Air Canada Celebrates the Launch of Seasonal Service to Ireland from Montreal

The arrival of flight AC818 at Dublin Airport, Ireland, this morning marks the successful launch of non-stop service between Montreal and Dublin. Flights will be operated until October 12, 2018, using Air Canada's newest single-aisle aircraft, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 featuring a Premium Economy and Economy cabin configuration.

"Capitalizing on the growing traffic between Canada and Ireland, we are pleased to inaugurate Montreal-Dublin flights," said Benjamin Smith, President Passenger Airlines at Air Canada. "Air Canada will offer the best market coverage of any carrier between Canada and Ireland with service between three Canadian hubs and two Irish destinations. This includes new Toronto-Shannon flights, up to daily non-stop Toronto-Dublin service, as well as seasonal non-stop Vancouver-Dublin service."

US Trade wars are bad for business warn aviation bosses

The increasing tensions over the looming trade wars the US looks set to wage against the rest of the world are causing great concern in the aviation world. Global airlines and aviation executives warned on Sunday that such international trade disputes could damage the entire aviation business.  

The current trade disputes from the US government have ranged from threats of tariffs on products from China to actual duties imposed on steel and aluminium from nations that had once been the closest allies of the US, from the European Union, UK, Canada and Mexico. Each has responded accordingly and imposed tariffs and duties on a range of products from the US.  

“Any measures that reduce trade and probably consequently limit passenger travel are bad news,” Alexandre de Juniac, director general of the International Air Transport Association, told news agency Reuters during IATA’s annual meeting, held in Sydney, Australia. 

American Airlines boss, Doug Parker said, “We always get concerned when you start to see tensions elevate around global trade and free trade,” 

Delta investigate dead dog

There is an internal investigation going on at Delta Air Lines after the death of a dog in the cargo hold of one of its aircraft.

The 8-year-old Pomeranian named Alejandro was flying with his owners from Phoenix to Newark and was fine during a layover in Detroit, but two hours later little Alejandro was found dead in his cage in the hold.

A Delta spokesperson told local media that it understands pets are important members of passengers families and was working with the owners to find out what happened to their animal. 

Ethiopian Airlines to launch Manchester to Addis Ababa

Ethiopian Airlines have confirmed the launch of a new service between Manchester and Addis Ababa four times a week from 1st December.

The new route will connect Manchester with more than 58 countries across the African continent as Ethiopian flies to more destinations in Africa than any other carrier. The CEO of the African carrier Tewolde Gebremariam said,  “We are elated to start services to Manchester, our second destination in the UK next to London Heathrow which we have been serving since 1973. As the leading African carrier with the widest network in the continent, passengers from Manchester will enjoy convenient and seamless connectivity options to 58 African destinations operated with cutting-edge fleet  like the B-787 and A350 which offer our  passengers unparalleled comfort onboard our flights, along with our African flavoured Ethiopian hospitality.”

Sun Country Airlines to reinvent itself as a ultra-low-cost-carrier

Sun Country Airlines have recently announced plans to refurbish the cabins on the Boeing 737 fleet the carrier currently operates, which sounds good, however from plans reported in The Minneapolis Star-Tribune its bad news for passengers.

The US Midwest carrier will be removing its first class seats and replacing them with a premium economy section. The airline is planning to maximise revenue at the expense of passenger comfort, by reducing seat pitch throughout the cabin in a staggered configuration. According to the reports, the premium economy will have a pitch of 34 inches and then a reduction from 32 to 29 inches in the regular economy section. Those seats with the least leg room will be at the back of the aircraft, for the cheapest fares.

The move is the result of an internal review by the airlines' new CEO, which will see the once popular and well-respected carrier reinvent itself as an ultra-low-cost carrier. The new CEO was formerly head of another ultra-low-cost-carrier, Allegiant Airlines, believes the perks of USB and power outlets in each row of seats will make up for the cramped conditions.  

Qantas flight returns to Sydney after engine fault

Passengers on a Qantas flight heading to Bangkok had a worrying time for over 30 minutes as the aircraft they were in developed a technical fault soon after taking off from Sydney.

Passengers on flight QF23 said they could smell gas on the plane as it circled over Sydney burning off fuel so it could perform an emergency landing at Sydney.  Some passengers used social media to report the plane had a problem with its right engine, which seemed to be failing, while others reported being 'freaked out' by the events.

