Alaska Airlines announces major expansion of First Class and Premium seating

This expansion will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to Alaska's mainline fleet, providing passengers with even more opportunities to upgrade to a premium experience  Starting in September, Alaska Airlines will begin rolling out additional First Class and Premium Class seating across more than 200 aircraft, including 900ERs, 800s and MAX9s. This expansion will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to the mainline fleet. Earlier this year, the carrier successfully retrofitted its entire regional fleet, adding 400,000 Premium Class seats to the Embraer E175 aircraft.

New seating configuration 737-800 (current—new)

New seating configuration 737-900ER / MAX9 (current—new)

More First Class and Premium seating   By increasing the number of seats available in these classes, Alaska are making it easier than ever for passengers to upgrade while also meeting the growing demand for premium seating.  First Class  In partnership with RECARO, Alaska Airlines further enhances its offering to provide passengers with ultimate comfort seats that are featured in the new First Class seats that have been installed on the Boeing 737-800 fleet. These new seats offer the most legroom and features include a calf rest, new seatback device holder, 6-way headrest with neck support and USB-C charging capabilities.

Premium Class & Main Cabin  In Main Cabin and Premium Class of the 737-800 fleet, passengers will continue to experience comfort and convenience at every seat with improved features, including new device holders with built in cup holders, USB-C charging and a 6-way headrest with dedicated neck support.  As the airline modifies the 737-900ER fleet to increase Premium Class by converting six of the Main Cabin seats, these aircraft will receive an interior refresh, bringing modern touches like device holders in the main cabin to the backbone of our fleet. All 737 MAX 9 aircraft, among the newest in the fleet, will also get six additional seats converted to their Premium cabins, enhancing the comfort and luxury the airline offers customers.

Air Canada’s Best and Complete Content Now Available Through Sabre NDC

Sabre Corporation, a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, and Air Canada, Canada's largest airline, today announced the launch of Air Canada's full content via NDC in Sabre's travel marketplace. This launch empowers travel agencies to consume Air Canada's expanded NDC offers and services, enabling them to provide a more personalized travel experience to the customers they serve.  

As of July 17, 2024, travel agents and other travel sellers can shop, book, and service Air Canada NDC offers alongside traditional EDIFACT content and low-cost and ancillary XML options. NDC is now available in the following markets: Canada, Australia, Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India[1], Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom and the United States. Following the launch in these countries, focus will turn to activating new markets based on demand.

"This partnership with Sabre marks a significant step forward in Air Canada’s NDC program," said Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Digital, Air Canada. "From local independent agencies to large corporate travel management companies, our travel trade partners were, are, and will always be crucial to Air Canada’s commercial success. That’s why we’re committed to working collaboratively on a smooth transition, enabling the trade to connect with Air Canada using their preferred and familiar methods. Sabre's marketplace plays a vital role in the travel ecosystem, making NDC content readily available to travel agents and buyers across the world, providing a consistent and efficient booking experience across all channels.”

NetJets opens exclusive-use facility at Teterboro Airport

NetJets, the global leader in private aviation, announces the expansion of its real estate footprint via more than a dozen projects across top markets in the United States, including the New York tri-state area and Arizona. By investing in both existing and new facilities, including NetJets Service Hubs™, the company will continue providing its customers, who are respectfully referred to as “Owners,” with an elevated, personalized brand experience and seamless access to their aircraft.

NetJets controls the greatest market share of New York flight volume—and has for some time. This is because it is the busiest location for NetJets Owners. For these reasons, the industry leader plans to completely renovate and rebrand its primary fixed-base operator (FBO) at the Teterboro airport in New Jersey. After significant improvements are made in collaboration with Signature Aviation, the space will become accessible only to NetJets Owners. The enhanced, dedicated space will include many of the amenities and features found in other NetJets exclusive-use terminals, including a private ramp and hangar space, a new Owner lounge, VIP conference rooms, a refreshment station, dedicated parking, and a host of other amenities—all to ensure flawless transitions on arrivals and departures, beginning in 2025.

This summer, operations will also commence on an exclusive-use NetJets Service Hub in Scottsdale, Arizona. This will be the company’s first new-build Service Hub, amongst a global network of facilities that are strategically located where Owners travel the most. In addition to proactive aircraft maintenance and restocking that is offered at all NetJets Service Hubs, this new space, operated in partnership with Jet Aviation, will provide VIP conference rooms, a private lobby, a scenic outdoor patio with mountain views, vehicular ramp access, covered parking, and more—exclusively for NetJets Owners. Additionally, NetJets’ plan for expansion in the West includes breaking ground this year on a new space in Las Vegas, joining its recently opened dedicated terminal in Bozeman, Montana. The entirely new two-hangar Las Vegas FBO, to open in 2027, will feature a dedicated terminal, lobby, and parking. Other real estate growth initiatives are in various phases of development at the following locations: Eagle, Colo. (EGE), Atlanta (PDK), Bedford, Mass. (BED), Austin, Texas (AUS), and Dallas (DAL), amongst others.

