American Airlines awarded five star status

A “Five Star Global Airline”  that is the new mantle, the mega US carrier American Airlines can now boast after the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) announced its airline rankings on Monday.

“Being named a Five Star airline shows that our customers are noticing our investments and the hard work by our team,” said Kurt Stache, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Loyalty & Sales for American. “It’s an honour to be one of only three North American airlines to receive this distinction.” 

The airline says the high ranking it has been awarded is a testament to the carriers $3 billion investment in the customer experience, including improvements in food and beverage offerings, in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi.  

Air Canada Pilots Association call on Canadian Government to fix unsafe pilot fatigue rules

In a bold move, the Air Canada Pilots Association have endorsed recommendations that have come from south of the border from the United States' National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) over pilot fatigue.

The ACPA is calling on the Government of Canada to fix what the association say are outdated fatigue regulations that risk passenger and pilot safety.  Captain Matt Hogan, Chair of ACPA's Master Elected Council said, "We thank the NTSB for their comprehensive review.  Their findings on fatigue underscore the many years of urgent calls by Canada's pilots for flight crew fatigue rules that are supported by science. The government's proposed rules fall short; they would allow Canadian pilots who begin their duty at 9 pm to operate two hours longer than NASA research recommends, and even longer than would be permitted in the United States. Canada's new fatigue rules must close this two-hour gap."

Republic Airways reaches agreement with cabin crew union

Republic Airways and Teamsters Local 135 union announced earlier this week that they had reached a tentative agreement on terms of a new five-year contract for the roughly 2,100 Republic Flight Attendants represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (“IBT”).

Norwegian soars to 250,000 passengers on flights from Dublin Airport to the USA

Best low-cost airline in Europe and World’s best low-cost long-haul airline, Norwegian has announced it has reached an important milestone in its continued growth at Dublin Airport by flying more than 250,000 transatlantic passengers to and from the New York and Boston areas since launch.

The airline’s affordable flights to smaller airports near two major US east coast cities has generated strong demand among Irish and American consumers. Norwegian is the only airline in Ireland to operate nonstop flights to New York Stewart International Airport and Providence International Airport, Rhode Island and will increase its weekly transatlantic flights from Dublin next summer by 33 per cent with the addition of a brand-new daily service to Hamilton (Toronto) Canada from 31 March 2019.

In the blink of an eye.......BAE Systems looking at new ways of flying

These days technology moves so fast, that it seems everything changes in the blink of an eye!  That is exactly what those clever experts at BAE Systems are developing, new technologies to enable pilots to control the fighter jet of the future with the blink of an eye.

With military domains becoming way more contested, technologies are becoming more complex, and sources of data multiply it is crucial that pilots are able to quickly access, assess and act on critical information.

BAE Systems’ specialist team of Human Factors engineers collaborate with pilots to better understand and anticipate their needs in this challenging environment. These insights shape the intuitive technologies that the team is developing for the cockpit of the future.

La Compagnie to offer high speed Wi-Fi from Viasat.

The business class boutique French airline, La Compagnie, has partnered with Viasat Inc. a global communications company, to equip La Compagnie's brand-new, all-business-class A321neo aircraft with high-speed Wi-Fi capabilities.  Deployment of the new in-flight Wi-Fi service is scheduled for April 2019—making unlimited in-flight connectivity available to all 76 passengers onboard the two daily flights the airlines operate between Paris and New York.

 "We are excited to offer unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi to all the passengers onboard our new aircraft," said Jean Charles Périno, executive vice president of Sales and Marketing for La Compagnie. "Viasat's in-flight connectivity has unmatched speed, quality and affordability so everyone onboard can experience the internet just like they do in their home or office. Business-class democratization is in our DNA. This is a perfect match with Viasat's solution: we will be offering this unlimited Wi-Fi access at a fraction of the cost of competitive solutions, following our low-fare approach. We are proud, as a small airline, to have the best in the market to offer to our passengers." 

Aeroflots August - double digit incrases in passenger numbers for the Russian Airline

The Russian airline Aeroflot had another bumper month in August the airline has revealed in its latest figures. 

The Aeroflot Group carried an amazing 6.0 million passengers during August this year, which is an increase of 14.0% over the same period last year. Aeroflot itself,  carried 3.6 million passengers, a year-on-year increase of 11.7%.

Group and Company RPKs were up 11.8% and 9.4% year-on-year, respectively. ASKs rose by 10.2% for Aeroflot Group and by 7.8% for Aeroflot airline.

