Air France is sponsoring the 48th Deauville American Film Festival, celebrating the diversity of American cinema, from major Hollywood blockbusters to independent productions. The company has been supporting this world-renowned festival since 2014 and promotes American cinema all year round on board its long-haul aircraft.
The best of Air France on display in Deauville
This year, festival-goers will be able to exclusively discover and try out the new Air France Business cabin on show at the Deauville International Centre, one of the festival’s key venues. The company is also organizing a competition with airline tickets up for grabs for the lucky winners.
Progressively deployed on board 12 Air France Boeing 777-300, this cabin will be available on flights from Paris to New York JFK starting autumn 2022. The new Business seat reclines to become a real lie-flat bed nearly 2 metres long. Each passenger has direct access to the central aisle and, for optimum privacy, a new sliding door allows passengers to create a totally private space, out of sight from the other passengers in the cabin. The seat features a wide 17.3-inch 4K High Definition anti-glare screen, a noise-reducing headset and Bluetooth connection. A real cinema in the sky!
The French national carrier, Air France has suspended two pilots after a physical fight between the two erupted on a flight between Geneva to Paris.
According to reports, a disagreement between the two pilots became so heated it came to physical blows as the pair operate an Airbus A320 flight in June. The exchange was so loud and aggressive that members of the cabin crew had to intervene and remain in the cockpit until the plane had landed safely.
This is the latest in a series of events that have led the French air investigation authorities to issue a report on how Air France had a relaxed attitude when it came to safety procedures.
The Paris-based Air France continues to integrate the latest-generation aircraft into its fleet with the addition of its 10th Airbus A220 plane, formally known as the Bombardier CSeries.
The tenth A220-300
A mini-milestone was reached with the arrival of its 10th Airbus A220-300, the latest jewel in its medium-haul fleet. The aircraft, with registration number F-HZUJ, left the Airbus assembly line in Mirabel (Quebec) to join Paris-Charles de Gaulle, where it will operate the company’s short and medium-haul flights. It operated its first commercial flight to Venice, today 5th July 2022.
The aircraft sports its new name “Auvers-sur-Oise” at the front of its fuselage, in reference to the town north of Paris which is internationally known for the landscape and impressionist painters Paul Cézanne, Camille Corot and Vincent Van Gogh. The Dutch painter spent his last days in Auvers-sur-Oise during a period of intense creativity.
Since 2019 and the delivery of its first Airbus A350, Air France has revived the tradition of naming its aircraft after French towns. Auvers-sur-Oise is the 96th town to be honoured on the company’s aircraft.
Between now and the end of 2025, 60 A220-300s will gradually replace some of Air France’s medium-haul aircraft. With up to 15 deliveries scheduled each year, this is the fastest fleet integration of an aircraft in the history of Air France.
An aircraft boasting an improved economic and environmental performance
The most innovative and efficient single-aisle aircraft in its category, the Airbus A220-300 is perfectly suited to Air France’s short and medium-haul network. It provides a cost reduction per seat of 10% compared to the Airbus A318 and A319 and stands out for its energy efficiency, consuming 20% less fuel than the aircraft it replaces and its CO2 emissions are also reduced by 20%. Its noise footprint is also 34% lower.
These characteristics will play a decisive role in reducing Air France’s environmental footprint and achieving its sustainable development objectives.
Within the framework of its “Air France ACT” programme, the company is targeting a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2030 compared to 2019. This target excludes so-called “offsetting” actions in order to exclusively take into account measures that strictly reduce direct and indirect emissions.
Heading for Europe
This summer, the Air France Airbus A220-300 serves Berlin, Hamburg and Munich (Germany), Milan-Linate, Milan-Malpensa, Bologna, Rome, Naples and Venice (Italy), Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid (Spain), Lisbon (Portugal), Copenhagen (Denmark), Athens (Greece), Helsinki (Finland), Vienna (Austria), Warsaw (Poland) and Stockholm (Sweden) on departure from the Air France hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle.
Optimal comfort on board
This aircraft has 148 seats, in a 3-2 seat configuration offering 80% of customers a window or aisle seat. The seat is the widest of the market for single-aisle aircraft. It is reclining and features an adjustable headrest, leather upholstery and an ergonomic seat cushion for enhanced comfort. A wide solid tray table, cup holder, a pouch for storing magazines and books, individual USB A and C ports and a tablet or smartphone holder integrated into the backrest complete the package.