American Express opens a Centurion Lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

American Express will open a new Centurion Lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Terminal 2, past the South Security Checkpoint. At nearly 12,000 square feet, the lounge’s design celebrates the rich history and architecture of the nation’s capital along with a collection of art commissioned by local artists. 

For the first time ever in a Centurion Lounge, guests can enjoy popular dishes from three-award-winning chefs who have created exceptional menus for the Centurion Lounges in Miami, San Francisco and Philadelphia, Chef Michelle Bernstein, Chef Ravi Kapur, and Chef Michael Solomonov. The lounge also features a specialty drink menu and wine list1 reflective of the DC-metro area curated by Jim Meehan, Centurion Lounge Mixologist, and Anthony Giglio, Centurion Lounge Wine Director. The lounge, which has floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in natural light and offer views of the airfield and the Potomac River, is open Sunday – Friday from 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. ET and Saturday from 5:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. ET.

“The Centurion Lounge is one of our Card Members’ favourite travel benefits, and the new location at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport offers Card Members the premium amenities they love in an airport they frequently travel through,” said Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel. “With a menu curated by three award-winning chefs, dedicated workstations, access to complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, quiet nooks for relaxation and more, there’s something for every type of traveller to enjoy.”

"The Centurion Lounge provides a premium experience for our travellers,” said Jack Potter, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority president and CEO. "Congratulations to American Express for creating a lounge that reflects the Washington, D.C. region. We are confident that customers will enjoy this new amenity.”

Curated Menu Featuring Popular Dishes by Top Centurion Lounge Chefs

For the first time ever in a Centurion Lounge, guests can enjoy a curated menu by three award-winning chef partners: Michelle Bernstein, Ravi Kapur, and Michael Solomonov. It features some of Card Members’ favourite Centurion Lounge dishes, including Creamy Polenta, Shabazi Spiced Salmon with Pomegranate BBQ Sauce, and Tamari-Honey Glazed Tofu & Pineapple, giving global travellers a taste of Latin, Israeli, and Hawaiian cuisines.

Chef Michelle Bernstein is a Miami-based, James Beard Award-winning chef with many successful restaurants in Miami, including Café La Trova and La Cañita, as well as Miami Beach cocktail bar Sweet Liberty, and more. Her cooking, which can also be found at the Centurion Lounge at Miami International Airport, is inspired by her culinary memories and global travels.

easyJet launches more new routes including flights to Luxor in Egypt

easyJet has announced today it is launching four new routes from three UK airports, including to Luxor in Egypt for the first time in over a decade.

The announcement follows releases last month of 36 new routes from the UK meaning the airline is now offering 41 new routes from this winter across Europe and North Africa including brand new destinations such as City of Derry airport in Northern Ireland, Tromso in Norway and Strasbourg in France.

Flights to Luxor will launch on 11 November from London Gatwick with twice weekly departures on Mondays and Thursdays. Known for its ancient temples and tombs, Luxor is home to famous monuments such as the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings and the tomb of Tutankhamun, one of Egypt's most famous pharaohs, making it the perfect culture trip for history buffs.

For first time easyJet holidays will offer a river cruise package holiday to Luxor, with seven night Nile River cruises in partnership with Jaz Hotels and Resorts. Holidaymakers will be able to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Nile River, the expansive lush green fields and desert mountains in this unique travel experience sailing from Luxor through to Edfu and Aswan, before returning to Luxor to visit the world-renowned Karnak open air museum.

4* and 5* star hand-picked Luxor hotels are also available to book with easyJet holidays, providing ultimate luxury at brilliant value and in close proximity to all the sites and experiences the area has to offer.

United Airlines Announces Second-Quarter 2024 Financial Results; Achieves 2Q EPS Expectations

United's key revenue diversity advantages – Premium revenue, Basic Economy revenue and market share shift among domestic road warriors – gained additional momentum in 2Q

                        United Airlines today reported second-quarter 2024 financial results. The company had pre-tax earnings of $1.7 billion, with a pre-tax margin of 11.6%; adjusted pre-tax earnings¹ of $1.8 billion, with an adjusted pre-tax margin¹ of 12.1%. The company expects pre-tax margin to be near the top of the industry. The company also achieved diluted earnings per share of $3.96; adjusted diluted earnings per share¹ of $4.14, in line with second-quarter 2024 guidance provided at the start of the quarter. The company continues to expect full-year 2024 adjusted diluted earnings per share² of $9 to $11.