Emergency crews were on standby at Sydney when the plane landed and passengers were disembarked, which Qantas called 'a normal procedure' and engineers were inspecting the aircraft. The passengers were accommodated on another flight to Bangkok, some 10 hours later and offered a voucher for around AUD$30 compensation, or as one disgruntled passenger put it,  AUD$1.80per hour he was delayed.  

This latest incident comes just 10 days after another Qantas aircraft had to return to Auckland airport, New Zealand after the cabin filled with smoke. On 24th May, Qantas flight QF144 had been climbing out of Auckland when reports of smoke caused the crew to make a sudden return to Auckland.  The flight was greeted by around 10 emergency response vehicles and the Australian airline later said a fault oven had caused the smoke. 

Philippine Airlines takes delivery of its first A321neo aircraft

Philippine Airlines has taken delivery of its first

A321neo aircraft in Hamburg, Germany.

This is the first of 21 A321neo aircraft ordered by the airline under its fleet renewal programme. Powered by Pratt and Whitney Pure Power engines, the new aircraft features a premium two two-class with 12 business class seats and 154 seats in the main cabin.

Selected for its outstanding operational efficiency, comfort and range, Philippine Airlines will deploy the A321neo aircraft across the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia and India.

The A321neo joins an existing Airbus fleet at Philippine Airlines that currently includes 25 A320ceo Family aircraft, 15 widebody A330s and five A340s. The carrier will also take delivery of the first of six A350-900 widebody aircraft on order later this year.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15 percent fuel savings at delivery and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 6,000 orders received from 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured nearly 60 percent share of the market.

Qantas and Air New Zealand unveil codeshare deal

Travelling Downunder might just have gotten a darn slight easier as Air New Zealand and Qantas announce plans for a special codeshare deal that makes it easier for passengers to utilize each carrier’s domestic route networks.

Under the codeshare deal, Qantas will add its code on up to 30 routes on Air New Zealand’s domestic network whereas the Air New Zealand code will be added to as many as 85 routes on Qantas’ domestic network.

The coordination of check-in and handling at airports will mean shorter connection times, opening up more onward flights for customers on each carrier’s domestic networks and faster journey times overall.

Air Canada Celebrates Launch of Montreal-Tokyo Narita Non-stop Flights

Air Canada launch Tokyo flight  

The departure today of AC005 marks the launch of the very first scheduled flight between Montreal and Japan. Flights will operate year-round with Air Canada's flagship aircraft, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, daily during summer peak travel and three times a week during the winter. Air Canada's new transpacific service from its Montreal hub is designed to optimize connectivity to several Canadian and U.S. cities: Quebec City, Ottawa, Halifax, Charlottetown, Boston, Philadelphia and Orlando. 

Hawaiian Airlines Celebrates New Long Beach Service

Hawaiian Airlines today welcomed guests aboard its inaugural flight between Long Beach Airport (LGB) and Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye Airport (HNL) with hula performances and lei as the carrier celebrated the start of daily non-stop service with new Airbus A321neo aircraft. Hawaii's hometown airline also treated guests departing Long Beach to an "Aloha Friday" beach bag filled with Hawaiian vacation essentials, including reef-safe lip balm from its partner Raw Elements, OluKai island footwear coupons, and 250 HawaiianMiles.

Long Beach becomes Hawaiian's 12th U.S. gateway city in an expanding network that offers travellers unrivalled access to the Hawaiian Islands. The airline is offering a promotional one-way fare of $229 for LGB-HNL flights for travel from Aug. 27 through Nov. 14 when booked between June 1-14.  

United try new boarding method where those that pay least board last

United Airlines are trying out a new boarding process that echoes the second class passenger boarding processes introduced by other airlines, including British Airways, whereby the passengers pay the least expensive fares board last.  

The airline is testing using just two-boarding lines and monitors to show which boarding group is being called. It is a system they used to use before switching to the current method in 2012. The idea is to help speed up boarding, with those paying the most getting on first and those that paid the least boarding last. 

Gate agents will be on the lookout for passengers carrying cabin bags that don't look likely to fit in the overhead luggage lockers or the lockers are already full, will insist the bag is placed in the hold and will charge passengers $25 for the gate-handling fee plus the $25 to check the bag.

Staff shake up at Lufthansa to be confirmed by end of August - 3000+ jobs at risk

The giant German airline Lufthansa will announce its mega shake-up of staff before the end of August according to a member of the management board.

