A lot of interest for Embraer at Farnborough

Tuesday saw a whole raft of orders and commitments came in for the Brazilian manufacturer, Embraer at this years Farnborough International Airshow.

Mauritania Airlines placed a firm order for two E175 jets. The aircraft will be configured with 76 seats in a comfortable dual-class layout with deliveries to take place in 2019. "The acquisition of the E175 is part of our fleet modernization, replacing old aircraft and complementing our young narrow-body aircraft", said Mr Mohamed Radhy Bennahi, CEO of Mauritania Airlines. "We are certain that with E175 we'll be able to offer an even better service to our customers, with greater comfort, adding more frequencies and new destinations."

Wataniya Airways signed the papers for 10 E195-E2 aircraft. the Kuwaiti airline also took purchase rights for a further 10 aircraft. The airline will configure the new aircraft in a comfortable layout of 118 seats, with 12 in business class and 106 in economy class and is the worldwide launch customer for Embraer's new staggered business class seating. "The E195-E2 will allow us to open non-served markets and increase frequencies, delivering better connectivity to the Kuwait market", said Rakan Al-Tuwaijri, CEO of Wataniya Airways. "We have chosen the staggered seats to differentiate ourselves from the competition, offering a superior product with extra legroom and better privacy for our customers."

Air Lease Corporation orders 23 aircraft from Boeing

Boeing and Air Lease Corporation today announced orders and commitments for up to 78 Boeing aircraft at the 2018 Farnborough International Airshow. That's the headline news from the American manufacturer, but the small print indicates that only the first 23 aircraft are actually firm commitments. 

This order is for up to 75 737 MAX 8s and 3 787-9 Dreamliners and has a list price value of over $9.6 billion, but will be much much lower in reality. However, don't be fooled by the Boeing hype, as they try to portray domance on the world aircraft market, the 75 air frames isn't a confirmed order. Only 23 aircraft are confirmed orders made up of 20 737 MAX planes and 3 787-9's.

The remaining 55 737 Max aircraft are listed as 'commitments', but no deal on them has been signed or confirmed at this stage.  "Demand for reliable, fuel-efficient aeroplanes is at an all-time high. The capabilities of these new aeroplanes continue to meet the high expectations of our growing airline customer base," said Steven Udvar-Házy, Executive Chairman of Air Lease Corporation.

John Plueger, CEO and President of Air Lease Corporation added, "The economic and operating advantages of the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner will provide our airline customers with the competitive advantage they need."

Air Canada is the best airline in North America

At the 2018 Skytrax World Airline Awards ceremony held today in London, Air Canada was named Best Airline in North America for the second consecutive year.  It is the seventh time in the past nine years the carrier was selected as the best in North America by the World Airline Awards, which are based on passenger satisfaction surveys of approximately 20 million global travellers.

"We are very pleased that Air Canada has again been recognized as the Best Airline in North America by the highly respected Skytrax World Airline Awards. This is the seventh time in nine years Air Canada has been honoured with this award, demonstrating our successful transformation into a leading global carrier. I thank our 30,000 employees who are the true winners of the Skytrax Award, for delivering superior service while transporting more than 48 million customers a year safely to their destinations," said Calin Rovinescu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada.

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, said: "Air Canada achieved a remarkable success winning this top accolade as the Best Airline in North America for the seventh time. Air Canada demonstrates that it is truly a passenger favourite as it continues to receive such a vote of confidence from customers."

Finnair named as ‘Best Airline in Northern Europe’ for the 9th year in a row by Skytrax

For an amazing ninth year in a row, Finnair has been awarded the mantle of 'Northern Europe’s Best Airline' by Skytrax at the World Airline Awards event in London today.

“It is a truly an honour to receive this prestigious award for the ninth consecutive year,” said Piia Karhu, SVP, Customer Experience at Finnair. “This award demonstrates the great work our entire team has done to focus on making the customer and travel experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible.” 

“We have also taken important steps in continuing to develop and refine key areas of our travel experience through the entire customer journey and we have seen very favourable developments in our customer feedback and NPS score,” adds Karhu.   

SKYTRAX awards for ‘World's Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline’ and ‘Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe’ go to Norwegian

The ‘World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline’ and ‘Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe’ awards were won by Norwegian at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards held in London today.

The Skytrax 2018 World Airline Awards, celebrating its 18th year, are independent and impartial and represent the leading international airline rating system as voted for by the travelling public, and Norwegian was once again recognised by providing outstanding service combined with a high-quality product while operating one of the youngest fleets in the aviation industry.  The airline has won the award for ‘World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline’ for the fourth consecutive year and the ‘Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe’ for the sixth year in a row.