For nearly two years, the airline has been anticipating significant domestic capacity reductions recently announced by a variety of U.S. airlines this summer and mid-August is an inflection point, with published schedule changes showing an approximately 3 point decline in industry capacity growth rate. The airline expects three critical revenue diversity advantages that propelled it to the top of the industry during this challenging period to further accelerate. The first, premium revenue, grew 8.5% in the second quarter versus the same quarter last year. The second, Basic Economy revenue, grew 38% year-over-year during the quarter. The third, market share among domestic road warriors, increased during the quarter year-over-year.  

"The revenue diversity advantages that we've built with our premium customers, Basic Economy customers, and domestic road warriors, on top of the world's best loyalty program and leading customer service, have propelled our margins to near the top of the industry," said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. "Looking forward, we see multiple airlines have begun to cancel loss-making capacity, and we expect leading unit revenue performance among our largest peers in the second half of the third quarter. United has long been preparing for the moment when industry wide domestic capacity would adjust - it's now clear that inflection point is just 30 days away."

United has also continued to strategically manage the business in the face of industry wide challenges. United reduced costs and delivered CASM of down 4.8% and better-than-expected CASM-ex¹ of up 2.1%. The airline also generated net cash provided by operating activities of $2.9 billion and $1.9 billion of free cash flow¹ in the quarter. In early July, the company voluntarily prepaid the remaining balance of the high-cost MileagePlus term loan, totaling $1.8 billion, which further strengthens its balance sheet and reduces the airline's interest burden in the years ahead. The airline ended the quarter with trailing twelve months adjusted net debt to EBITDAR of 2.6x³. Looking ahead, United has also reduced planned domestic capacity by approximately 3 points in the fourth quarter, compared to the company's previous plan – reflecting the airline's firm commitment to taking its own action to adjust to current trends.

New Air Canada Paris 2024 Spot Celebrates How One Canadian Dream Can Inspire Another

New Air Canada Paris 2024 Spot Celebrates How One Canadian Dream Can Inspire Another Brand spot from Official Airline of Team Canada tells moving story connecting the journeys of New Canadians and Olympic and Paralympic Athletes

 

Air Canada has launched Ticket to Dream, a powerful new brand spot celebrating Team Canada's heroic journey to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The spot will be released on Air Canada’s social platforms on July 17 and premiere on TV, cinema and online on July 26, helping stoke excitement among Team Canada and its devoted fans during the official opening ceremony for the Games.  

Ticket to Dream stands as the centrepiece of Air Canada’s wider Olympic and Paralympic campaign, which will champion Team Canada's pursuit of glory this summer and unite Canadian fans in Paris and at home, through exciting activations that proudly share the best of Canada with the world.

"We're immensely proud to honour Team Canada's athletes, whose relentless spirit and drive in pursuing their dreams is truly inspirational," says Andy Shibata, Vice President, Brand at Air Canada. "Our Ticket to Dream spot brings together the drama and emotion of that journey while paying homage to the resilience of both our athletes and many Canadians inspiring all of us ahead of the world’s most prestigious sporting event.”

The Royal Aeronautical Society calls on new government to focus on modernisation, sustainability, air power, space, innovation and skills

The new government has a vital role in keeping the UK globally-connected, and secure by maximising the value of UK aerospace and driving sustainability, air power and space, innovation, and upskilling, says the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) in publishing its position paper today.

Aerospace and aviation connect people, business, and countries, whilst generating value for the nation, creating high-value jobs, and contributing to the protection and security of its citizens.

The position paper calls on the government to:

 

1.   Modernise Our Aviation Infrastructure with Safe and Secure, Sustainable, and Innovative Technologies

A strategic approach for safe and secure infrastructure modernisation, focusing on sustainable development and the incorporation of green technologies to meet environmental targets is an imperative.  As we move towards 2025 and beyond, the UK's focus on modernising its aerospace systems and infrastructure to support global mobility will require a collaborative effort. Commercial aviation is at a turning point with consideration being given to alternative solutions and fuels which will inevitably require government support. By leveraging technological innovations, and prioritising safety and sustainability, the UK can maintain its position in the global aerospace arena, ensuring a secure, connected, and prosperous future.

 

2.    Increase Air Power and Space Capability

The government as a priority should urgently address gaps in vital air power capability and accelerate investment in the creation of an agile, resilient, and technologically advanced air force to ensure the UK remains well defended and secure and maintains its role in supporting global security. It is essential for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to move forward at pace. Space exploration and satellite technology are also of vital strategic importance for national security, global telecommunications, and Earth observation. The Government should support UK growth in this sector and its integration with the global space economy. The government cannot afford to neglect air power and space defence considering the growing geo-political challenges facing the world over the coming decade.

 

3.    Accelerate Regulatory Frameworks for Future Flight Technology

The government should accelerate the development of new legal and regulatory frameworks with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), as well as maintaining access to EU frameworks through the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Creating flexible, forward-looking regulatory frameworks will be paramount in harnessing the potential of future flight technologies. This approach will ensure the UK's airspace remains safe, competitive, and conducive to innovation, positioning the country as a leader in the next generation of aviation and aerospace development.