Bettina Volkens spoke to WirtschaftsWoche this week, “We are currently talking about that with labour representatives ... Details should be decided on at the end of August,” 

Lufthansa is currently looking to employ new staff with new skills to make itself more adaptable in the modern digital age. In

a move to offer more web-based functions, the company is going to make an offer to more than 3000 older administrative staff to either undergo new training, switch to another lower position or face the sack.

“We are ruling out compulsory redundancies, but not voluntary ones,” Volkens is quoted, however staff in Munich has already been told that there will be redundancies 

“This is not primarily about IT skills but about a cultural shift. Analytical and social competencies, such as the ability to work in virtual, international teams or to deal with complexity and agility, are at the foreground for me,” Bettina Volkens said. 

New app from Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways, Fiji's National Airline, has launched its mobile travel application enabling guests to comprehensively manage their flight journey on the go with ease through their mobile devices.

The app, which is available for free download on Apple and Android, is part of the airline's ongoing initiative to enhance customer experience. 

The Fiji Airways Travel App was developed with the modern traveller's needs in mind. Its easy-to-navigate interface provides a wide range of flight management features that allow the guest to organize their journey from the palm of their hand. 

WestJet start Halifax - Paris service

WestJet today connected Atlantic Canada to the City of Light, with its inaugural flight between Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). The flight landed in France at 10:00 a.m. local time.

"This is a historic day for WestJet as we touch down on the European mainland for the first time," said Tim Croyle, WestJet Interim Executive Vice-President, Commercial. "This new service reinforces our confidence in Atlantic Canada and our ongoing support of Nova Scotia's tourism and economic development objectives outlined in its Atlantic Gateway initiative. Paris is the latest milestone chapter in WestJet's drive to become a truly global airline, bringing Canada to the world and the world to Canada."  

Etihad seeks financial help for Dreamliner order

News from Abu Dhabi indicates that Etihad Airways is seeking to raise debt to help finance the airlines' deliveries of the aircraft it has on order from Boeing, said to be worth more than US$1 billion. According to the financial press, the airline sent requests for proposals to banks just under a month ago for secured funding for the delivery of a number of 787 Dreamliner aircraft. 

The UAE carrier has more than 50 of the 787 Dreamliner aircraft on order, split over 21 787-9s and 30 787-10 and according to the financial press it is also seeking finance for a 777 freighter it has on order from the US manufacturer. 

At the current time, it is not clear exactly how many aircraft it needs to find finance for, of if indeed they will cancel some aircraft from the Boeing order. The airline has been undergoing a strategic review recently which may indicate a need to reduce the number of new aircraft it has on order. 

It is being reported that Etihad is considering the future for the options it currently has on aircraft its has ordered from both Boeing and Airbus.  The review may see the airline delay delivery, change model types or even cancel some of the options as it seeks to reorganize itself. 

The American manufacturer sees the apparent financing request as a good sign that Etihad will stick to the Dreamliner type and is putting pressure on the gulf carrier to ditch its order for 62 Airbus A350 jets. 

Delta starts flights to the Azores, the first US airline to head to Europe’s hidden gem, in nearly 80 years and becomes best air cargo carrier in North America

Delta Air Lines staff and customers celebrated the inaugural nonstop flight between New York-JFK and Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores on 25th May. 

Last Friday's flight makes Delta the first U.S. carrier to fly to the Azores in nearly 80 years, the last US airline to go there was Pan Am and they last operated there in 1939. The Azores are perhaps one of the most beautiful and remotest places in Europe and to many are seen as Europe's answer to Hawaii. The Portuguese archipelago is the next big vacation destination and are a lot cheaper than many other island destinations. 

Upon arrival in Ponta Delgada, the Delta flight was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute and after disembarking, customers were met by local dignitaries, airport staff and Delta employees who distributed regional gifts and welcomed them inside where the festivities continued at baggage claim.

"Delta is delighted to add another unique destination to our network," said Corneel Koster, Delta's S.V.P. - Europe, Middle East, Africa and India. "Portugal and the Azores are growing in popularity with U.S. tourists, as evidenced by record numbers of American visitors to Portugal last year. This is a great time to start our service."