The cabin, the most spacious and brightest in its category, is decorated in the Air France signature colours – shades of blue, a strong presence of white providing light and contrast, and a hint of red symbolising the airline’s excellence and know-how. The central aisle is particularly wide, allowing customers to move about at ease. The carpet revisits the traditional ornamental herringbone pattern, symbolizing the emblematic Haussmann-inspired world of Parisian apartments. Large panoramic windows provide natural light for the duration of the trip. Finally, the spacious baggage racks are easy to access.
At the 2022 OnBoard Hospitality Awards at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Air France received the award for the Best Comfort Kit for Children and Babies and the Bronze Award for the Best Travel Cabin Concept for the design of its Airbus A220.
Since February 2022, in all Air France long-haul cabins, young travellers aged 3 to 11 have been given a pretty “sorter” flight pouch in two colours: blue and light grey. With a postcard to colour in, a box of crayons, an activity book and a card game, this pouch contains a multitude of surprises to keep them entertained during their trip. This sorter is also perfect for storing your passport, drawings and souvenirs collected during your trip. In keeping with Air France’s eco-friendly approach, this pouch has been designed in FSC (sustainably managed forests) cardboard and comes unwrapped.
In addition, to ensure optimum well-being for families travelling with a baby (aged 0 to 2), Air France also offers a recyclable cardboard box in the long-haul La Première, Business and Premium Economy cabins containing a rabbit cuddly toy, Castéra certified organic thermal water and a honeycomb cotton pouch. Economy cabin customers also receive a recyclable cardboard box containing the rabbit cuddly toy.
Third place for the best cabin concept 2022
Unveiled in September 2021, the Airbus A220-300, the new generation aircraft dedicated to Air France’s short- and medium-haul network, has 148 seats in a 3-2 configuration enabling 80% of customers to enjoy a window or aisle seat. The seat is the widest on the market for a single-aisle aircraft. It is leather upholstered and features ergonomic seat foams for added comfort, with a reclining seat and adjustable headrest. It has symmetrical stitching and an embroidered grey thread martingale, evoking the idea of padded upholstery, synonymous with comfort. The accent, the company’s trademark symbol, is featured on the front and back walls of the aircraft. It is also embroidered on each seat, anchoring the cabin in the company’s universe. A large one-piece tray table, cup holder, seat pocket, individual USB A and C sockets and a tablet or smartphone holder integrated into the backrest complete the package.
The cabin, the most spacious and brightest in its category, is decorated in Air France’s signature colours: shades of blue, a strong presence of white providing light and contrast, and touches of red embodying the airline’s excellence and know-how. The carpet on the floor revisits the traditional ornamental herringbone pattern, symbolising the emblematic Parisian Haussmann apartments. It also plays a strong role in terms of signage by welcoming customers and providing perspective. Large panoramic windows provide natural light throughout the journey. From boarding to landing, 8 lighting moods dedicated to the aircraft boost the boarding and disembarkation phases as well as softening the lighting, favouring a tranquil atmosphere on board. The spacious baggage compartments make it easy to store hand luggage. The particularly wide central aisle makes it easy for passengers to move around.
*The OnBoard Hospitality Awards are judged by a panel of experts from the airline industry, as well as by the online voting of the website’s readers, who are also from the travel industry.
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At the 2022 APEX Passenger Choice Awards ceremony, Air France won the “Best Entertainment in Europe” award. This award recognizes the quality and diversity of the entertainment offer on board its long-haul flights.
In all its long-haul cabins, Air France offers 1,000 hours of entertainment on high definition 33,000 screens. The airline is gradually rolling out a new touch-sensitive graphic interface, accessible in 12 languages and allowing passengers to choose their programme easily. More than 350 films are available, including a large selection of French movies, as well as TV series, documentaries, music, podcasts, destination guides, an interactive map and an on-board camera to watch the take-off and landing from your seat. A specific well-being section also allows young and old to learn about meditation and seated yoga during the flight. There is also a tailor-made offer for children.
In 2021, Air France received the highest distinction - the Diamond Award - in the APEX health safety powered by simplifying ranking, which rewards the strictest measures implemented by airlines in the field of health and safety. Following a complete audit of the Air France Protect programme, which covers all the company’s health measures, the APEX award recognized Air France’s commitment to making the health and safety of its customers and staff a top priority.