4.    Maximise Economic Benefits

Investment in aerospace, aviation, and space remains vital for the UK’s economic growth and national security. An investment-friendly environment should include regulatory stability, tax incentives, and streamlined procurement processes. The government will need to sustain, multi-year investment in industry to support the UK’s global competitiveness. Any new strategic approach by the government should be underpinned by providing an attractive investment environment, addressing on-going workforce shortages, and putting the UK on a more resilient, competitive footing.

5.    Develop Future and Existing Talent

To maintain a steady stream of skilled personnel into the sector, including pilots and engineers, the government should ensure that vocational training and STEM is accessible to everyone to prepare the next generation of aerospace engineers, technicians, and scientists. This includes expanding apprenticeship programs, enhancing university-industry collaboration, and ensuring diversity and inclusion within the workforce through professional careers advice and support in schools from an early age to industrial placements with technical colleges and universities. The government can play a stronger coordinating role to maximise the initiatives and programmes in addressing the current skills gap. 

 

Setting out the Society’s priorities for the new government RAeS Chief Executive, David Edwards FRAeS said:   “From the outset the new government should continue to invest in essential air power capability, enable the sustainable growth of aviation through research with alternative fuels, invest in new airport infrastructure and airspace modernisation, optimise the economic potential of future flight vehicles and satellite and space technology, and help maintain a steady flow of diverse talent in the industry. 

With the active support from and in partnership with the government the aerospace sector can help achieve these goals and assure the UK’s leading position in air connectivity, maintaining international competitiveness and keeping the country secure.

The Royal Aeronautical Society looks forward to working with the new government to realise the full potential of the sector.”

position-paper.

.

Saudia Group tours Airbus facility in Hamburg, Germany

Senior representatives from Saudia Group, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, visited the Airbus factory in Hamburg yesterday, 16th July, 2024 to mark the news that Saudia has signed a milestone deal with Airbus, the largest in Saudi aviation history.

Saudia Group signed the largest aircraft deal in the history of Saudi aviation with Airbus in May 2024, securing 105 A320neo Family aircraft.

The partnership allocates 54 A321neo aircraft to Saudia and 51 to flyadeal, comprising 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo models respectively

This acquisition enhances Saudia's fleet, positioning it among the world's most modern, thereby bolstering its global aviation stature and aiming to further Saudia Group's objective of connecting the world to the Kingdom.

The deal underscores Saudia Group's commitment to enhancing global connectivity and solidifies its leadership in regional and global aviation markets. The expansion of Saudia's fleet not only supports increased flight frequencies and network expansion but also reinforces its role in bridging continents.

The deal enhances the Kingdom's long-term strategic goals and contributes to achieving Vision 2030 objectives, aiming to transport 330 million travellers, accommodate 150 million visits, and serve 30 million pilgrims.

Further capacity across Saudia Group’s fleet will strengthen Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for entertainment, sports, and major events, bolstering its global influence. The deal boosts local content, fosters business entrepreneurship, and fuels sustainable economic growth for the Kingdom.

Emphasising a holistic investment strategy, the deal will also prioritise local workforce development and technology transfer, fostering innovation across the aviation sector, and contributing to local content worth an estimated SAR 2.5 billion by transforming the Saudi SME sector into essential contributors within Airbus' global supply chain.

Wrexham AFC Up, Up and Away with United Airlines

Flying high with United! Newly promoted Wrexham AFC men’s first team and Wrexham AFC Women take off from London Heathrow Terminal 2, the Queen’s Terminal, on their highly anticipated ‘Wrex Coast Tour’ across North America, where the women’s team will make their US debut.

Wrexham AFC’s summer tour follows hot on the heels of United’s latest exciting chapter in their official front-of shirt sponsorship, with the release of ReUnited, an original documentary that tells the heartwarming story of five Wrexham fans travelling from Patagonia to Wrexham for the first time, as well as the airline’s new, limited-edition Wrexham AFC inflight amenity kits and pyjamas, currently available for travellers flying in United’s premium cabins on long-haul international routes.

For the 2024-2025 season, United is excited to continue its partnership with the Wrexham AFC team and fans that represent the best of what professional sports has to offer. With Wrexham AFC’s recent promotion to League One and surge in global popularity with the Emmy® award-winning show FX’s “Welcome to Wrexham”, the team, city and fans around the world are united as never before.

 

United has been serving the U.K. for over 30 years and this summer is offering up to 20 daily flights from London Heathrow to its hubs at Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington/Dulles. United also offers year-round service from Edinburgh to New York/Newark and seasonal service from Edinburgh to Chicago and Washington/Dulles.

.  

The British Aerospace ATP......