On domestic routes, Group passengers carried and RPKs grew by 16.3% and 15.8% year-on-year, respectively. ASKs grew by 12.5% year-on-year. Company passengers carried and RPKs increased by 14.4% and 12.5% year-on-year, respectively. ASKs grew by 8.7%.

British Airways to launch London City to Munich service and increase schedules on other routes

Munich will become another new destination from London City Airport with British Airways next year when the carrier launch flights to the German city in February.

The airline confirmed this week that from 16th February 2019 it will operate three-times-a-day to the Bavarian beer capital of Munich on a year-round basis with fares starting at just £59. next year.

This is the latest addition to carriers expansion plans to its operations from the London Docklands airport. Further to the new service, British Airways will also add extra winter frequency on the popular Berlin, Dublin and Prague routes from 10th November and Geneva in December.  Return flights to Berlin will go up to 18 a week, Dublin to 38 a week, Prague to seven a week and Geneva to 16 a week from December.

Luke Hayhoe, British Airways’ general manager commercial and customer, said: “As promised we are adding more choice for our customers at London City Airport with a new route and extra frequency to four of our most popular destinations. The addition of Munich to our schedule complements our existing flights to Berlin, Dusseldorf and Frankfurt and means that we will be flying 82 return flights a week to Germany direct from the Docklands this winter. The new route will increase the number of British Airways’ destinations from London City Airport to 34.”

The 50th Sukhoi Superjet 100 for Aeroflot

This week has been a major milestone for both Aeroflot and for the United Aircraft Corporation as the 50th Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ 100) is delivered to the leading Russian airline.

This 50th jet marks the successful completion of two firm orders for 30 and 20 of the aircraft the leading Russian airline had made. Aeroflot has given this 50th Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ 100) aircraft the registration RA-89115, and named it after the Russian painter Vasily Polenov. 

The official presentation of the new aircraft took place on Tuesday, at Sheremetyevo airport, with senior management from both Aeroflot and United Aircraft Corporation present.

Vitaly Saveliev, CEO of Aeroflot, said, “Aeroflot is pleased to welcome its 50th Superjet 100. Earlier this month, at the Eastern Economic Forum, we signed a major aircraft delivery agreement to receive 100 more modern Russian-built SSJ100 aircraft, with President Putin present for the signing ceremony. This agreement will bring the total number of Russian-built aircraft in Aeroflot’s fleet to 200, 50 of which will be the innovative MC-21."

Singapore Airlines gets its first A350-900 Ultra long Range jet.

Singapore Airlines took delivery of the world’s first Airbus A350-900ULR (ultra-long-range) aircraft from Airbus during last weekend. 

The aircraft, looking spectacular in the classy Singapore Airlines livery, is the first of seven A350-900ULRs on firm order and is scheduled to enter normal revenue service on 11th October when it embarks on the world’s longest commercial flight between Singapore and Newark Liberty International Airport.

“This is a proud moment for both Singapore Airlines and Airbus, not only because we have again strengthened our partnership, but also because we have pushed the limits with this highly advanced new aircraft to extend long-range flying to new lengths,” said Singapore Airlines CEO, Mr Goh Choon Phong.

Singapore Airlines is the launch customer for the new A350-900ULR, which is capable of flying up to 9,700 nautical miles (nm), or over 20 hours non-stop. The flight to New York will cover a distance of approximately 9,000nm (16,700km), with travelling time of up to 18 hours 45 minutes. The aircraft is configured in a two-class layout, with 67 Business Class seats and 94 Premium Economy Class seats.

See more photos of the ultra long-range A350-900 below. 

Air Belgium puts scheduled flights on hold

It is perhaps an expected move, but fledgeling airline Air Belgium has decided to call a halt, at least temporarily, to its services to Hong Kong with almost immediate effect.

Many in the industry have questioned the viability of the new start-up airline, with both its choice of aircraft and route selection. Despite offering a good in-flight product the airline hasn't seen anywhere near enough passengers to be a commercial success. 

The airline cited 'non-respect of contractual terms by its major commercial partner regarding tariffs and load factor' for the curtailment of its scheduled operations.  The airline is, we're told looking at other avenues for resuming the flights to Hong Kong, however, in the meantime it will continue to wet lease its Airbus A340 aircraft to other carriers, such as British Airways. 

In the latest news from the carrier, it says it will continue to focus on launching its air service to Mainland China, with destinations such as Zhengzhou. The airline isn't letting any staff go at this stage as all the cabin and flight crew are needed for the wet leasing operations and the airline is in the process of contacting affected passengers it said.  