New A330-300 for Tianjin Airlines and Hainan Airlines

News from Haikou, China is that Hainan Airlines are all set to take delivery of an Airbus A330-300 aircraft by the end this month and is the 18th new A330-300 to join the carriers fleet.

This is the first new aircraft to be introduced by Hainan Airlines this year and is configured with 303 seats, there are 279 in the economy class cabin while 24 are positioned in the business class cabin. All the business class seats feature herringbone arrangement that allows passengers to enjoy lie-flat beds, increased privacy and direct aisle access.   All seats also include a USB slot, 110v power supply as well as an entertainment system. 

Sister airline, Tianjin Airlines is also getting its hands on a brand new A330-300 aircraft direct from Airbus at Toulouse today, which will initially serve the Tianjin to Tokyo and Osaka routes as well as planning flights from Tianjin, Xi'an, Chongqing to London, Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland. 

HNA orders 20 COMAC ARJ21's

The HNA Group and Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China Ltd known as COMAC have signed a deal for the airline group to buy 20 of COMAC's ARJ21 aircraft at Farnborough International Air Show and will be used by Urumqi Air. 

These new AJR21's are China's first turbofan regional jet developed in accordance with international airworthiness standards and excels in five major areas according to the manufacturers, including: product adaptability, passenger comfort and cost efficiencies, as well as universality of parts and materials not only across the model suite but also with other commonly built aircraft, all of which help the model meet the operational requirements of taking off and landing at the airports located across the western plateau of China, a region frequently beset by high temperatures, and surmounting obstacles on complex routes, making the aircraft an ideal choice for routes and airports in Western China.

New Emirates lounge in Cairo

Last week the Dubai based mega-airline Emirates unveiled its 42nd dedicated lounge in its vast global network. The newest addition to the group is at Cairo International Airport and is open to Emirates First Class and Business Class customers as well as Platinum and Gold members of Skywards, the airline’s loyalty programme.  

Reflecting the airline’s ongoing commitment to Egypt, the Emirates Lounge in Cairo represents a US$ 3.6 million investment to provide premium customers with a seamless and enjoyable journey. Catering to three daily flights, the lounge offers customers even greater levels of comfort, hospitality and convenience as they start their Emirates experience in Cairo. Located at Departure Terminal 2, Level 2, above the secondary security check & Duty Free area, Emirates’ customers can look forward to relaxing, unwinding and enjoying award-winning service and cuisine.

Ukrainian Ministry of Interior sign for 55 civil helicopters from Airbus

Following the Intergovernmental Agreement signed between France and Ukraine on 8 June, Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with the Ukrainian Ministry of Interior for the purchase of 55 civil helicopters destined for search and rescue (SAR), public services, and emergency medical service (EMS) missions in the country. The 55 aircraft include 21 repurposed H225s, and 10 brand new H145s and 24 H125. The contract, which also foresees the setting up of a local training and maintenance centre, was signed in Kiev on 14 July in the presence of Arsen Avakov, Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Ukraine, and Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO.

The heavy twin-engine H225 aircraft ordered by Ukraine, for which the French State currently holds economic rights, will be repurposed to suit public services and search & rescue missions for which the aircraft is recognised as a reference helicopter. The H225 features include a takeoff sequence of less than five minutes, an extra long-range capability with auxiliary fuel tanks, and its world-renowned autopilot and upper SAR modes. The first H225 helicopters are expected to land in Kiev before the end of 2018.

A21neos and A350's for Taiwanese start up airline STARLUX

STARLUX Airlines is a new startup airline based in Taiwan, which have signed a memorandum of understanding with European manufacturer Airbus at the Farnborough International Airshow 2018 today.

The brand new carrier is to purchase 17 A350XWB aircraft which is made up of 12 A350-1000s and 5 A350-900s, with deliveries scheduled to be delivered from the start of 2021. STARLUX founder and Chairman K.W. Chang said, "As a pilot myself, I personally experienced the test-flight of the A350-1000. Its outstanding performance really amazed me. The A350XWB is indeed one-of-a-kind in the current market, and perfectly suited for such a geographic location as Taiwan," 

The new airline is goping for an all Airbus fleet, confirming that it will be leasing 10 A321neos and is looking forward to being the first airline to operate the A350-1000 in Taiwan.

Watch a brief video on the STARLUX Airlines A350XWB -

Bombardier exhibit the CRJ Atmosphere cabin at Farnborough

At Farnborough International Air Show the Canadian manufacturer Bombardier, free of the shackles of its CSeries jet that is now rising to new heights under the auspices of Airbus, had to make do with showing off a new cabin for its CRJ aircraft.