The British Aerospace ATP (Advanced Turbo-Prop) aircraft represents a significant milestone in British aviation history, combining advanced technology with practical design to serve regional air travel needs efficiently. 

History and Background

The BAe ATP was developed by British Aerospace in the 1980s as an upgraded version of the Hawker Siddeley HS 748. It was introduced during a period marked by increasing concerns over fuel efficiency and noise pollution, which significantly influenced its design. The ATP made its maiden flight on August 6, 1986, and entered commercial service in 1988. The aircraft was primarily assembled at BAe's Woodford and Prestwick facilities, with airframe and wing manufacturing conducted at the Chadderton plant.

Despite its promising start, production of the ATP ceased in 1996, with a total of 65 units built. The aircraft found a niche in regional air travel and cargo operations, thanks to its robust design and versatility.

The BAe ATP was designed to address the demands for quieter and more fuel-efficient aircraft. Key design features include:

Stretched Fuselage: Compared to its predecessor, the ATP features a longer fuselage, allowing for a maximum seating capacity of 72 passengers. This design improvement enhanced its appeal for regional airlines.

   

Advanced Engines: The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW126 turboprop engines, which provide greater fuel efficiency and reduced noise. These engines drive six-bladed Hamilton Standard propellers, contributing to the aircraft's superior performance.

Aerodynamic Enhancements: The ATP boasts improved aerodynamics, including a redesigned wing with a larger wingspan and optimized lift characteristics. These enhancements result in better fuel efficiency and a smoother flight experience.

Noise Reduction: One of the ATP's significant advancements is its noise reduction capability. The combination of quieter engines and advanced propeller design ensures minimal noise pollution, making it ideal for operations in noise-sensitive airports.

Operational Performance

F-35 milestone as 809 Naval Air Squadron completes first independent sortie

The phoenix has risen.

For the first time an F-35B Lightning stealth fighter belonging to 809 Naval Air Squadron, flown by an 809 pilot, maintained, dispatched and recovered solely by 809 personnel, has conducted an operational sortie.

The squadron stood-up after a four-decade-long absence at the end of last year, joining the RAF’s legendary 617 ‘Dambusters’ Squadron as one of two front-line formations delivering fifth-generation fighter punch via the nation’s most advanced aircraft… and the sword of the UK’s two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.

When not embarked on the flattops, the two stealth fighter squadrons – both comprising RN and RAF pilots and personnel, making them interchangeable when 809 is fully operational – call RAF Marham near King’s Lynn their home. 

Since re-forming in December, 809 has been growing in number, its men and women working hard alongside 617 Squadron to expand the number of personnel and complete training to allow them to operate independently.

Thai AirAsia X to move all flight operations back to Don Mueang Airport from 1 October 2024

 In support of the Government's plan to establish Thailand as a regional aviation hub and to provide better and seamless connectivity to its guests, Thai AirAsia X (XJ) will be relocating all of its flight operations to Don Mueang Airport (DMK) starting 1 October 2024. 

The relocation follows successful coordination with, and is being facilitated by Airports of Thailand Plc. and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand. Thai AirAsia X currently operates from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Effective 1 October, Thai AirAsia X guests flying to Seoul, South Korea; Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Sapporo in Japan; Shanghai, China and Sydney, Australia will be departing from Don Mueang Airport. 

The relocation is a strategic move by Thai AirAsia X in creating more opportunities for connections to the larger AirAsia networks, both domestic and international, while providing visitors more convenient access to inner Bangkok.

VINCI Airports – Traffic to 30 June 2024

Passenger traffic rose 8.2% in the second quarter compared with 2023 (7.5% excluding Edinburgh and Budapest)

Passenger traffic rose sharply in Edinburgh and Budapest, the two airports that joined the VINCI Airports network in June

Almost 81 million passengers travelled through airports in the VINCI Airports network this quarter, rising 8.2% compared to 2023 (1.8% higher than in 2019). After April figures slightly lower than the 2019 level, passenger traffic rebounded in May and June, outpacing 2019 levels.

This very good Q2 performance is due in particular to sustained traffic growth in the network’s European airports. The high proportion of bank holidays in May this year boosted flights to holiday destinations in southern Europe, which attracted large numbers of passengers, served by capacity increases among low-cost airline companies. In Portugal, passenger numbers continued to grow at a rapid pace for the great majority of airports and for all flight-length segments. Funchal airport (Madeira) even recorded historic passenger numbers for a month of May (up 52 % vs 2019). In France, traffic rose to record levels for May at Nantes, thanks to routes with Spain, the United Kingdom and Portugal. Belgrade airport benefitted in Q2 from the increase in services (Air Serbia up 6%, Lufthansa 9%, Swiss 12% vs 2023) notably to the big European cities (Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris). Traffic volumes at London Gatwick airport were boosted by strong demand for flights to the Mediterranean but even more by long-haul connections with the United States and China (Air China, China Eastern, Norse Atlantic). The airports in Cabo Verde, where traffic volumes are growing sharply, posted record passenger numbers in May, benefitting from the good performance of the European market (Portugal, United Kingdom, France).