Air Belgium also says it is committed to operations from Charleroi Airport, "We also would like to make clear that our decision to operate scheduled air services from Brussels Charleroi airport is not questioned and will be maintained. Customers satisfaction and the convenience has been validated by massive positive feedback and our strategy to operate from Charleroi is to remain." its latest statement advised.

(Photo Air Belgium / Benjamin Brolet)

First Airbus A320neo for Sky Airlines delivered

Another A320neo takes to the Sky!   The Chilean low cost carrier and all-Airbus operator Sky Airline has taken delivery of its first A320neo aircraft, on lease from ALC, at a delivery ceremony in Toulouse, France. 

Sky Airline’s A320neo is powered by CFM Leap1A engines and has a capacity of 186 passengers, incorporating innovative Space Flex features.

This new A320neo joins Sky Airline’s existing fleet of 15 A320 Family aircraft and is the first of 21 A320neos to be leased by the airline.

No deal Brexit wont halt flights say UK Government

A no deal Brexit wont halt flights from Europe the UK's government has said this week in new papers published on Monday.

Britain will still allow airlines from the European Union to fly into the UK (and its airspace) even if there is no Brexit deal is agreed and signed.

The UK will keep to European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), regulations and rules in relation to aviation safety the papers confirm. The UK says that functions currently performed by EASA would instead be performed by Britain’s aviation regulator, the Civil Aviation Agency (CAA). The UK would envisage granting permission to EU airlines to continue to operate, the official papers state, with the hope that the EU would reciprocate.  

British Airways says こんにちは to Osaka!

British Airways says hello to Osaka!

The UK's British Airways is launching direct flights to Japan’s second largest city, Osaka from next March the airline confirmed this week.

The route will be operated by one of British Airways’ newest aircraft, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, with special return fares from £599 in World Traveller, £999 in World Traveller Plus and £2499 in Club World.  Starting on 31st March the carrier will fly four times each week from London Heathrow Terminal 5 and landing into Osaka’s Kansai International Airport. 

The new route takes the number of daily flights between London and Japan offered as part of British Airways’ joint business with Japan Airlines up to 32 per week. British Airways is also adding four cities to that joint business agreement with the BA code being put on flights between Tokyo Haneda and Miyazaki, Kumamoto, Komatsu and Matsuyama.  Japan Airlines will also offer a codeshare on the new service.

US Air Froce awards $2.4billion contract to Boeing for 84 MH-139 helicopters

The US aerospace giant Boeing has confirmed it will provide its MH-139 helicopter and related support to the US Air Force to replace the 40+ year-old UH-1N helicopters, known affectionately as “Huey”  which are used primarily to protect America’s intercontinental ballistic missile bases.

The contract is valued at more than $2.4 billion to Boeing, for up to 84 helicopters, training devices and associated support equipment. The MH-139 is a slightly modified version of the popular AgustaWestland / Leonardo AW139, which is used by more than 270 governments, militaries and companies worldwide. Leonardo Helicopters will assemble the craft at its northeast Philadelphia plant, with Boeing integrating military-specific components at its facility south of that city.

“We’re grateful for the Air Force’s confidence in our MH-139 team,” said David Koopersmith, vice president and general manager, Boeing Vertical Lift. “The MH-139 exceeds mission requirements, it’s also ideal for VIP transport, and it offers the Air Force up to $1 billion in acquisition and lifecycle cost savings.”

(Photos Boeing)

American to launch direct flights to Melbourne International from Philadelphia

Philadelphia residents will get another way direct to Floridian sunshine, top-class theme parks and fantastic beaches as American Airlines announced a new service direct to Melbourne International Airport, Orlando. 

American Airlines revealed it will begin nonstop flights to Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) on 16th Feb 2019 from its Philadelphia hub.  The flights will depart Saturdays from Philadelphia at 8:05 a.m., arriving in Florida at 10:48 a.m. The Embraer 175 jet arrival time syncs perfectly with cruise ship noon early boarding. Melbourne Airport Express offers a nonstop shuttle service to the port, and all major rental car companies are onsite. 

The return flight to Philadephia at 11:24 a.m. and arrives at 1:55 p.m., with enough time to connect to some of American's largest international destinations, including recently announced summer service to Dubrovnik, Croatia and Bologna, Italy.

United Airlines adds flights for CES 2019 in Las Vegas. An extra 8,500 seats added.

The US mega-carrier, United Airlines has advised today that will be adding more than 8,500 seats from its U.S. hubs and eight other U.S. cities to connecting more customers than ever to Las Vegas for CES 2019 in January. CES is the very popular trade show where new products are unveiled and next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace. 