Bombardier showcased the new ATMOSPHÈRE cabin alongside launch operator Delta Air Lines and supplier Zodiac Aerospace during the first day of the show. “Our product is evolving, and this signature cabin design represents the latest innovation to our very successful regional jet program. This cabin design will add value to airlines, the feedback has already been very positive as demonstrated with the recent momentum we have gained in the market.” said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

The CRJ900 aircraft with the ATMOSPHÈRE cabin is on display all week and the company will also be exhibiting a Q400 aircraft in the colours of Ethiopian Airlines.  They are also showing off the sweet and powerful Global 6000 business jet. 

United order 25 Embraer E175's

United Airlines ordered 25 new Embraer E-175 aircraft and will use them to replace the 25 CRJ700 planes that are currently being flown by the United Express partners. The new aircraft will enable United's service partners to offer more comfortable and efficient aircraft to passengers, they say. 

Gerry Laderman, United's senior vice president of finance and acting chief financial officer said, "The new E-175 aircraft will provide our customers with a superior product that offers the latest in onboard amenities and comfort and will be a terrific addition to our fleet." The new additions will be configured with 70 seats.

"We are thrilled that United is adding another 25 Embraer aircraft to the large existing fleet of almost 400 E-Jets and ERJ's currently flying in the United Express network," said Charlie Hillis, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, North America, Embraer Commercial Aviation.

Embraer staff at Farnborough International Air Show refused to answer questions regarding the Boeing takeover/joint venture recently announced or respond to suggestions the manufacturer's aircraft will soon be known as  Boeing 616, 626 and 636. 

A rush of orders for Boeing on the first day of Farnborough International Air Show - but are they new?

The US giant manufacturer Boeing proudly announced a huge rush of orders on the first day of the Farnborough International Air Show 2018, with orders coming from various customers including DHL, Jackson Square Aviation, United Airlines, GOL, Goshawk Aviation, TAROM and Qatar. Yet, new orders, they seem not to be.

The freight and package delivery experts DHL order 14 777  Freighter aircraft with an option for 7 further aircraft. Although the order was announced at FIA 2018, it had been made in previous months, Boeing listed the customer as 'Unidentified' on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website. Once the new aircraft are delivered, they will double DHL's fleet of 777 freighter aircraft. 

Qatar Airways operates a fleet of 13 777 Freighters and two 747-8 Freighters and finalised a deal to buy a further five 777 freighters at FIA 2018, with the list price value of $1.7 billion. Again this is deal that had previously been agreed and was announced as a commitment back in April, so is not a new order. "I am delighted to be further enhancing our cargo fleet and adding five Boeing 777 Freighter aircraft," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker. "In the past 15 years, Qatar Airways Cargo has grown steadily and globally, becoming the third largest in the world. We could not have achieved this success without our resilient relationship with Boeing."

Boeing said that United Airlines has ordered four more 787-9 aeroplanes. The deal, valued at about $1.1 billion per current list prices, was finalized this year and was previously listed as unidentified on the manufacturer's Orders & Deliveries website again, so should not be seen as a new order.

"These new 787 aircraft are another step in our wide-body replacement strategy, and we will continue to roll out new announcements in the future as we implement our comprehensive fleet plan," said Gerry Laderman, United's senior vice president of finance and acting chief financial officer. "The 787 allows us to provide our customers with an industry-leading onboard experience and continues to be a vital part of our fleet."  With this latest purchase, United Airlines has now ordered 55 787 Dreamliners. Nearly half of all 787 customers have placed repeat orders for the aeroplane.

DHL order 14 777 Freighters

The US planemaker Boeing announced its first order from Farnborough International Air Show this morning and that was from freight handling and package delivery specialists DHL.

DHL have placed an order for 14 Boeing 777 Freighters and optional purchase rights for a further 7 additional freighters. Whilst the order was announced at the opening of this years FIA, the deal had been agreed some time ago and had even been listed on Boeing's website as an 'unidentified' purchaser.

"We are delighted to announce the acquisition of 14 new 777 Freighters as we renew part of our long-haul fleet,"  said Charlie Dobbie, Executive President of Global Network Operations & Aviation.

DHL was the first carrier of its type to introduce the 777 in 2009 and this new order will double its global fleet  of 777's allowing more markets and customers to benefit from the uniquely capable aircraft.

Singapore Airlines to launch non-stop Singapore - Los Angeles flights

From November this year, Singapore Airlines has confirmed it will launch non-stop flights between Singapore and Los Angeles using the new Airbus A350-900ULR (ultra-long-range) aircraft. The airline also stated it will increase its non-stop flights to San Francisco from Singapore to 10 per week, which will bring the total US-bound flights for SIA to 27.

The first non-stop Los Angeles service will start on 2nd November and is scheduled to be flown three times a week initially. SQ38 will depart Singapore on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. When the second A350-900ULR enters service the schedule to Los Angeles will be increased to a daily operation from 9th November. Then from 7th December 2018, a further three services per week will be added, using the flight number SQ36, lifting total non-stop flights between Singapore and Los Angeles to 10 times per week.