Traffic volumes also rose appreciably at Edinburgh and Budapest, the two airports that joined the VINCI Airport network in June. At Edinburgh, traffic levels rose fast during the quarter thanks to an appreciable rise in capacity on the part of both low-cost (easyJet, Jet2) and traditional airlines (KLM, Lufthansa, SAS, British). Demand for routes with North America is growing sharply, supported by the historic operators (United, Air Canada) and new services launched by Westjet and JetBlue. Budapest airport benefitted this quarter from the addition of two new aircraft based there by the historic operator Wizz Air for the summer season, plus an increase in the Ryanair service offer. In addition, it has strengthened its connections to Asian destinations, with, in particular four airline companies now offering 20 weekly routes to China.

Elsewhere, trends in traffic remained very brisk, mostly thanks to international routes. The Dominican Republic airports benefitted fully from the good performance of long-haul flights to Europe and Brazil. Santiago du Chili airport saw record passenger numbers in June, fuelled notably by dynamic trends in international lines (Brazil up 74%, Peru 19%). In Japan, passenger numbers on some regional routes (Seoul, Hong-Kong, Taipei, Shanghai) continue to remain much higher than pre-crisis trends. In a positive signal of gradual restoration of traffic with China, several Chinese airlines (e.g. Spring Airlines, China Eastern, Shangdong Airlines) have recently announced the reopening of routes for the coming summer season.

In the paragraphs above, except where otherwise indicated, variations refer to traffic levels in the second quarter of 2024 compared with the second quarter of 2023.

.

SkyCell partners with Validaide to enhance lane risk assessment with CO₂e calculations for pharmaceutical companies

The partnership will use AI and data analytics to transform supply chain efficiency 

SkyCell, the purpose-led technology company transforming the pharmaceutical supply chain, has partnered with lane risk assessment platform, Validaide to improve decision-making and enhance lane risk assessments for pharmaceutical companies. 

The pharmaceutical industry loses approximately $35 billion annually due to failures in temperature-controlled logistics. The partnership aims to address these challenges by allowing companies to make data-driven routing decisions, streamline lane risk assessments, and accelerate lane approvals for critical shipments, ultimately helping pharmaceutical companies make better supply chain decisions.  

The partnership will see SkyMind — SkyCell’s supply chain software platform — integrate with Validaide’s lane risk assessment and ground handling data, allowing pharma companies to make better decisions based on risk, cost and carbon emissions. SkyMind’s CO₂e software DECARBONIZE is based on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) latest research and methodology. The DECARBONIZE software allows the comparison of one-way versus reusable packaging options, allowing companies to minimize their environmental impact while making informed decisions. With this collaboration, Validaide’s platform will be enhanced to make lane risk assessments and CO₂e comparison with different packaging at the same time.

Travel agency shut down with holidaymakers owed almost £600,000 in refunds

Travel agents Felix Travels and Tours Limited has been wound-up at the High Court after customers complained they had not received the holiday they paid for 

Around 300 customers are owed refunds totalling almost £600,000 

A UK travel agency has been shut down after cancelling holidays at short-notice and not providing holidaymakers with the services they paid for.  Felix Travels and Tours Limited (FTT) was wound-up at the High Court in London on Tuesday 2 July. 

FTT, which traded more commonly as Felix Holidays, offered travel packages with flights, accommodation, transfers and extras such as Disneyland tickets and ski passes. 

However, many holidaymakers did not receive everything they had paid for in their package, leaving them to pay for the same service again from a different company. 

Almost 300 customers who missed out on the services promised by FTT are owed approximately £592,000. 

Cheryl Lambert, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:  "Felix Travels and Tours claimed to be a high-quality, trusted travel agency. This was sadly not the experience for holidaymakers who had packages cancelled at the last minute or were left missing accommodation or other services they had paid for in advance.

To make matters worse, around a quarter of the company’s total customers are owed refunds approaching almost £600,000. These completely objectionable trading practices left us with no option but to apply to have the company wound-up to protect customers in the future."

FTT was established in April 2020 as a travel agency with a call-centre in Sri Lanka. 

Virgin Atlantic to suspend Heathrow-Shanghai route this autumn

Less than 18 months after restarting the London Heathrow - Shanghai route, Virgin Atlantic has decided to axe the route, with the last outbound flight departing on 25th October. 

The carrier on confirmed the suspension today, a spokesperson said "Our people and customers in Shanghai have been amazing since we first touched down 25 years ago.  Since then, we’ve provided important connectivity between the UK and Shanghai for thousands of customers and supported global supply chains through our cargo operations. However, significant challenges and complexities on this route have contributed to the commercial decision to suspend flying to Shanghai.”