"We want United Airlines to be the first choice for business and leisure travellers planning to visit Las Vegas for CES," said Ankit Gupta, United's vice president of Domestic Network Planning. "Our enhanced schedule to Las Vegas offers customers more nonstop flights from our hubs and new nonstop flights from eight of the country's top technology and business centres."

Inside the new look EVA Air Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Last week EVA Air announced its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner would be delivered at a special ceremony located at Boeing's South Carolina centre in Charleston on 2nd October.  However, the carrier gave us all a little sneak preview of the event by showing us inside the new aircraft that has room for 304 passengers.

“The introduction of Boeing 787 Dreamliners is essential to our continuous pursuit of service excellence,” said EVA President Clay Sun. “We have adopted a more modern, globalized design concept and combined it with Boeing’s latest aviation technologies to create a luxurious cabin environment and provide all our passengers with an even more comfortable flying experience.”

The airline has configured the aircraft to accommodate 26 passengers in its Royal Laurel Class, a true business product and 278 in economy class.  The carrier chose Designworks, a BMW Group company, to synchronize the airline’s international brand image and the Dreamliner’s unique craftsmanship into the design of this latest generation of Royal Laurel Class seats. The design team stepped away from conventional aircraft design and used core concepts of space and brand to create tailor-made business class seats seamlessly integrated into a bespoke cabin environment. The team used mature, muted colours to enhance the feeling of a comfortable, spacious environment.

airBaltic welcomes Pope Francis on an Airbus A220

The Latvian airline airBaltic is the official airline for Pope Francis and his official delegation on their trip to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia this week and welcomed the pontiff on one of its super comfortable Airbus A220s. 

It's the first time in history, that an airBaltic Airbus A220-300 aircraft has carried the papal delegation on any journey and is something the airline is genuinely proud of. Martin Gauss, CEO of airBaltic: “It is a great honour and pride for the Latvian airline airBaltic to become the official carrier of the Papal delegation’s visit to the Baltics. It will be a significant visit, as all three Baltic states are celebrating their centenary this year.”  

Tasty and healthy new menu for American Airlines economy passengers

New delicious, light and healthy choices will be available onboard American Airlines flights from 1st December as the major US airline joins forces with Zoës Kitchen for a new food-for-sale menu in the main economy cabin. 

The new menu has been designed in collaboration with Zoës head chef and Vice President of Culinary Innovation Antonio Iocchi, and includes items unique to American as well as signature dishes found in Zoës restaurants, such as its signature hummus and The Grüben sandwich. 

“Zoës mission to deliver goodness from the inside out and their ‘simple, tasty, fresh’ offerings made it an easy decision to partner with the fast-casual, healthy restaurant group,” said Janelle Anderson, Vice President of Global Marketing for American Airlines. “Our customers have asked for lighter tasty food choices. This collaboration with the expert chefs at Zoës provides an innovative, fresh approach to onboard offerings.”

Aeromexico to install Viasat in-flight WiFi to new 737 Max aircraft

Aeromexico has confirmed today that it will deploy the Viasat in-flight internet system across 18 new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, with an option to extend up to 60 aircraft. The first line-fit installations of Viasat's equipment has already begun.

Aeromexico evaluated the Viasat in-flight internet service against competitor offerings and chose Viasat based on its proven, scalable network platform. Aeromexico's ability to tap into the ViaSat-2 satellite as well as Viasat's future satellites, gave the airline great confidence it would be able to offer the best service quality with:

Optimal in-flight Wi-Fi reliability for the best and most consistent online experience gate-to-gate.
Fast onboard internet speeds ensuring passengers and crew have advanced streaming, downloading and web browsing capabilities.
High value internet performance as Viasat's satellite system offers significant capacity and competitive bandwidth to Aeromexico's flight routes.
A futureproofed approach to in-flight Wi-Fi, that will give Aeromexico access to the top-of-the-market advanced satellite communications system and spacecraft innovations to meet the growing broadband demands of the fully connected aircraft.

Air Transat signs partnership with SNCF to offer TGV AIR, an air-rail combo!

 Air Transat taking the plane to the train!

In an interesting move, Air Transat is all set to offer passengers with a new product that combines air and rail travel, in partnership with SNCF, France's national rail service. 

The airline says customers will be able to purchase a single ticket comprising a flight to Paris plus TGV AIR service enabling them to complete their journey on the TGV high-speed rail network within France or to Brussels, Belgium.