Emirates announces start of scheduled A380 service into Hamburg

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, announced this week that it will introduce the first scheduled commercial Airbus A380 service to Hamburg. To commemorate the inaugural arrival in Hamburg on 29 October, the A380 will be deployed on the morning service (EK059/EK060), while from 30 October the A380 will be regularly deployed on the afternoon service (EK061/EK062).

The deployment of the iconic double-decker aircraft will represent a capacity increase of over 22% on the route. With a total of 6,090 weekly seats in each direction, Emirates will offer business and leisure travellers from the North of Germany an even greater choice of travel options to Dubai and to over 150 destinations beyond, highlighting Hamburg’s importance as part of the airline’s global network. With its existing multiple daily A380 services to Frankfurt, Munich and Dusseldorf, Emirates will be operating all German gateways with its A380 flagship aircraft. 

Daily A380 service effective 29th October – first and only airline with scheduled A380 operations at Hamburg Airport – all German Emirates gateways served by the iconic Airbus flagship

Republic Airways Launches Aviation Training Academy in Indianapolis

Republic Airways announced today that it will open Leadership In Flight Training (LIFT) Academy, a U.S.-based aviation training school. LIFT Academy, which will be located at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND), will set a new standard in commercial aviation training, utilizing advanced technology and systems to train future aviators. Republic will leverage its proven history in developing advanced training and safety curriculum to create a direct pipeline of highly skilled commercial pilots for the airline. Republic is opening LIFT Academy to make a career as a commercial pilot more accessible to all by reducing the high cost of flight training, encouraging greater pilot diversity and raising awareness of the need for a greater supply of pilots.

Passenger problems at Southwest

It has been an eventful week for Southwest, the leading low-cost airline in the US, its management must be worrying when the next problem or potential pr disaster might spring from.  The most recent spate of incidents starts with when one of its aircraft was forced to divert from its San Francisco to Los Angeles and perform an emergency landing at Mineta San Jose International Airport on 24th due to a “mechanical difficulty,” 

The 'mechanical difficulty' turned out to be that the smoke detector and fire alarm had gone off from one of the aircraft's toilets after a passenger had sparked up a smoke in there. Edmund Lo, a fellow passenger on Southwest Flight 1250 from San Francisco told local media that a man in a wheelchair boarded the flight before getting up and walking to the restroom when it reached cruising altitude. He also claimed that he could smell marijuana on the man as he made his way back to his seat and the flight was diverted and landed safely at Mineta San Jose International Airport shortly after 4 pm local time.

“The flight landed without incident where it was met by local law enforcement, and the customer in question was turned over to local authorities,” a Southwest spokesperson said in a statement.

But there is more,   read on to find out about a mother having to prove her biracial son was hers and a lady sitting next to a masturbating man. 

Emirates brings back its 'My Emirates Pass' for summer

The airline Emirates is bringing back its popular ‘My Emirates Pass’ this summer, which enables the gulf carriers passengers a great way to explore Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. This special pass turns the Emirates boarding pass into an exclusive membership card, giving travellers exclusive offers and discounts within the UAE.

Emirates customers flying to or through Dubai between 1 June and 31 August 2018 can take advantage of a range of offers at some of Dubai's best known hotspots by simply showing their boarding pass* and a valid form of identification.

My Emirates Pass gives customers exclusive offers at over 250 locations including world class restaurants. Special privileges are also available on a range of leisure activities including visits to thrilling theme parks or luxury spas across the city. For the first time, retail outlets have also been added to the mix giving special discounts at select fashion and fitness brands. 

United Airlines Announces $8 Million To Boost Eight Hub Communities

United Airlines announced yesterday, a total of $8 million in grants to help address pressing issues identified by local leadership in each of its hub market communities – Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Newark/New York and Washington, D.C. The announcement represents United's commitment to invest in and lift up the communities where many of its customers and employees live and work.

Jet2 launches new route to La Rochelle

Jet2 have launched a new route to France from its Leeds Bradford base over the weekend.  The carrier started a service to La Rochelle Airport from Leeds Bradford Airport and to mark the first flight the airline welcomed passegers with live music and a special goodie bag.

The new route means the carrier will be offering over 5,000 seats to La Rochelle for the summer period from Leeds Bradford. Flights are scheduled to operate every Saturday afternoon until the end of September. 

The popularity of La Rochelle and prompted the airline to announce a second new route from Manchester Airport for Summer 2019. The addition of weekly Saturday flights between May and September means that almost 7,000 seats are on sale between La Rochelle and Manchester Airport for the summer period next year. 