 One of the key reasons for the airline dropping the route is said to be the extra costs incurred due to the closure of Russian airspace since the start of the invasion of Ukraine. 

The airline cited increased operating costs and difficulties associated with not being able to fly through Russian airspace as the main reasons for dropping the route.

The airline will give a refund to passengers booked to travel beyond 26th October 

.

UK's new Defence Secretary sets out commitment to AUKUS to drive regional British growth

New Defence Secretary, John Healey, has set out Britain’s commitment to the AUKUS partnership as an important driver of jobs and growth in Yorkshire and across the UK. 

Defence Secretary and Australian Deputy Prime Minister tour UK military steel production plant. 

Site supports hundreds of local skilled jobs with bright future under AUKUS. 

Steel components from Sheffield to be used on future UK and Australian nuclear-powered submarines. 

Joined by the Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles, on a tour of a key military steel supplier in Sheffield, the pair saw first-hand how the business is benefiting from AUKUS – the trilateral defence and security partnership between the UK, US and Australia.  

John Healey today reaffirmed the UK’s staunch commitment to AUKUS and the jobs and growth it can deliver for Britain.  

The AUKUS submarine programme will generate 7,000 additional British jobs. At its peak, there will be over 21,000 people working on the SSN-AUKUS programmes in the UK supply chain.

The visit comes after Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke to Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, with the leaders outlining their commitment to the strong AUKUS partnership.  

Australia and the UK are close partners, working together on the most pressing global security issues. The two ministers also discussed UK-Australian cooperation to support Ukraine, our close coordination in the Indo-Pacific and our joint commitment to ensuring the AUKUS partnership fully delivers its potential.  

Defence Secretary, John Healey said:  "Working with allies and partners is fundamental to our security and so it is a pleasure to host my Australian counterpart within my first fortnight as Defence Secretary. The UK and Australia are the closest of friends and our work through AUKUS is testament to this.  

Sheffield Forgemasters is a shining light of UK industry that helps boost global security and employs skilled staff from the local community. This is just one example of how our hugely important partnership with our Australian and American partners can help drive jobs and growth across Britain."

Sheffield Forgemasters manufacture specialist steel parts used in critical UK defence programmes, including highly complex, nuclear-grade steel components for nuclear-armed submarines. Their parts will also be used in future UK and Australian conventionally armed, nuclear-powered, submarines – known as SSN-AUKUS – which will be the largest, most advanced and most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy.  

USA signs up first for national pavilion at the 2025 Paris Airshow...

Kallman Worldwide, organizer of the U.S. presence at the world’s most influential trade events, and SIAE, organizers of the International Paris Air Show, today announced that the United States of America is the first country to secure space for a national pavilion at next year’s biennial gathering at Le Bourget Airport.

 

The 2025 event will be the 55^th edition of the storied expo and Kallman’s 30^th year as the show’s U.S. representative. Following a record return in 2023 after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2025 USA Partnership Pavilion is expected to host a record-breaking 300-plus exhibitors over more than 6,500 sqm in its long-standing location in Hall 3 next July 16-22.

 

“We welcome the United States as the first national pavilion of the 2025 Paris Air Show floor plan,” said the show’s recently appointed CEO, Guillaume Bourdeloux. “It is a fitting statement of America’s leadership in the aerospace industry and the Paris Air Show’s proven reputation as the premier gathering place in the world for industry leaders.”

 

Produced in coordination with government agencies including the U.S. Departments of Commerce, Defense, State, and Transportation, the Pavilion is America’s headquarters on-site, a high-profile showcase for participating U.S. exhibitors to maximize their success at the event, and a forum for all to share ideas and insights. The roster of participants is expected to include returning and first-time exhibitors, including a number of stand-alone state pavilions within the larger U.S. space, all looking to generate new business and create more jobs back home by growing exports, expanding their presence in international markets, and/or recruiting overseas partners to establish or participate in stateside operations.

 

Emirates SkyCargo orders 5 Boeing 777 freighters

Emirates SkyCargo announced an order for five additional Boeing 777 Freighters to meet the growing demand the carrier is experiencing.  The new purchase takes Emirates' order book to 245 Boeing widebody aeroplanes, including 10 777 Freighters.

Emirates SkyCargo is the cargo division of Emirates, the world's largest international airline. Its investment in the 777 Freighter will boost main deck cargo capacity 30 percent by 2026. In all, Emirates' freighter fleet will grow to 17 airframes – including 777 Freighters, 777 converted freighters and 747 Freighters.