Air Transat and SNCF promise a simple service delivering several benefits: a single booking, a single fare and a single ticket. It will be available as of January 2019, and travellers will be able to book from Canada starting in December.

"We are the leading air carrier connecting Canada and France in summer, with our direct flights to eight French cities," says Annick Guérard, Chief Operating Officer, Transat. "With TGV AIR, we want to make life easier for travellers and broaden their horizons year-round, making it easy for families, friends and holidayers to get where they want to go in France or Belgium, experiencing new destinations and reaching them faster. We are pleased to be the first airline in mainland North America to offer this service in partnership with SNCF. TGV AIR is the perfect complement to our range of direct flights to France and Belgium," she adds.

First 90-seat Q400 aircraft delivered to SpiceJet

At the end of last week, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft delivered the first 90-seat Q400 aircraft to India's SpiceJet,  the launch operator for the extra-capacity, 90-seat aircraft.

“We are excited to induct the 90-seat Q400 aircraft into our fleet,” said Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, SpiceJet. “The additional seats and performance improvements will result in substantial reduction in unit costs and also we will be able to address our market needs in the regional space.”

New route to Panama City from Air Europa

Panama City to get new air service from Madrid Air Europa, the Latin America specialist airline has confirmed.  The growing carrier says it will start the new route 25th February 2019.

Air Europa will introduce flights to Tocumen International Airport, the international airport of Panama City, further cementing itself as a Latin American specialist as the addition of Panama will bring the number of Air Europa routes to the Latin America region to 20 destinations, in thirteen countries.

The flight will be operated by the latest Dreamliner B787-9 aircraft: it will depart from Air Europa’s hub at Madrid’s Barajas International Airport, with connections feeding in from all over Europe including London Gatwick airport. This new service will be operating five flights a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday).

End Wildlife Crime - the mission starts. The Duke of Cambridge embarks

His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge departed from Heathrow this evening on a British Airways A380 aircraft displaying the message #EndWildlifeCrime, kicking off a mission to highlight the urgent global threat to wildlife and people from the illegal wildlife trade.

Prince William will be undertaking a working trip to Namibia, Tanzania and Kenya. There he will be visiting a range of projects and meeting with conservationists, communities and law enforcement representatives working to halt poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

Speaking recently at an event at the Royal African Society, The Duke of Cambridge said:

“Like so many others, I am deeply saddened by the numbers of elephant, rhino and pangolin who have been illegally slaughtered for their tusks, horns and scales. But the illegal wildlife trade also has a devastating human impact.

“Too many brave rangers are tragically killed each year by poachers. Communities see their tourist livelihoods threatened. And the proceeds of the illegal wildlife trade fund broader criminal networks and threaten security.

“This is why I am committed to doing what I can to help end this terrible, global crime. This will be a particular focus of my upcoming visit to Africa, and of course the conference on the illegal wildlife trade taking place here in London in October.”

3D Printed latches for A350 passenger jets produced by Airbus Helicopters

In a major milestone for 3D printing production, Airbus Helicopters last week officially launched the production of latch shafts for the doors of A350 passenger aircraft using 3D manufacturing. 

The printed components are cheaper to produce and weigh less than their counterparts made using traditional means, thereby helping Airbus to offer ever more economical and environmentally friendly aircraft. Airbus Helicopters in Donauwörth is manufacturing doors for all Airbus aircraft programmes as a supplier. The redesign of the latch shafts and the new production process have resulted in Airbus’s first large-scale production using metallic 3D printing.

US$600,000 donation from American Airlines for Florence relief

American Airlines has confirmed it will donate $300,000 to its long-time US national partner the American Red Cross and an additional $300,000 to the North Carolina Community Foundation Disaster Relief Fund to ease the burdens that have been placed upon thousands of Carolinians as Hurricane Florence made landfall last week. The Red Cross donation is possible thanks to the generosity of American’s customers and the company’s corporate giving initiatives.

“American's roots in North Carolina go back 70 years, and we are keenly focused on making sure our fellow Carolinians are well taken care of in this time of need,” said Dec Lee, American’s Vice President of CLT Hub Operations.  

Airbus delivers first aircraft from Mobile powered by sustainable jet fuel blend

From the Mobile production facility in the US, Airbus has delivered its first aircraft partially powered by sustainable jet fuel to low-cost airline, JetBlue.

In total, five A321 aircraft are due to be delivered to JetBlue from Mobile using sustainable fuel by the end of 2018. All of the fuel will be supplied and certified by Air BP. It will be loaded into the aircraft by Signature Flight Support, Airbus’ fueling services provider in Mobile.