With the introduction of non-stop services between Singapore and Los Angeles, SIA’s existing one-stop service to Los Angeles via Seoul will come to an end on 30th November 2018. Singapore-Seoul frequency will be maintained at four flights per day with the introduction of a new Singapore-Seoul return flight from 1 December 2018, operating as flight SQ612. Together with SIA’s current daily one stop service to Los Angeles via Tokyo, Los Angeles will be served 17 times per week.

London City Airport welcomed Embraer's E190-E2

Last week London City Airport played host to the latest aircrtaft from The Brazillian manufacturer,  Embraer, with its E190-E2. The aircraft landed for the first time at the airport in the city of London on a promotional visit on its way to Farnborough for the air show

The visit demonstrates the ability of the Embraer E190-E2 to operate the steep arrival and departure requirements dictated by London City Airports position.   “For Embraer, London City feels like home, wherever you look, our aircraft are there. So it’s a big moment for us to bring the newest generation Embraer jet to this important European hub. We know that passengers will love the new aircraft, still with no middle seats and featuring larger overhead bins, and Londoners will also appreciate the quietness of the aircraft and its low emissions.” said Arjan Meijer, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation.

Richard Hill, Chief Commercial Officer at London City Airport, said: “to welcome the Embraer E2 to London City Airport for the first time is a crucial milestone towards certification and subsequent commercial operation at London’s most central airport. The first generation of E-Jets have been intrinsic to London City’s growth, so much so that up to three quarters of all passengers now land or depart on the aircraft. As we continue a £480m transformation, due for completion in 2022, the E2 has enormous potential for London City, with proven ability to operate with less noise, fewer emissions, and better fuel efficiency to open up new destinations, delivering significant benefits for our airline customers, passengers and local neighbours.”

Mitsubishi Aircraft's MRJ90 arrives at Farnborough

The MRJ90 from Mitsubishi Aircraft has arrived in Farnborough ahead of the air show resplendent in the livery of ANA All Nippon Airways, 

The flight test aircraft will be making its flying display debut at the show on later on Monday. The aircraft had flown in from is flight testing base in Moses Lake in the USA via Bangor, Maine and Reykjavik, Iceland. 

Mitsubishi Aircraft is keen to show off the new aircraft and are hoping to get it into service with ANA in early 2020 and are hoping for interest from other carriers. It's believed the aircraft will also take part in the flying programme each day of the air show.

More Airbus aircraft for Viva Aerobus?

Airbus will be announcing a repeat order for 40 A320neo family aircraft from Viva Aerobus during the Farnborough Air Show, according to a number of sources at the European planemaker.

At list prices the potential order would be worth around $1.4billion, however, a repeat customer discount would apply as Viva Aerobus has already ordered some 52 Airbus aeroplanes, and has a fleet of  22 Airbus A320ceo and 4 Airbus A320neo. 

Viva Aerobus is the leading low-cost airline in Mexico flying a fleet of modern aircraft and are rapidly grown all across Latin America.  The airline started flying on 30th November 2006, with the first flight being between Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, and Leon, Guanajuato.  So far the airline has carried some 32 million passengers and operates 115 daily flights on over 60 routes and employs over 1100 people.

Viva Aerobus matra is "always safe, always reliable and always low prices."  and has recently announced the launch of another two domestic routes: Toluca-Cancun and Toluca- Monterrey. Both routes will start on19th October 19. The Cancun service will fly 3 times a week while the Monterrey route will have 4 flights a week. 

(Photos Viva Aerobus)

Airlines halt services to Najaf, Iraq over security fears

Royal Jordanian, the national airline of Jordan and the UAE's Flydubai have both suspended flights to the Iraqi city of Najaf due to the security situation at the airport.

Jordan's state airline confirmed it was suspending its four weekly flights to the Iraqi city on Sunday, it is the ninth city in the region it has had to halt to due fighting and turmoil in recent times. Some of the other destinations it has removed from its schedule include Mosul, Aden and Sanaa.

Flydubai has suspended its daily flight to the Najaf city on a temporary basis, initially until at least 22nd July and follows the security issues around the city that caused the airport to close on Friday. Both airlines have said they will continue to monitor the situation.   Najaf is among a number of cities in the south of Iraq that have seen days of protests over poor services and against official corruption. 

Philippine Airlines welcomes first Airbus A350

During a special ceremony in Toulouse, France, Jaime J. Bautista, President & COO of Philippine Airlines cut the ribbon and took delivery of the airlines first A350 XWB.