Singapore Airlines To Launch World's Longest Commercial Flights

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has confirmed today it will launch the world’s longest commercial flights this coming October!

The popular airline will operate a new non-stop services between Singapore and New York using the new Airbus A350-900ULR (ultra-long-range) from 11th October 2018.

Singapore Airlines says the route will initially be served three times a week, departing Singapore on Monday, Thursday and Saturday heading to Newark Liberty International Airport. The carrier confirms that daily operations would commence from 18 October after an additional A350-900ULR aircraft enters service.  

The flights will cover a distance of approximately 9,000nm (16,700km), and travelling time will be up to 18hrs 45min. Singapore Airlines previously operated the Singapore-Newark route until 2013, when services were suspended after the aircraft used at the time, Airbus A340-500s, were returned to Airbus.

The airline is the world’s first customer for the new powerful A350-900ULR, with seven on firm order with Airbus. The aircraft will be configured in a two-class premium layout, with 67 Business Class seats and 94 Premium Economy Class seats. Tickets for the new flights will go on sale from tomorrow.

UK introduces new laws to curb dangerous drone use

The UK is introducing new laws in an effort to combat dangerous drone use, especially near airports. The change in the law comes as the UK continues to see increases year on year of potentially dangerous drone incidents, during 2016 there were 71 reported serious incidents, which rose to 93 in 2017.

The new laws will restrict all drones from flying above 400 feet and within 1 kilometre of airport boundaries. The new laws will also require owners of drones weighing 250 grams or more to register with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and for drone pilots to take an online safety test to ensure the UK’s skies are safe from irresponsible flyers. These requirements will come into force on 30 November 2019. The CAA and airports will have the power to make exceptions to these restrictions in specific circumstances.

Baroness Sugg, Aviation Minister, said, "We are seeing fast growth in the numbers of drones being used, both commercially and for fun. Whilst we want this industry to innovate and grow, we need to protect planes, helicopters and their passengers from the increasing numbers of drones in our skies. 

These new laws will help ensure drones are used safely and responsibly."

Trouble ahead for Air Asia India and boss Tony Fernandes

Trouble ahead for Tony Fernandes, the CEO of AirAsia Group, as the Indian police have confirmed to media that they have filed a case against both Fernandes and AirAsia India, over allegations of corruption and breaking rules in obtaining a flying license. 

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has accused the airline and third parties, along with some staff of violating India’s foreign direct investment rules while obtaining the licenses. Additionally, there are accusations of bribing government officials in order to get regulations relaxed to allow AirAsia India to commence some international routes.

The CBI said the airline, Tony Fernandes and others “chose to beat the legal frameworks and policies of the aviation sector of India” and lobbied government officials “to secure mandatory approvals, some of them through non-transparent means”.

AirAsia India said it refuted any allegations of wrongdoing and was co-operating with all regulators and agencies “to present the correct facts”. However, the investigation has come at a bad time for the carrier, when expansion plans were well advanced. 

Mr Fernandes is also currently facing another investigation, in Malaysia over a dispute with the Malaysian Aviation Committee, over the cancellation of 120 flights during the general election period earlier in May. 

No bids for Air India......yet!

The Indian government says it has not yet has not received any bids so far for its stake in the state-run carrier Air India.

Speaking to local media the Indian Civil Aviation Secretary R.N. Choubey confirmed that no bids had yet been received for the 76% stake the government has in the finically troubled national airline.  Additionally, the government has also said that the deadline, which had already been extended from 14th May to 31st May would not be extended any further. 

"Air India is riddled with debt, it has been mismanaged for a number of years and despite having an impressive network and reasonably good onboard service, at least on its international flights, it isn't an attractive proposition for outside investment and anyone thinking about putting money into the ailing airline should know there is no quick fix and would have to be in it for a long time." Our chief aviation correspondent, Jason Shaw, said on Wednesday. 

Bombardier Signs Letter of Intent with HK Bellawings Jet Limited for up to 18 Global 6500 and Global 7500 Aircraft

Bombardier announced today that it has signed a letter of intent (LOI) for up to 18 Global 6500 and Global 7500 business jets with HK Bellawings Jet Limited, a leading aircraft management company based in Hong Kong. If all firm orders and options are exercised, the transaction would be valued at approximately $1.14 billion U.S. based on 2018 list prices.