Since May 2016, Airbus has offered customers the option of taking delivery of new aircraft from Toulouse, France, using a blend of sustainable jet fuel. Following the deliveries to JetBlue, Airbus will determine the next steps toward offering this option to more customers taking aircraft deliveries from Mobile. Longer term, Airbus envisions supporting industrial production of sustainable fuels for aviation in the southeastern U.S.

Airbus to show off A220 cabin at APEX Expo in Boston - Tuesday 25 to Thursday 27 September

The Pan European planemaker Airbus has advised that it will showcase the latest cabin innovations at this year’s APEX Expo in Boston, USA next week.

The APEX Expo is the largest dedicated event for the in-flight passenger entertainment experience, connectivity and passenger services in the world.  This year at its sleekly designed booth Airbus will introduce the latest ‘Connected-Cabin’ innovations for a personalised passenger experience and will also present the interior of its latest aircraft family member – the A220. 

Airbus will also update visitors with the ongoing rollout of the Airspace cabin brand. Moreover, partnering with Inflight VR, Airbus is one of three finalists for the Crystal Cabin Award category “Best Customer Journey Experience”. The official awards ceremony will take place on the eve of the Expo – Monday, 24 September.

A highlight of the Expo will be the debut of Airbus’ new full-size A220 Family interior mock-up – which affirms Airbus’ industry-leading cabin experience and superior comfort for smaller single-aisle aircraft. In particular, visitors to the A220 mock-up will experience the aircraft’s passenger-pleasing features including wide seats and aisle, high-capacity overhead baggage stowage and large windows.

Visit Airbus at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Exhibit Hall Level 0 - Exhibit Hall C; Airbus booth #143 – from Tuesday 25 to Thursday 27 September

(photos Airbus)

First 787 Dreamliner for Shanghai Airlines

Boeing and Shanghai Airlines celebrated the delivery of the carrier's first 787-9 Dreamliner today, the airline says it plans to use the aircraft on its regional and long-range service from its base in China's largest city.

The new aeroplane, with a special symbol of "100" on its fuselage, is the 100th aeroplane for Shanghai Airlines, a subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines. "We are so excited to take delivery of the very first Dreamliner for Shanghai Airlines, as well as China Eastern Group," said Li Yangmin, vice president of China Eastern Group. "With the introduction of these new aeroplanes, China Eastern Group will also officially launch the global leading new generation Passenger Service System.  We are confident that all these efforts will help us significantly upgrade our services and we know our passengers will love it."

Cathay Pacific and Qantas announce codesahe deal

 Qantas and Cathay Pacific

Codeshare 

The passengers of Hong Kong based Cathay Pacific and the Australian national carrier, Qantas are set to benefit from a new codeshare agreement that strengthens and enhances each carrier’s regional networks and provides more options for people travelling between Australia and Asia.

The new codeshare agreement will see Qantas add its flight code to Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon’s services within Asia from Hong Kong to 10 cities across India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Vietnam, and on Cathay Pacific’s long-haul services from Hong Kong to Perth and Cairns.

In turn, Cathay Pacific will add its flight code to 13 routes on the domestic network of Qantas in Australia.  

American Airlines increases baggage charges

The US mega-carrier, American Airlines is following the lead of other US airlines and increasing some of its luggage charges, with effect from today!

The airline is raising the price of a first and second bag checked in by $5 each, to $30 for a first checked bag and $40 for a second checked bag. The change is being implemented for all travel from today in North America and Caribbean destinations.

Checked baggage charges    1st bag  $30   2nd bag   $40

Some people will still be able to benefit from free checked baggage, such as those travellers with elite status AAdvantage memberships, Concierge Key and AAdvantage Executive Platinum, AAdvantage Platinum Pro; AAdvantage Platinum and AAdvantage Gold; eligible AAdvantage Aviator and Citi/AAdvantage cardmembers on domestic itineraries operated by American Airlines; customers confirmed in the first or business class cabin; customers in Premium Economy; other travelers booked in the same reservation as the eligible customer; and customers traveling on military fares (including spouse and immediate family).

KLM drops flights to Freetown and Monrovia to start a Las Vegas service

The Royal Dutch Airline, KLM has confirmed that it will operate flights between its home base of  Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport and the gambling capital of America, if not the world - Las Vegas, from June next year.

The airline says it will fly the route twice a week initially, on Fridays and Sundays from the 6th June 2019. A third weekly flight will be launched on Tuesdays from 2nd July 2019.