Philippine Airlines has ordered six A350-900s, which it intends to use mainly on routes to North America and Europe and is the  19th airline to operate the world’s most modern and efficient long range airliner.  Currently, the longest route Philippine Airlines operates is Manila to New York, a distance of over 8,000 miles and takes around 17 hours and previously needed a technical stop in Vancouver, however, thanks to the A350, the carrier will now be able to operate the route with no stops!

Philippine Airlines has decided to configure its A350-900s in a three-class arrangement, 30 seats that convert to fully flat beds in Business Class, 24 seats offering extra space in Premium Economy and 241 18-inch wide seats in the main economy cabin.  One of the many features on the A350 is the Airspace by Airbus cabin, with more personal space and full connectivity throughout. The cabin is the quietest of any twin aisle aircraft and features the latest mood lighting and air conditioning systems. Higher humidity levels and a lower cabin altitude all contribute to added well-being on board, especially for long range flights.

A350 to fly to Philadelphia for Qatar Airways.....just once!

The OneWorld alliance member Qatar Airways has informed us that they will put one of the airlines Airbus A350 aircraft on the Doha - Philadelphia route - but just for one day only!

The brand new aircraft will fly from Doha at 0800 on 23 July operating flight QR727 and should arrive at Philadelphia at 1445 local time.  The return sector is scheduled for 2100 departure, which arrives in Doha the next day at 1646 flight QR728.

Air France celebrates

In 2018, Air France has received three awards for the quality of its service and its wines in La Première and Business class cabins.

Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List

Air France features in the “Gold List” of the “World’s Best Airlines 2018”, drawn up by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. In total, 6 lists rewarding different tourism industry players have been published following votes by more than 12,000 magazine readers and evaluation by 20 professionals.

La Première takes first place

Ai France has obtained the title of “Best selection of wines 2018 for an airline” and been awarded “Three Glasses” (following the example of the Michelin Guide’s stars awarded to chefs) for its wine selection in La Première cabin by “China’s Wine List 2018”. Paolo Basso, voted world’s best sommelier in 2013 and wine experts Bettane and Desseauve, authors of the French Wine Guide, sign the wine and Champagne list in the La Première cabin.  The Business cabin also received “Two Glasses” for its wine selection.

Top 10 best international airlines

Air France is included in the “10 best international airlines 2018” ranking, drawn up by Tsinghua university’s Digi-Talk Tourism Forum. This forum brings together researchers and professionals from around the globe along with companies including Facebook, Google, Baidu and Weibo.

More choice, more discounts on Etihad's Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Pass

If you are heading to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways you'll now have even more to do, thanks to the airlines Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Pass, as they are adding more restaurants, leisure attractions and a five-star hotel, to provide visitors arriving in Abu Dhabi with more exclusive discounts and special offers.  

Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Pass offers 20 percent discounts off various dining outlets in Yas Mall, including Fish & Co, Mr Greek, Al Fanar and more. Visitors will also be able to get 20 percent discount on Leisure Train Tourism tours in Al Ain and a generous a massive 50 percent off Hala Abu Dhabi tours, including the Story of Abu Dhabi City Tour, Morning Desert Drive and Desert Sunset Drive & BBQ experiences.

Tim Burnell, Etihad Airways Vice President of Marketing, said: “Etihad is delighted to increase the number of exclusive discounts available with The Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Pass. Guests now have even more offers and opportunities to explore Abu Dhabi for less this summer, and discover for themselves the wealth of exciting opportunities our dynamic capital, and wider emirate has to offer.”

To qualify for discounts or special offers, all Etihad Airways passengers have to do is show their boarding pass (branded or non-branded) at the participating retailers to receive the discount.

Miracle Flights Announces Strong Start to Fiscal Year 2019

Miracle Flights, the leading US medical flight charity, reported this week its latest figures, 1,216 free flights provided to sick children since the start of its new fiscal year May 1. Established in 1985, the Las Vegas–based national nonprofit organization has to date provided more than 118,000 free flights and flown over 66 million miles to help children with rare and life-threatening illnesses gain access to specialized medical care far from home.

Ryanscare - 33 Ryanair passengers hospitalised after cabin pressure loss

Ryanair stand accused of abandoning passengers after a flight falls 26,000 feet in just seven minutes following cabin pressure loss, leaves more than 30 people needing hospitalisation.

The Ryanair flight FR7312 had been heading to Zadar, Croatia from Dublin when the cabin lost pressure and the crew made an emergency descent, going down 26,000 feet in just under seven minutes. 

The crew diverted the plane to Frankfurt-Hahn Airport in Germany, where 33 of the passengers, some bleeding from the ears or nose and mouth needed to have hospital treatment in Frankfurt. 

Ryanair tried to downplay the situations, first saying oxygen masks were deployed as a precaution, and the crew carried out a "controlled descent" and then "landed normally and customers disembarked, where a small number received medical attention as a precaution".