Alaska Airlines awarded top ranking among Traditional Carriers in J.D. Power Satisfaction Study for 11th consecutive year

Staff and management of Alaska Airlines are celebrating today after the carrier was, for the 11th year in a row, recognized as the highest ranked airline in customer satisfaction among traditional carriers in the J.D. Power 2018 North America Airline Satisfaction Study.

"To earn this award for 11 years is a fantastic tribute to our people"Brad Tilden Alaska Airlines CEO

Losses at Aeroflot double....

One of the most recognised airline brands globally is the largest Russian airline, Aeroflot and the carrier posted a loss of 11.54 billion rubles for the first quarter of 2018, which is around US$184, which is more than double the 5.34 billion rubles over the same period last year.

The Russian flag carrier doesn't usually issue quarterly figures, said that the increased fuel costs surged 24.1%, it also saw staffing costs rising 15.1% which contributed to an increase in operating costs of 14.3%

Aeroflot’s Deputy CEO for Commerce and Finance Shamil Kurmashov said,“An increase in leasing expenses due to significant fleet expansion, as well as our initiatives to improve working conditions and increase salaries for cabin crew, led to a decrease in the overall financial result compared to the same period last year,” 

Many believed the results were much better than had been anticipated and because of this shares in Aeroflot rose upon the publication of the figures and pave the way for a more ambitious growth programme for the airline. 

More losses at troubled El Al

The Israeli airline, El Al released its latest set of figures this week and they showed an 11% increase in revenues to USD 464 million in the first quarter of 2018. A 2.5% increase in the number of passengers with an increase in load factor to approx. 83.8%; and a 4.3% increase in yield.

However, the carrier also recorded an increase of 15% in operating expenses, for which it blamed on higher fuel prices, expansion and having to give a pay rise to staff so they could earn the minimum wage. The carrier posted a pre-tax loss of USD 57 million.

El Al is facing an uncertain future as weak exchange rates, increased competition from low-cost type carriers and higher fuel prices start to bite into earnings. As a result, the airline is putting into place a business efficiency plan across the company, which will focus on reducing expenses and increasing revenues.

British man dies after falling from aircraft at Turkish airport

It has been confirmed that a 30-year-old British tourist from County Durham has died after falling from an aircraft at Dalaman airport in the south-west region of Turkey early on Tuesday 29th May. 

According to local media reports, it appears the man fell from the door whilst airport staff tried to remove him from the Jet2 flight. First aid was given to the man at the scene, he was unconscious and was transferred to a local hospital.  Whilst under the care of the Turkish medics he was found to have at least three broken ribs. Local state media is reporting the man, Andrew Westlake, from County Durham, never regained consciousness and died sometime later on Tuesday. 

A spokesperson for the British Foreign Office said,  “We are supporting the family of a British man following his death in Turkey and are in touch with the local authorities.”

The heavily controlled state-run media are reporting that the man had been stuck at the airport in Dalaman for over three days after losing his ticket and waiting for an available seat home. The south-west region of Turkey remains popular with British and northern European tourists, with resorts such as Fethiye, Olu Deniz and Marmaris year-round destinations. After the man was finally boarding the aircraft at approximately 3am local time he became argumentative with cabin crew and was ordered off the plane for being a risk to flight safety.

Police are investigating the incident and the airline concerned, Jet2, has released a statement confirming that one of their customers died at the airport. However, its statment contradicted local media reports, they said the man was not injured on or in the vicinity of their aircraft, but died in the airport terminal.

A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: "Our officers passed the devastating news to the family who we are supporting. "Our thoughts are with Andrew's family and friends." 

Finnair opens a new year-round route to Hanover for summer 2019 and increases capacity to Dubai for winter 2018-2019

Continuing with its growth in the German market, Finnair will be launching a new route to Hanover, Germany, next summer. The new route will start on April 29 with five weekly frequencies and will become a daily and year-round frequency as of June 1, 2019. Hanover is one of Northern Germany’s largest cities and hosts several important fair and trade events throughout the calendar year. Hanover will be Finnair’s seventh destination in Germany. Finnair flies year-round to Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich and Stuttgart.

