southend Airport has confirmed the appointment of its long-standing Director of Operations, Marc Taylor, as acting Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Current Chief Executive Officer John Upton, who joined the airport in September 2022, has decided to step down to pursue new opportunities.
Over the course of John’s tenure as Chief Executive Officer, London Southend has achieved several significant milestones on its path to post-Covid recovery, including a significant increase in destinations from three to 15, a return to year-round flying, a successful transition of ownership following its acquisition by Carlyle and Cyrus Capital Partners and, most recently, a multi-year deal with airline partner easyJet, which will see three based aircraft on-site from Summer 2025.
Having joined the airport in 1998, Marc brings significant experience and an in-depth understanding of London Southend’s operations, and, in his role as acting CEO, will be focused on continuing to drive operational performance and further scaling the business.
Marc Taylor said: “I am honoured to take on this role. My focus will be on continuing to provide travellers with exceptional customer service and building on the airport’s recent momentum. London Southend remains a key asset to Southend City and the East Anglia region, and I look forward to working alongside our highly skilled teams as we continue to capitalise on the many opportunities that lie ahead. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank John for his contribution and leadership over the last few years.”
The WestJet Group released its first annual accessibility plan progress report, one year following the launch of its inaugural accessibility plan. To further reduce barriers and enhance travel accessibility for persons with disabilities, the report outlines three new service enhancements for guests travelling with wheelchairs or similar mobility aids.
"Across the WestJet Group, we remain wholly committed to delivering the services all our guests require, while proactively addressing accessibility issues across the travel journey," said Angela Avery, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief People, Corporate and Sustainability Officer. "Every year, we serve more than a quarter million guests who request accessibility support as part of their travel and our teams on the frontline and behind the scenes strive to meet their diverse needs. We have made significant investments over the past year to remove barriers to travel and these enhancements will better serve our guests with disabilities and our people supporting them throughout their journey."
Updates to wheelchair size & weight policy and handling protocols
Following a comprehensive review of its fleet and associated equipment, such as baggage lifts, WestJet has expanded the size and weight limitations for mobility devices. By adjusting these limitations, the airline will now accept a broader range of mobility aids, increasing the accessibility of travelling with WestJet for more guests. Additionally, the airline has adopted a standard industry practice, which ensures powered mobility devices are exclusively handled in a fully upright position, helping safeguard the devices throughout the travel journey. More details on these updates are available here.
Confirmation of loading of checked mobility devices
A consortium of Japanese businesses led by NTT DOCOMO, Inc.and Space Compass Corporation, together with Mizuho Bank Limited and the Development Bank of Japan Inc., has committed to invest USD$100m in AALTO HAPS Limited, which manufactures and operates the stratospheric, solar-powered Zephyr High Altitude Platform Station. The investment will be made through the Japanese Consortium’s investment vehicle, HAPS JAPAN Corporation.
This investment marks the beginning of a strategic alliance to commercialise connectivity and earth observation services using HAPS in Japan and across Asia. It will also support the industrial and commercial roadmap for AALTO’s services, targeting launch in Japan and a global entry-into-service in 2026.
Flying for months at a time in the stratosphere, Zephyr offers game-changing capabilities that will be transformative for mobile connectivity and earth observation. As a payload agnostic platform, Zephyr can transform into a multi-functional tower in the sky to provide low latency 5G direct-to-device mobile connectivity services. Leveraging Airbus’s earth observation service, Strat-Observer, Zephyr can also be used to fulfil a range of monitoring, tracking, sensing and detection applications. AALTO is therefore well-positioned for a variety of use cases, such as expanding mobile network operator (MNO) coverage and providing high-capacity connectivity including during Japan's response to natural disasters.