New Delta route between Raleigh Durham and Chicago

The American regional airline Skywest will open a new route for Delta Air Lines - Delta Connection, between Raleigh-Durham International Airport, North Carolina to Chicago's O'Hare Airport.

The route will start on 2nd April 2019 with Skywest Embraer E175 aircraft and is scheduled to operate three times a day, except for Saturdays, when only two flights each way will operate.

According to the schedule, the flights will depart at 0700, 1230 and 1759 from Raleigh, arriving in Chicago at 0820, 1350 and 1919.  The returns from Chicago are scheduled for 0855, 1425 and 1955 landing in Rayleigh 1155, 1725 and 2255. The last flight of the day is scheduled not to operate on a Saturday. 

LOT Polish Airlines to start Tel Aviv - Krakow route

Star Alliance member LOT Polish Airlines has this week confirmed it will be starting a new service from Krakow to Israel's Tel Aviv from 25th February 2019.

The airline tells us that tickets are on sale now and the route will be operated by a Boeing 737 - 800 aircraft and initially will fly twice a week. 

The new service will start off flying on Monday's and Wednesday's however, from 22nd April the days will change to Tuesday's and Thursday's.  Currently, the schedule will see the 787-800 depart Krakow at 0550, arriving Tel Aviv 1025 with the return leg departing 2115 landing back in Krakow 2359, all times local and subject to change. 

Photo Jacek Bonczek

Another BA 777 suffers engine failure in flight

A British Airways jet suffered an engine failure shortly after taking off from Singapore and needed to dump fuel urgently to return to the airport on one engine.

The Boeing 777-300ER, with the registration G-STBE was operating flight BA16 to London Heathrow and had just taken off from Singapore and was climbing over Malaysia when the incident happened today.  Passengers on the flight report feeling a shuddering and other vibrations but remained calm.  

The pilot announced shortly after that the right-hand engine had malfunctioned and they were going to return to Singapore after dumping some fuel to lighten the aircraft to enable it to be able to land. Fire crews greeted the aircraft as soon as it had turned off the runway and inspected it. Shortly afterwards, the aircraft taxied to a departure gate where passengers were able to disembark the aircraft. 

Ryanair at war with Lufthansa over Laudamotion

A war of words has broken out between two major European airlines this week with one accusing the other of telling lies.

Ryanair and Lufthansa have both issued press briefings today attacking each other over Laudamotion - the airline set up by Niki Lauda from the ashes of the Air Berlin with the express intention of selling it off to Ryanair.

In an expected rubber stamping exercise the EU Commission approved Ryanair’s proposed acquisition of a 75 percent interest in Austrian airline of which it already owns 24.9 percent.

The Irish low-fare-high-fee airline welcomed the move, but then attacked Lufthansa by saying that the German carrier was trying to remove the 9 aircraft it had to lease to Laudamotion to get the airline off the ground. They said "This is the latest in a series of efforts by Lufthansa to destabilise and damage Laudamotion, which has seen:

– Lufthansa fail to deliver 2 of the 11 aircraft they were required to under the EU Competition decision concerning Lufthansa’s acquisition of Air Berlin.

– Some of the aircraft that Lufthansa had committed to deliver being delayed until after the summer 2018 season, further reducing Laudamotion’s ability to take up slots and offer S2018 flights and services.

– Laudamotion only able to operate a 19 aircraft fleet in summer 2018 by wet leasing 10 B737 aircraft from Ryanair.

– Lufthansa Group delay payment of over €1.5m of wet lease payments properly due to Laudamotion, for flights which Laudamotion operated for Lufthansa in March, April and May."

Hi Fly to show A380 at Farnborough Air Show.

The wide-body wet lease specialists Hi Fly, have confirmed it will be showcasing its first Airbus A380 at this year's Farnborough Airshow 2018.

The airline will be at the event along with Airbus, from the 19th to the 22nd of July showing off its latest feet acquisition to the industry. During the Farnborough show, people will be able to enjoy the A380's new livery as well as experience the aircraft’s optimized interiors.

The inclusion of the A380 in Hi Fly’s fleet is a major event not only for the airline but for the industry as it becomes the 4th European airline to operate this model, and the 14th global operator and first Wet Lease airline to fly the aircraft.

More flights from Bristol for Easter 2019 with Thomas Cook.

The UK holiday airline, Thomas Cook Airlines has said it will be adding Easter 2019 flights from Bristol Airport, offering over 12,000 seats some top holiday destinations.

From the 3rd April 2019, the airline will introduce 10 additional flights a week until the end of the month, to destinations including Turkey, Tunisia, Egypt, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Majorca. 