It's not purple it is 'passport plum' Delta introduces new uniform

The new look Delta uniforms have been revealed and staff are picking up the new outfits at offices and hangers around the world. Some 64,000 Delta Air Lines employees will be getting the new uniforms which have been designed by Zac Posen and made with Lands' End quality, these designs embrace innovative fit, form and function, carrying Delta into the future in style.

Sunwing gets its first Boeing 737 - Max 8

The Canadian carrier, Sunwing Airlines took delivery of the airlines first brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft last week at a celebration in Seattle.

The aircraft is the first of four new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft for Sunwing Airlines, which have been acquired on a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation, arranged in late 2014. The deal will also see the carrier get of two further Boeing 737-800 aircraft. 

The second Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will be delivered later this week, whilst the remaining two of the type should be arriving with the carrier during 2019.

“The 737 MAX 8 aircraft is an integral part of Sunwing’s overall expansion plans across an increasing number of both Canadian and U.S. gateways and illustrates the evolution of the company,” said Mark Williams, President of Sunwing Airlines. “Sunwing may have increased in scale however what drove the company in the early 2000s is still central to our business today – in particular, the airline’s commitment to its passengers that when they travel with Sunwing, they travel with an award-winning airline and one of Canada’s most modern fleets.”

Joon's one millionth passenger!

It seems like only last week we were talking about the launch of Joon an airline set up by Air France to be a carrier specifically designed for millennials. It was, however, a little longer than a week ago,  in fact as far back as 1st December 2017 that the airline first started in a blaze of hype and flashing lights. Now, the carrier is celebrating its one-millionth customer on board!

This lucky customer, was travelling on the flight from Rome to Paris-Charles de Gaulle, and were greeted on arrival in Paris by Jean-Michel Mathieu, Joon’s CEO, together with the crew and was presented with:

- A return flight for two people to the medium-haul destination of their choice;
- A pair of Joon “Le Coq Sportif” sneakers, the emblem of our crews’ uniform;
- As well as other surprises!

The future of airlines in South Africa looks set in mergers

The future of three state-owned airlines of South Africa looks stronger together as merger talks are started according to the minister of public enterprises. 

Pravin Gordhan told local media sources on Sunday that discussions regarding the merger of three government airlines,  SA Express, Mango and South African Airways had already started and would continue this week with other relevant ministers.

Mr Gordhan stated that was starting discussions this week with other departments, including the Treasury, with a view to evaluating the research work already completed by consulting firms as to the future of the airlines, "We must ask which areas we can rationalise, use one another’s resources,” he said.

Crosswinds cause SriLankan Airbus to strike runway lights at Cochin

The passengers and crew of a SriLankan Airlines flight had a lucky escape on Sunday 27th May after the aircraft they were on struck a number of runway lights whilst landing at Cochin International Airport

The incident occurred as heavy rains were lashing the area on Sunday with savage crosswinds as flight UL167 was coming into land. The aircraft was carrying 228 passengers and 12 crew at the time of the incident and so far there have been no reports of any injuries to those onboard.

The SriLankan Airlines flight UL167 from Colombo, Sri Lanka and had landed at 3.55pm local time at Cochin, Kerala. Local media reported that the Airbus aircraft came down off centre and had veered toward the edge of the runway, damaging a small number of ground lights.  

Swoop to be covered by union....no strike for WestJet pilots

It was announced late last week that pilots who fly for Swoop, the new budget airline from WestJet will now benefit from the same level of union coverage as those flying for the mainline WestJet brand.

It was only on Friday night that WestJet management and its pilots averted possible strike action by flight crew by approving a settlement process to reach a first contract, with any disputed issues to be resolved through binding arbitration with Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). 

The group's pilots who fly for Swoop will now be covered under the same contract as their WestJet mainline counterparts, which was a demand by the union, who also accused WestJet of outsourcing jobs to break the action.

Bombardier Elevates the Name of its Flagship Business Jet to the Global 7500 Aircraft

There were smiles at another division of Bombardier over the last few days, the Business Aircraft side of the Canadian company announced that its class-defining business jet, which has surpassed so many of its commitments during flight testing programme will 

• Eagerly awaited marquis business jet will enter service as the Global 7500, to celebrate its outstanding performance and its position as the flagship of the new Global aircraft family

now be known as the Global 7500 aircraft. 