The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) is a leading research and evaluation organisation in the field of customer travel experience. Its network includes the world’s leading airlines, airports, alliances, suppliers and associated companies committed to improving the air travel experience. The APEX Passenger Choice Awards recognise airlines for their in-flight products and services. Customers on more than one million flights on 600 airlines worldwide were given the opportunity to anonymously rate five sub-categories of travel: seat comfort, cabin service, food and drink, entertainment and Wi-Fi via an app.
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To mark its 30th anniversary, the Air France Foundation welcomed fifteen sick children supported by the association L’Envol. The children were invited with their families to discover the behind-the-scenes activities of Air France at Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport, and to meet French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, one of the Foundation’s administrators.
After a dedicated boarding at terminal 2F, the group boarded an Airbus A350, the latest generation long-haul aircraft which is the new jewel in the Air France fleet and embodies its commitment to sustainable development. The programme included a tour of the aircraft, followed by a meeting with Air France staff who contribute to the airline’s hub operations every day. Everyone was able to talk to a check-in agent, a ramp agent, pilots, a flight attendant, a mechanic or a Servair chef (Air France’s catering service provider), to discover their respective worlds and careers.
The highlight of the afternoon was the opportunity for the children to meet Thomas Pesquet and share a snack. The astronaut talked about his career as an Air France pilot, joining the European Space Agency, and his missions on board and then at the controls of the International Space Station.
This day of sharing and discovery shed new light on air and space careers for these children. While it may have given rise to new vocations, it was also an opportunity for the Air France Foundation to renew its commitment to children, allowing them to forget their illness for a day.
THE AIR FRANCE FOUNDATION
Set up in 1992, the Air France Foundation studies, selects and finances educational projects for children who are ill, disabled or in great difficulty in the countries where Air France operates. Because education changes the world, the Foundation has developed links with international associations, based on the conviction that access to schooling, training, leisure activities, culture and the environment is the best way to tackle the great journey of life.
Over the past 30 years, the Air France Foundation has facilitated the implementation of 1,568 projects, mostly sponsored by Air France employees.
L’ENVOL is a non-profit association which organises programmes for sick young people aged 6 to 25 and their families. For 25 years, it has helped them find strength and confidence in themselves to enjoy life to the full during or after their illness and to never feel alone. L’ENVOL provides free support to more than 4,000 young people every year, organising special trips, hospital workshops, recreational outings and activity kits.
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Air France has announced it is working on the design of a completely new La Première cabin as the airline seeks to expand and enhance its premium offerings.
Now in the design phase, the new concept will be unveiled during the 2023/2024 winter season. The future cabin will be the longest on the market and will offer up to three modular configurations that can be fully privatized for an even more exceptional journey: a seat, a sofa and a fully flatbed. The new cabin will equip a larger number of aircraft than at present.
"La Première represents the highest level of French excellence and is an intrinsic part of Air France’s DNA. Even at the height of the Covid crisis, we could see the attractiveness of such an offer for our customers, particularly on the North Atlantic route, where load factors in the La Première cabin are currently higher than they were back in 2019. We look forward to unveiling this new cabin, which is set to meet the highest global standards," said Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM.
This large-scale project is part of Air France's strategy to move upmarket, which also covers fleet renewal, lounge renovation and the development of a more sustainable catering offer, signed by Michelin-starred chefs in the airline’s Business and La Première cabins.
Introduced in 2014, Air France's La Première suites are currently available onboard select Boeing 777-300s serving top destinations in North America, South America, Africa and the Middle East.
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.
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As part of its contribution to meeting the objectives of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below +2°C, the aviation industry must step up its environmental transition. For this reason, Air France is launching an “Air France ACT” programme setting out the airline’s new CO2 emissions reduction strategy.
This strategy is based on 3 priorities:
reduce in priority the direct emissions generated by Air France operations,
reduce indirect emissions, generated upstream and downstream of the company’s activities,
and in addition, support projects that absorb CO2 from the atmosphere
“Air France ACT” embodies the transparent, realistic and science-based approach adopted by the company to ensure its environmental transition through concrete and measurable actions.
Decarbonising aviation will be difficult and will take time. This process relies on close cooperation between the different stakeholders: aircraft manufacturers, engine manufacturers, fuel suppliers, airports, air traffic control, public authorities, research institutes and academia.