Thomas Cook Airlines now flies to 25 sun and beach destinations from Bristol and has increased its number of seats on sale at Easter by 40% versus 2018. Commercial Director at Thomas Cook Airlines, Henry Sunley, said,  “This is a bigger Easter programme from Bristol than ever before, with our season traditionally ramping up from May 1. It’s great to be able to reward our customers who fly with us from Bristol airport with even more choice and we look forward to adding more destinations from Bristol in the near future.”

 “This is exciting news. The increased capacity for next year builds on the strong growth we are experiencing with Thomas Cook from Bristol Airport in 2018." said, Nigel Scott, Business Development Director, Bristol Airport. 

The first Turkish Airlines A321neo delivered

Pratt & Whitney along with Turkish Airlines celebrated the delivery of the airline's first Airbus A321neo aircraft. This aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan™ (GTF) engines, as will the remaining 91 aircraft from the carrier's order for A321neo. The GTF engine is 16 percent more fuel efficient and 75 percent quieter than current contemporary engines. 

"We are very excited to integrate our first GTF-powered A321neo aircraft into our ever-expanding fleet," said Ahmet Bolat, chief investment and technology officer, Turkish Airlines. "This aeroplane and engine will allow us to provide a quiet flight experience to our passengers, expand our route network, and reduce fuel consumption."

Turkish Airlines currently operates a fleet of 97 V2500-powered A320ceo family aircraft and 10 PW4000-powered A330-200 aircraft. The airline has a long history with the manufacturer, dating back to the DC3 aircraft powered by the Wasp engines. 

The aircraft also features the Airbus 'Cabin-Flex' configurations for up to 240 passengers. Turkish Airlines will operate the aircraft in a configuration with 20 seats in Business Class and 162 in Economy Class.

China Southern Airlines launch flights to London

China Southern Airlines has launched the first intercontinental route between Sanya and London this week, with an inaugural flight carring 214 passengers from Sanya's Phoenix International Airport, on the 12th July.

The schedule for the new service will see the China Southern Airlines' flight CZ651 depart Sanya at 13:00 CST every Thursday and Sunday, to arrives in London at 18:45 local time. The return journey, flight number CZ652 departs London at 22:10 local time, arriving back home in Sanya at 16:20 local time. Normally scheduled flight time is around 12 hours and 45 minutes.

Andrew Ould from The British Consulate said, "Hainan is facilitating the construction of China's free-trade zone. I believe that the launch of the direct flight between Sanya and London will help attract more visitors from the UK to spend their holidays in Sanya and UK-based companies to invest and establish facilities in the city." 

Sanya has experienced an impressive growth in tourism over recent times, welcoming approximately 450,000 visitors during 2016, rising to 700,000 last year. Sanya has launched 34 international routes serving 25 destinations such as the UK, Russia, South Korea, and Japan to further develop global connections to the free-trade zone. 

Atlas Air and GoJet agreement.

The worlds largest operator of 747 cargo aircraft Atlas Air has entered into an agreement with US regional airline GoJet Airlines that will guarantee interviews for GoJet's pilots with just two years experience.

The deal will also be open for GoJet First Officers with military flying experience, who will be eligible for an interview with Atlas after just one year of service at GoJet.  "We are delighted to begin this special relationship with GoJet," said Atlas Air President and Chief Operating Officer John W. Dietrich. "Aviation is at the centre of today's modern global economy. And its continued ability to provide access to markets, serve as a catalyst for international trade, and propel economic and social development will benefit greatly from innovative partnerships like this one, which will help ensure a solid pipeline of attractive candidates dedicated to a career in aviation."

UK's airports need to do more for disabled passengers

The UK's Civil Aviation Authority says the country's 30 biggest airports are failing disabled passengers and access is poor. 

Bottom of the list is Manchester Airport, that for the second year in a row has been rated poor.  London Gatwick, London Stansted and Birmingham are also cited by the CAA as in need of improvement. The CAA said "the impact on individuals is significant" when things go wrong, and there was  "more to do to improve journeys for disabled passengers and those with reduced mobility". 

Manchester's problems centred on "long waiting times for assistance and issues with the recording and reporting of performance data" according to the CAA. In some cases, disabled passengers had been left awaiting assistance for more than an hour and "not an acceptable situation".

London Heathrow has been praised for its improvement over the last year when it was rated as poor, this year it has climbed to the 'good' category.  "The passenger journey on arrival is now much quicker and generally seamless from aircraft to final point," according to the CAA, although many disabled passengers still say the airport lacks consistency in terms of assistance given or offered to them.

The report is here.

E-Cig puffing first officer causes rapid descent of Air China flight.

It has been revealed that a member of the flight deck crew puffing away on an electronic cigarette caused a rapid descent of an Air China this week.