“Our Global family of aircraft is entering a new era, with the Global 7500 aircraft as its flagship,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “The market’s largest and longest range business jet will soon be joined by our newest additions, the Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft, reinforcing the fact that our Global family is, by far, the best large-cabin aircraft family in business aviation.”

airBaltic Orders up to 60 Bombardier CS300 Aircraft

Great news for Bombardier Commercial Aircraft today as they and Air Baltic announced that the parties have executed a firm purchase agreement for the sale and purchase of 30 CS300 aircraft with options and purchase rights for an additional 30 aircraft of the same type.

Based on the list price of the CS300 aircraft, the firm order is valued at approximately US$ 2.9 billion. This amount would increase to nearly US$5.9 billion should all 15 options and 15 purchase rights be exercised.

“As the C Series aircraft program continues to gain market acceptance, this significant reorder from our CS300 launch operator is a strong testimony to the aircraft’s exceptional in-service performance,”said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Furthermore, we are proud that the CS300 has helped airBaltic maintain its position as one of the world’s most punctual airlines. The C Series aircraft is at the forefront of the small single-aisle market, and airBaltic played a key role in demonstrating its value. In the last 18 months, we have witnessed airBaltic’s growing leadership in the market, and we wish the airline further success with its expanded CS300 fleet.”

The C Series firm order book to over 400 aircraft

With this order, airBaltic becomes the largest European C Series customer and the second largest customer worldwide with 50 aircraft on firm order. The airline’s new business plan relies on significant expansion of routes from all three Baltic countries – Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania.

Royal Brunei takes delivery of its first A320neo

Bringing new levels of efficiency for the carrier’s regional network

Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) has taken delivery of its first A320neo aircraft during an event in Toulouse, France attended by Karam Chand, RBA Chief Executive Officer: Her Excellency Datin Paduka Malai Hajah Halimah binti Malai Haji Yussof, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to France; and Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The aircraft is the first of seven A320neo ordered by the airline under its single-aisle fleet renewal programme. Powered by CFM International LEAP-1A26 engines, the new aircraft features a premium three class layout with 12 business class seats, 18 economy plus and 120 in the main cabin. The airline will operate the aircraft on its extensive regional network.

Royal Brunei has been flying A320 Family aircraft since 2003 and currently operates a fleet of six A320ceo jets.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15 percent fuel savings at delivery and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 6,000 orders received from 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured nearly 60 percent share of the market.

The search for MH370 will end next week, but new PM opens the door for another search

Malaysian authorities have announced that the search for missing flight MH370 by private US company will finish next week.

On Wednesday the Malaysian transport minister, Anthony Loke said that the 90-day search deal with Ocean Infinity was due to end in April but had been extended twice until 29th May, following the firm’s request.  “There will be no more extensions. It cannot continue forever. Let’s wait until May 29 and we will then decide how to proceed."

The organisation Voice 370, which represents many of families of those onboard the vanished flight, issued a statement which urged the new government to review all matters related to the jet’s disappearance including “any possible falsification” or elimination of maintenance records and any omission that may have impaired tracking, search, rescue and recovery of the plane.

Loke advised that the new government, which realised power after the 9th May elections, is committed to transparency and will release details for public scrutiny in due time.

US sanctions won't effect Mahan Air

                    The US sanctions will make no difference, says Mahan Air.  The Iranian airline announced this weekend that the JCPOA made no difference in terms of sanctions against the Iranian airlines and confirmed the company would move forward with development plans, even after US president Trump pulling the nation out of the deal.

 In a statement Faramarz Sarvi, from the company said “Mahan Air has always been included in US anti-Iran sanctions even in the post-JCPOA era and the recent announcement of US Department of the Treasury is nothing new for this company,” 

After Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran, France, China, Russia, UK, US, and Germany, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control levied sanctions on 4 Iranian airlines - Mahan Air, Meraj Air, Caspian Airlines and Pouya Air on Thursday.

“The sanctions against Iranian aviation industry has been in place since the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979 and they are not something new for us,” Sarvi added.

Mahan Air has a fleet of 54 aircraft comprising of  2  Boeing 747-300's, 11 Airbus A340's, 14 Airbus A300's, 10  Airbus A310's and 17 BAe146's.

Trump in favour of sky high airline fees

The Trump administration has confirmed to the US Congress it opposes a Senate bill that would require new rules prohibiting any airline fees that are not “reasonable and proportional,” along with many other new consumer protections that the administration deems “unnecessary and wasteful,” according to a letter, that news agency Reuters has seen.