30% less CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2030 compared to 2019, i.e., 12% less emissions in absolute terms
The new decarbonisation trajectory targets a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2030 compared to 2019. This objective excludes so-called “offsetting” actions to consider measures that exclusively reduce direct and indirect emissions. It corresponds to a 12% reduction in the company’s total emissions between 2019 and 2030, in line with expected changes in activity, after a 6% reduction achieved between 2005 and 2019.
This trajectory is based on a scientific assessment method developed by the independent reference organisation SBTi (Science-Based Target initiative), to whom it was submitted. Founded by the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project), the United Nations Global Compact and the World Wildlife Fund, SBTi has set CO2 emission reduction targets for the air transport sector, compatible with the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below +2°C.
Air France-KLM has finalised its order with Airbus for four new generation A350F freighters, following the earlier commitment announced in December 2021. The freighters are destined to increase Air France’s cargo capacity with the most efficient and sustainable cargo aircraft available in the market.
The A350F is based on the world's most modern long-range leader, the A350. The aircraft will feature a large main deck cargo door and a fuselage length optimised for cargo operations. Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials resulting in a 30 tonnes lighter take-off weight, which together with efficient Rolls-Royce engines generate an advantage of at least 20% lower fuel burn and CO2 over its current closest competitor. With a 109 tonnes payload capability (+3t payload / 11% more volume than its competition), the A350F serves all cargo markets (Express, general cargo, special cargo…) and is in the large freighter category the only new generation freighter aircraft ready for the enhanced ICAO CO₂ emissions standards.
“Airlines now have a choice, and we salute Air France joining those going for the A350F’s step-change in efficiency and sustainability for the cargo operations of the future. We are gratified by the wave of early adopters who, like Air France, see the economics and environmental signature of the A350s as standing out versus alternatives, past, existing and future. Merci Air France.” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.
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The A350F offers unbeatable efficiency and sustainability in terms of fuel burn, CO2 emissions and economics, and it will be the first new freighter to meet the latest ICAO CO2 requirements.
The A350F offers nose-to-tail innovation with advanced materials (including carbon fibre and titanium) for reduced maintenance and the highest operational availability in its class.
The A350F offers superior economics due to the best combination of payload, volumetric capacity and range.
The A350F can be seamlessly integrated into airline fleets, having spares and tooling commonality with the A350 passenger aircraft for airframe and engines, as well as “same type rating” for flight crews and ground technicians.
The A350F is the future-proof choice for the large widebody freighter market.
The A350F is much lighter and less maintenance-intensive than its competitors, largely thanks to its structure which comprises over 70% advanced materials such as composites, titanium and modern aluminium alloys. Notably, the wings, the centre wing box and also the fuselage panels are manufactured mostly with composites. These materials choices result in a lighter, stiffer, stronger, more capable and cost-efficient aircraft, while increasing resistance to corrosion and fatigue for reduced maintenance requirements. In fact, Airbus calculates that the A350F will provide its customers around 65 more revenue days due to less maintenance downtime versus the proposed 777-8F over 16 years, thanks to the A350F’s clean-sheet advanced materials and well-integrated systems. Moreover, these predictions are realistic given the proven track record of the A350-900 and -1000 in service today which are delivering more operational availability for extra revenue for operators.
On top of the low fuel consumption which already contributes to major savings, the A350F’s unbeatable economics are also built on the three tonnes additional structural payload (for a total of 109 tonnes) compared with the 777F. Moreover, to do the same job as its current competitor, the A350F will weigh around 28 tonnes less at take-off due to its much lighter composite fuselage & centre wing box, while burning around 20% less trip fuel. This also means that operators of Airbus’ new A350F freighter will benefit from lower landing and navigation charges.
As for the proposed 777-8F, while the current estimates suggests that it could offer six percent more volume and seven tonnes more payload than the A350F, this would come with a hefty burden of at least 32 additional metric tonnes (32,000kgs) of take-off weight (Airbus’ initial estimate) – which increases fuel burn, CO2 emissions and airport charges.
The A350F’s higher running-load capability over more of the floor will provide superior pallet loading flexibility and C-of-G management. In particular, its operators will be able to utilise the full 6.8 tonnes maximum certified limit for a 96x125 pallet for 20 of the 30 pallet positions, whereas the 777F only offers six pallet positions with a 6.8t pallet capability – with all the rest being limited to a maximum loading of only around four tonnes where the floor loading is more limited.