Consortium of leading Japanese businesses and banks commit to invest USD$100m in Airbus subsidiary AALTO
Investment accelerates industrial and commercial roadmap for Zephyr, the world-leading High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS), and establishes strategic alliance for HAPS commercialisation in Asia
Japan taking leading position in HAPS-based non-terrestrial networks (NTN), with NTT DOCOMO to take the lead in the direct-to-device connectivity sector
NTT DOCOMO’s terrestrial mobile connectivity expertise, combined with advanced earth observation solutions from Airbus Defence and Space, to create powerful group of AALTO shareholders
Air Canada today announced the strategic expansion of its international network to India, adding 40 per cent more seat capacity beginning late October for the Winter 2024-25 season. Highlights of the carrier's new services include the only non-stop flights from Canada to India's financial capital, Mumbai, improved service from Western Canada to Delhi with the introduction of new seasonal daily flights over London Heathrow and daily flights from Montreal to Delhi. In total, Air Canada will operate 25 weekly flights to India, the most comprehensive offering of any carrier between Canada and India. Seats on all flights are available for purchase now at aircanada.com, via the Air Canada App and through travel agents.
Only non-stop Canada-Mumbai route launches Oct. 27, operating four-times weekly from Toronto
Increased Air Canada connectivity from Western Canada to India with new daily seasonal Calgary-Delhi flights via London Heathrow beginning Oct. 27
Vancouver-London flights connect conveniently to Delhi this winter via London Heathrow
Montreal-Delhi flights boosted to daily; route capacity increases 44 per cent
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"India is an important market for Air Canada, reflecting longstanding and growing family and trade ties between our two countries. We are thrilled to expand our network to Mumbai and Delhi by building additional scale at our hubs in time for Diwali festivities this fall. With new non-stop flights from Toronto to Mumbai, the addition of new flights to Delhi from Western Canada via London Heathrow, together with the unparalleled connectivity from our robust North American network, we are solidifying Air Canada as the leading airline offering the most travel options between Canada and India. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President – Revenue and Network Planning at Air Canada.
Air Canada will operate 25 weekly flights representing 7,400 seats each week this winter from Canada to India, comprising up to 11 weekly flights from Toronto to Delhi and Mumbai, daily flights from Montreal to Delhi and daily flights to Delhi from Western Canada via London Heathrow.
Toronto-Mumbai* schedule:
The only non-stop flight from Canada to Mumbai, linking two of the largest cities in both countries
Flights will be operated with Boeing 777-200LR aircraft featuring a choice of Air Canada Signature Class, Premium Economy and Economy class service
Schedule facilitates convenient connections from across North America to/from Air Canada's primary global hub
Qatar Airways is in talks with plane makers Airbus and Boeing, for a major wide-body order, its chief executive said on Monday.
CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer told reporters a report that the airline was in talks with Airbus to order A350 and Boeing 777X wide-body jets was largely correct.
Bloomberg News reported on Sunday that the airline was in discussions to buy some 200 aircraft split between Airbus and Boeing. Al Meer confirmed talks for a three-digit order but said the number of jets being mentioned was off by around 30%. He declined to say if it was higher or lower than the reported figure.
El Al Israel Airlines has signed a new codeshare deal with the UK's Virgin Atlantic to start from 19 June 2024.
Under this new agreement, customers of both airlines will be able to fly on the Tel Aviv-London Heathrow route on flights operated by El Al and Virgin with a common code - El Al's code will be added to Virgin's flights and Virgin's will be added to El Al's flights.
Virgin, which is 49% owned by Delta Air Lines, is a member of the Sky Team Alliance. El Al has also recently signed codeshare deals with Delta, Scandinavian Airlines and Air France. Virgin Atlantic will resume flights between London Heathrow and Israel in September, the airline confirmed this week, with a daily flight in each direction between Heathrow and Tel Aviv using Airbus A330 aircraft from 5th September.
Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer, Virgin Atlantic, commented: “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary this month, we know that giving our customers more choice and award-winning service in the skies is what fuels our success, alongside working with the best partners. We’re delighted to launch codeshares with our SkyTeam partners at SAS and Saudia today, enhancing our connectivity and offering greater customer benefits to our frequent flyers, who will be able to achieve rewards faster.
“Our return to Tel Aviv on 5 September will be welcome news for customers who have enjoyed our service since 2019, and this time round it’ll be strengthened by our new codeshare partnership with EL AL.”
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported a 28% decrease in the amount of airline funds blocked from repatriation by governments. The total blocked funds at the end of April stood at approximately $1.8 billion, a reduction of $708 million (28%) since December 2023.