The flight schedule will be as follows:

KL0635 will depart from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol at 12:30 hours and arrive at 14:15 hours local time in Las Vegas at McCarran International.

KL0636 will leave Las Vegas at 16:05 local time and arrive the next day at 11:05 in Amsterdam at Schiphol.

KLM will operate the route with new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft which feature 30 seats in World Business Class, 45 seats in the Economy Comfort Class and a further 219 in the normal economy class.  

"Las Vegas will become KLM’s 18th North Atlantic destination to be served directly. Including Las Vegas as KLM’s latest destination will offer our customers even more flight connections to and from the west coast of America."  Said, KLM President & CEO Pieter Elbers.

Online fundraising campaign started by United Airlines

Today, United Airlines reaffirms its commitment to lifting up communities in need, launching a Crowdrise fundraising campaign for those affected in the U.S. and around the world by hurricane and typhoon season.

Delta to launch first biometric terminal in the U.S.

Delta to launch first biometric terminal in the U.S.

One look and you are on your way.

In a partnership announced today between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Delta Air Lines confirmed they are launching the first biometric terminal in the United States at Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal (Terminal F) in Atlanta. 

This new development which starts later this year will give passengers flying directly to an international destination the choice of using facial recognition technology from curb to gate, designed to transform a customers journey with a seamless travel experience through the airport, or following the normal procedures.

This optional, end-to-end Delta Biometrics experience includes using facial recognition technology to:
Check in at the self-service kiosks in the lobby
Drop checked baggage at the counters in the lobby
Serve as identification at the TSA checkpoint
Board a flight at any gate in Terminal F
And, go through CBP processing for international travellers arriving into the U.S.
Travelling on partner airlines Aeromexico, Air France-KLM or Virgin Atlantic Airways out of Terminal F? Those customers are eligible to use this technology too — another benefit of Delta’s unmatched global network of partnerships.

“Launching the first biometric terminal in the US. at the world’s busiest airport means we’re bringing the future of flying to customers travelling around the globe. Customers have an expectation that experiences along their journey are easy and happen seamlessly — that’s what we’re aiming for by launching this technology across airport touch points.” said Gil West, Delta Air Lines COO.

Etihad Airways deepens ties between UAE and Saudi Arabia to mark National Day

Etihad Airways has unveiled its series of activities to celebrate the leadership and people of Saudi Arabia on the 88th National Day of the Kingdom. 

To mark the occasion on Sunday 23 September, the airline’s flagship Year of Zayed branded A380 will be deployed on EY311 and EY312, between Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. The flight crew operating the aircraft will be Saudi and UAE Nationals.

Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Senior Vice President Government and International Affairs said: “In recognition of the special bond between our two countries, and the increasing importance of the Saudi market to the airline, we are delighted to host this exciting programme of events. Over the coming months, Etihad will continue to strengthen this relationship and announce new partnerships with key Saudi Arabian organisations that will add even greater value to our guests.”

Etihad recently announced sponsorship of Riyadh-based Al Nassr FC, one of Saudi Arabia’s most popular football teams, and players from the club have recorded a special video which will be broadcast on National Day.

Major developments to the Polish operations of Wizz Air

One of the fastest growing airlines in Europe, Wizz Air announced this week a major expansion of its operations in Poland for next year.

The popular low cost carrier says that economic passenger demand has caused the airline to announce that from 30th March 2019 the airline will close its Poznan base, however, the carrier will continue to operate a number of its routes from Poznan, including the Paris-Beauvais, London-Luton, Eindhoven, Doncaster-Sheffield and Torp-Sandefjord services. All affected employees at the Poznan base will be offered opportunities elsewhere in the Wizz Air network.

The airline will add a 7th aircraft to its Gdansk fleet, allowing it to launch four new services from the Pomeranian region. The additional A320 will allow the airline to connect Gdansk with Kharkiv from 28th October and Oslo, Kutaisi and Bremen, from early April, as well as increasing the number of weekly flights on popular routes to Aberdeen, Lviv, Gothenburg and Kyiv. The new aircraft will also facilitate the creation of more than 30 additional direct jobs with the airline at the Gdansk base.

Atlas Air to operate 747 freighter for SF Express

Atlas Air has entered into an aircraft transportation services agreement to operate a Boeing 747-400 Freighter for SF Express, China’s leading express service provider, to enhance operating capability between China and the United States. 

Atlas Air will operate the aircraft on behalf of SF Express on key global routes across the fast-growing transpacific market, connecting China with the United States. The aircraft is an incremental unit in Atlas Air’s fleet in response to customer demand and will enter into service in October 2018.