"Demand for our world-class product and services is growing exponentially, further amplified by Dubai's Economic Agenda which aims to double foreign trade and reinforce the city's position as a global trading hub. This investment in additional Boeing 777 capacity enables us to cater to customer demand and marks a step forward on our long-term strategic growth plan," said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, of Emirates Airline and Group. "The next phase of our strategy will include a full assessment for our future freighter fleet reviewing all aircraft options to ensure we are best equipped to respond to the evolving demands of the market and reaffirming our confidence in the role of airfreight and, more specifically, Emirates SkyCargo, in global trade."

American Airlines named best place to work for disability inclusion for ninth consecutive year

American Airlines has received a top score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index® (DEI) and was named one of the best places to work for disability inclusion in 2024 for the ninth consecutive year. The DEI exists to help businesses make a positive impact on the unemployment and underemployment of people with disabilities.

"We are honored to be recognized as a best place to work for disability inclusion and to achieve a top score on the Disability Equality Index,” said Cedric Rockamore, American’s Chief Diversity Officer. “This recognition reaffirms our steadfast commitment to fostering an environment where people from all backgrounds and abilities feel welcomed, valued and celebrated. We are committed to building and nurturing an environment where our team members of all abilities feel empowered to thrive."

The DEI was launched in 2015 in the United States as a joint initiative of Disability:IN and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and is acknowledged today as the most robust disability inclusion assessment tool in business. By completing the DEI, companies can demonstrate their commitment to disability inclusion and equality, as well as broader social issues.

"On the 10th anniversary of the Disability Equality Index, we’re extremely proud of the 542 national and international companies that are taking a proactive role in leading progress towards disability inclusion, setting a benchmark for others to follow. Their dedication to fostering inclusive workplaces not only attracts top talent but also drives innovation and creates sustainable performance in today's global market. Together, we are creating a future where everyone can contribute and thrive,” said Jill Houghton, President and CEO of Disability:IN.

Globally, people with disabilities represent 1.3 billion individuals. Disability is a natural part of the human experience, and it crosses lines of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and other demographics.

Learn more about the DEI at disabilityin.org.

.  

China Airlines starts A350 service between Taipei and Seattle

Taiwan-based China Airlines has restarted non-stop flights between Taipei and Seattle with Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The route expands the carrier’s passenger services to the northwestern USA by offering five weekly flights. In addition to providing travellers with even more options for travel between Taiwan and the Americas, China Airlines will leverage its extensive regional network to expand its share of the transfer market in Asia and boost business growth.

 

The China Airlines Taipei-Seattle service will depart every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. The outbound flight CI022 from Taiwan to Seattle will take off from Taoyuan Airport at 23:30 and arrive to Seattle at 19:50 local time after 11 hours of flying. The return flight CI021 will take off at 01:40 local time from Seattle and arrive back at Taoyuan International Airport in Taiwan at 05:05 the following morning after 13 hours of flying. 

 

China Airlines currently flies to five major cities in the USA and Canada, including Los Angeles, Ontario, San Francisco, New York, and Vancouver. The scheduled non-stop service to Ontario, California in particular was the first of its kind from Asia and remains exclusive to China Airlines. The dual airport-one city configuration expands the passenger market for China Airlines and provides up to three flights a day to the Greater Los Angeles region. The introduction of the Seattle route will expand China Airlines’ North American network to six non-stop destinations. More than 40 return flights to North America each week means even greater convenience for both business travellers and tourists.

 

Seattle is known both for its economic diversity and for being home to tech start-ups. As one of the largest cities in Washington State and an essential portal for trade in the Pacific Northwest, the city’s business travel market boasts strong development potential. Thanks to an exceptionally pleasant temperate maritime climate, Seattle is known as the “Emerald City” and is popular with tourists. The Mount Rainier National Park, its landmark Space Needle, and the vibrant local arts and culture scene all contribute to the unique draw of Seattle. 

. You can find more information and reservations on China Airlines on Opodo.

DHL and Chinese cargo carrier Central Airlines sign letter of intent on forming new partnership

DHL Express intends to deploy two owned Boeing 777 freighters with Central Airlines through a multi-year Operating agreement.

DHL Express has signed a Letter of Intent to enter into an Operating Agreement with Central Airlines to deploy two DHL 777 freighters. This will be the first time for DHL Express to do so with a local Chinese cargo airline.

"The signing of the Letter of Intent is an important milestone for both parties in the process of establishing a partnership and is another important step for DHL Express to deliver its commitment to long-term development in China, and to seek and deepen its cooperation with Chinese companies. The partnership with Central Airlines will further strengthen our capacity on intercontinental cargo routes from China while providing more convenience and higher efficiency for Chinese enterprises to expand their businesses globally", said Dongming Wu, CEO China at DHL Express. 

The two DHL Boeing 777 freighters to be delivered for operations by Central Airlines will sport a dual DHL and Central Airlines livery. The 777 is the world's largest, longest range, and most capable twin-engine freighter, reducing CO2 emissions by 18 percent compared to the legacy Boeing 747-400s.