IATA reiterated the call for governments to remove all barriers to airlines repatriating their revenues from ticket sales and other activities in accordance with international agreements and treaty obligations.
"The reduction in blocked funds is a positive development. The remaining $1.8 billion, however, is significant and must be urgently addressed. The efficient repatriation of airline revenues is guaranteed in bilateral agreements. Even more importantly, it is a pre-requisite for airlines—who operate on thin margins—to be able to provide economically critical connectivity. No business can operate long-term without access to rightfully earned revenues,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
The main driver of the reduction was a significant clearance of funds blocked in Nigeria. Egypt also approved the clearance of its significant accumulation of blocked funds. However, in both cases, airlines were adversely affected by the devaluation of the Egyptian Pound and the Nigerian Naira.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, has assumed his duties as Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (BoG). His one-year term began at the conclusion of the 80th IATA Annual General Meeting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 3 June.
Elbers is the 82nd Chair of the IATA BoG. He served earlier on the BoG between 2016 and 2022 as KLM’s President and CEO and was reappointed to the Board in 2022 shortly after he became IndiGo’s CEO. He succeeds RwandAir CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo who will continue to serve on the BoG.
“It is indeed an honor to assume this role at a time when India is emerging as one of the world's largest and fastest growing civil aviation markets and evolving into a formidable force in the airline industry. Adhering to IATA’s legacy of aviation as a force for good, we will continue in our focus of highlighting the benefits of aviation in building connections, augmenting trade, tourism and mobility—benefits also so visible in India. At the same time, it is imperative that we persist in our commitment towards a more diverse, equitable and inclusive and also more sustainable aviation industry, creating positive change for generations to come. IATA plays a pivotal role in establishing global standards; I am eager to continue collaborating with global industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders towards our collective goals,” said Elbers.
Elbers has over 30 years of broad experience in the aviation industry. He has been CEO of IndiGo since September 2022 and has taken IndiGo on a journey of expansion and internationalization since. Prior to joining IndiGo, he served for eight years as President and CEO of KLM. He started his career at KLM in 1992 as Manager Aircraft Loading and has held various key executive positions with KLM in The Netherlands, Japan, Greece, and Italy.
easyJet has confirmed it will launch a new year-round route between Liverpool and Malta. Flights will take off for the first time on 10th December 2024 and operate twice a week on Tuesdays and Sundays all year-round.
The new route to Malta will be the fourth the airline has added to its Liverpool network in the last 12 months, following new services being introduced to Enfida in Tunisia, Hurghada in Egypt and the Greek island of Corfu.
Famed for its beautiful coastlines, crystal clear waters and more that 3.000 hours of sunshine a year, Malta is an archipelago of islands situated in the heart of the Mediterranean steeped in rich history and offers plenty to explore whether for a cultural getaway, relaxing beach break or scuba diving adventure.
Package holidays to Malta are also available to book through easyJet holidays, with a mix of all-inclusive resorts from the 4* db San Antonio Hotel and Spa offering an array of facilities for the whole family, to adults-only luxury with the 4* Seaview Hotel located in St Pauls Bay. Enjoy panoramic sea views and sunsets from the rooftops infinity pool, plus an array of a la carte restaurants to dine in.
Commenting on the new route, Ali Gayward, Malta Country manager, easyJet, said: “We are delighted to be announcing another new route from Liverpool, to Malta, providing our customers in the North West with even greater choice and connectivity to more of Europe’s best holiday destinations, all with great value fares and friendly service, and we look forward to welcoming them on board.”
Paul Winfield, Aviation Director for LJLA said: “We are delighted to welcome this new service to Malta with easyJet – a destination that we know is popular with holidaymakers from across the Liverpool City Region and beyond.
With just 9% of all flights to Malta from the North West currently served from Liverpool, this route has significant opportunity to grow from here, with more passengers from across the North West now able to take advantage of all the benefits of jetting off on holiday to Malta from Liverpool.”
.jpg "Daily flights to Tel Aviv to restart in September. Image Virgin Atlantic")