“We are delighted to welcome SF Express as a strategic customer and to continue expanding our position in the express industry and the Asia-Pacific market,” said William J. Flynn, President and Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “SF Express plays a very important role in the growing express and e-commerce industries, and we look forward to providing SF Express and its customers with unmatched service and a platform for future global expansion.”.

(Photo Atlas Air)

Hong Kong Airlines and El Al codeshare deal starts

Hong Kong Airlines’ codeshare partnership with EL AL Israel Airlines will kick off on 20 September 2018, with the former adding its “HX” code on the latter’s flights between Hong Kong and Tel Aviv. Reciprocally, EL AL will add its “LY” code on Hong Kong Airlines flights between Hong Kong and Auckland in New Zealand, as well as Seoul in South Korea.

Cathay Pacific group releases combined traffic figures for August 2018

The Hong Kong based Cathay Pacific released combined Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon traffic figures for August 2018 a little earlier this week, which showed an increase in both the number of passengers carried and cargo and mail transported compared to the same month in 2017.

In total Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon carried 3,278,481 passengers last month, which is an increase of 6.4% compared to August 2017.  Passenger load factor was 87.1% during the month, capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASKs), increased by 4.9%. In the first eight months of 2018, the number of passengers grew by 2.4% while capacity increased by 3.3%.

The two airlines carried 187,644 tonnes of cargo and mail last month, an increase of 8.9% compared to the same month last year. The cargo and mail load factor rose by 2.9 percentage points to 68.4%. Capacity, measured in available freight tonne kilometres (AFTKs), was increased by 2.8% while cargo and mail revenue freight tonne kilometres (RFTKs) increased by 7.4%. In the first eight months of 2018, the tonnage rose by 7.1% against a 3.3% increase in capacity and a 6.6% increase in RFTKs.

Special A380 flight to the Maldives from Etihad Airways

The Abu Dhabi based national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways marked the opening of the new runway at Velana International Airport in the Maldives by operating a special flight on one of its double-decker Airbus A380 aircraft to the island nation. The chosen aircraft was the one adorned in the special Year of Zayed livery, that turns heads wherever it flies. 

The new 3,400 metre-long and 60-metre-wide runway is the first in the Maldives capable of supporting an A380. The special Etihad operation was piloted by First Officer, Ali Ahuson, who is from The Maldives and was captured in a special video released by the airline.

The Etihad Airways A380 features a total capacity of 496 seats – up to two guests in The Residence, nine First Apartments, 70 Business Studios and 415 Economy Smart Seats.

The special Year of Zayed liveried flagship of the fleet will also operate a special rotation to Saudi Arabia on 23rd September to mark Saudi Arabia's National Day.  The A380 will be deployed on EY311 and EY312, between Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. The flight crew operating the aircraft will be both Saudi and UAE Nationals.


(Photos Etihad Airways)

United to base 787 Deamliners at Newark

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft will be put on at least six international routes heading to Europe mega US carrier United Airlines has said.

The airline advises that from summer next year it will base the 787s at its Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey hub to operate flights to various destinations in Europe. Although the airline hasn't publically said which variant of the 787 would be based at Newark, it is believed to be the -10.  United have configured the 787-10s with 318 seats in total, spread over the carriers Polaris business class, premium economy and economy and its boss has previous, stated the aircraft is ideal for its European routes.

In a report issued by Flight Global, the airline has communicated its Dreamliner placement to staff in  a memo, saying that the airline will deploy 160 Dreamliner rated pilots, including 55 captains and 105 first officers, at Newark from the end of March next year.

(Photo Boeing)

Jet Airways 737 turns back after crew allegedly forget to presurise the cabin

A Jet Airways Boeing 737, registration VT-JGS, operating flight 9W697 from Mumbai to Jaipur was forced to return to the airport after nearly 30 passengers started having ear and nose bleeds due to a pressure deficiency in the cabin.

According to financially troubled Jet Airways the aircraft had 166 passengers and 5 crew members on board at the time of the incident on Thursday. In a brief statement issued via social media, the airline claimed the aircraft turned back due to 'a loss of cabin pressure' and that the affected aircraft 'landed normally in Mumbai. All guests were deplaned safely and taken to the terminal. First aid was administered to few guests who complained of ear pain, bleeding nose etc.'

Please refer to our official statement: pic.twitter.com/oCC77WVvfI

— Jet Airways (@jetairways) September 20, 2018

Jet Airways, part-owned by Etihad Airways, said the flight crew had been taken off flying duties while an investigation is ongoing.