According to investigators, the co-pilot had been smoking an e-cigarette or vaping on the Air China flight from Hong Kong to the city of Dalian and had tried to cover the fact but accidentally shut off the air-conditioning in the process causing oxygen levels to fall in the cabin.

The crew on Tuesday's flight released oxygen masks and brought the aircraft more than 21.000ft lower while they tried to work out what was going on. The aircraft later returned to its cruising altitude. 

LATAM's June

LATAM Airlines Group, the leading airline group in Latin America,  reported its preliminary monthly traffic statistics for June 2018 compared to June 2017. this week.

System passenger traffic increased 1.3%, while capacity rose by 6.4%. As a result, the Company's load factor for the month fell 4.1 percentage points to 80.3%. International passenger traffic accounted for approximately 59% of the month's total passenger traffic.

American adds biodegradable, eco-friendly stir sticks onboard and in lounges

American Airlines has followed the lead of many restaurants and coffee shops by deciding to ditch plastic straws.  Starting this month, the carrier will cut out plastic straws and stirrers from its aircraft and lounges and replace them with an eco-friendly straw and wood stir stick. American will also begin transitioning to all eco-friendly flatware within lounges.

American Airlines Lays Down the Straw

In November, change is in the air when the transition from a plastic straw/stir stick that is usually offered during onboard beverage service changes to a stir stick made of sustainable and environmentally friendly bamboo. With these changes, American will eliminate more than 71,000 pounds of plastic per year.

American’s onboard environmental sustainability efforts go back to 1989 when the airline's flight attendants started the industry’s first onboard recycling program. Through this program, American recycles hundreds of thousands of pounds of aluminium per year, with proceeds going to The Wings Foundation, a charitable organization administered by active American Airlines flight attendants to assist fellow flight attendants in times of need. American also transitioned away from plastic foam cups to paper cups in 2015.

“We're very excited and proud to share this initiative with our team members and customers,” said Jill Surdek, Vice President, Flight Service. “We’re cognizant of our impact on the environment and we remain committed to doing our part to sustain the planet for future generations of travellers.”

Delta Air Lines latest figures.

Delta Air Lines issued its latest financial results recently which showed the pre-tax income for the June quarter 2018 was $1.6 billion, a $183 million decrease from the June 2017 period, which the airline blamed predominantly on higher fuel prices.    

"With an expected $2 billion higher fuel bill for 2018, we are now forecasting our full-year earnings to be $5.35 to $5.70 per share. We have seen early success in addressing the fuel cost increase and offset two-thirds of the impact in the June quarter," said Ed Bastian, Delta's Chief Executive Officer.  "With strong revenue momentum, an improving cost trajectory, and a reduction of 50-100 bps of underperforming capacity from our fall schedule, we have positioned Delta to return to margin expansion by year-end."

Porter's new basic low fare only

The Canadian airline based at Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport, Porter, has said it is bringing in a new low-level fare level as it moves towards a more low-cost-carrier model.

The new Porter basic fares is a non-changeable and non-flexible kind of ticket with no luggage or cabin baggage allowed, however, passengers will still be able to avail themselves of the free beverages and snacks onboard. The pre-allocating of seats is also allowed for a fee, starting at £24.

"This product appeals to the most price-conscious traveller," said Michael Deluce, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Porter Airlines. "The Basic fare will attract new customers who are looking for the lowest price. Like all Porter fares, it includes our award winning Flying Refined service."

Basic fares are now available on select routes: Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Timmins and Windsor. The intention is to make them available on additional routes over a period of time.

Impressive profits for Norwegian during the second quarter.

The European low-cost airline that is shaking up transatlantic travel, has reported second-quarter earnings today showing a net profit of NOK 300 million, in spite of what the airline calls the highest levels of growth in its history.

The airline that recently Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary called a 'dog', posted a loss of NOK 691 million the second quarter last year, so a net profit of NOK 300 million this quarter shows this 'dog' is more a pedigree than a mutt.

Ten million passengers flew with Norwegian during the second quarter, an increase of 16 percentage points, while the load factor was down slightly to 86.8 percent. The load factor is particularly impressive considering the rapid growth the carrier has undertaken in recent times adding new bases and new routes, predominantly to the USA.   

Southwest Airlines latest figures 2018

Southwest Airlines reported its June, second quarter, and year-to-date 2018 preliminary traffic statistics, this week.

The Company flew 12.2 billion revenue passenger miles (RPMs) in June 2018, an increase of 2.6 percent from the 11.9 billion RPMs flown in June 2017. Available seat miles (ASMs) increased 3.2 percent to 14.1 billion in June 2018, compared with June 2017 ASMs of 13.6 billion. The June 2018 load factor was 86.9 percent, compared with 87.4 percent in June 2017.