Mention should also be made of the A350F’s composite main-deck-cargo door (MDCD). With a clear opening measuring 3.72m by 3.16m, it allows loading on board of all new large turbofan engines. Meanwhile, the flexibility of the main-deck cargo-loading system (CLS) inside the aircraft provides for up to six positions for these engines to be directly latched, instead of using straps. The use of latches not only minimises turnaround time, but also frees-up space adjacently for two extra pallets.
Another key requirement when defining the A350F was the capability to fly from Hong Kong to Anchorage – an industry benchmark mission as it is the most often flown cargo route in the world – at full payload. Accordingly, the A350F with 109t max structural payload can carry it over 4,700nm to enable this route, and do so with the lowest possible fuel burn and proportionally reduced CO2 emissions.
French investigators from the Bureau d’Enquetes et d’Analyses - BEA has launched an investigation into what it has termed a "Serious Incident" involving an Air France Boeing 777 on approach to Paris Charles de Gaulle airport on Tuesday.
The jet was operating a flight from New York's JFK airport and suffered serious control problems on its approach to its home base of Paris. as it on landing in Paris. According to reports the pilot aborted the first landing attempt and did a go-around.
In a statement, Air France said the flight crew “aborted their landing sequence and performed a go-around.
The go-around is defined by the authorities, aircraft manufacturers and Air France as a normal procedure. The crews are trained and regularly instructed in these procedures, which are used by all airlines to guarantee the safety of flights and passengers. - The crew landed the aircraft normally after a second approach.”
Unconfirmed and unverified audio was posted on various websites including AIRLIVE.net which seems to indicate the pilots of the plane were struggling to keep control of the aircraft.
The BEA has said the flight data and cockpit voice recorders, otherwise known as the aircraft's 'black boxes' are being reviewed to determine the cause of the loss of control. The BEA cited “instability of flight controls” in the final stages of the flight, as well as “hard controls” and “flight-path oscillations.” issues hampered normal operation.
From March to June 2022, Air France is teaming up with three top French chefs to create the dishes offered on board its flights. On the airline’s medium-haul network, in the Business cabin, François Adamski will be unveiling delicious and original recipes. On long-haul flights, Anne-Sophie Pic has signed the La Première menu and Régis Marcon is offering new menus in the Business cabin. These are all great names in the world of French haute cuisine, which is being showcased around the world.
Culinary delights by François Adamski in the medium-haul Business cabin
Servair corporate chef François Adamski, Bocuse d’Or and Meilleur Ouvrier de France, is offering Business customers on the Air France medium-haul network tasty new dishes this month. For the occasion, the chef is revealing the recipe for his “poached egg at 30,000 feet”.
Sautéed prawns, slices of Charolais beef and salmon with basil complete this new cycle of dishes on offer over the next few months, on flights to and from Paris. Attached to traditional French produce and to sustainable food sources, François Adamski has selected products from France to create healthy and well-balanced menus with a focus on well-being and pleasure.
On long-haul flights, Michelin-starred menus by Anne-Sophie Pic and Régis Marcon
Air France has also teamed up with Anne-Sophie Pic and Régis Marcon to sign the menus for the La Première and Business long-haul cabins on departure from Paris. With a selection of vegetarian, red or white meat or fish dishes, the French Michelin-starred chefs have come up with refined dishes for the airline’s customers to discover progressively this season.
Triple Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic has created a starter and six main dishes for the airline’s most exclusive cabin. Rolled and snacked sole “à la plancha”, smoked goat’s cheese ravioli and coffee-smoked beef fillet are just some of her dishes to be enjoyed on board.
The triple Michelin-starred chef Régis Marcon has come up with 8 exceptional dishes to be enjoyed in the Business cabin, such as duck lasagne with blackcurrant sauce, blanquette of salmon and Pollock in sherry jus.
Jetcraft's commercial aircraft division has acquired 14 Bombardier CRJ1000 airliners from HOP!, the regional arm of Air France at bargain prices. Deliveries will happen throughout this year and be completed by December
Raphaël Haddad, President of Jetcraft Commercial, says: “This is a significant acquisition for Jetcraft Commercial and I’m proud that three of these aircraft are ready to be placed. There is high demand for the remaining jets, emphasising the need within commercial aviation for aircraft capable of regional missions.”
Jetcraft Commercial launched in 2015, capitalizing on Jetcraft’s existing international presence and experience to offer clients an agile partner within the commercial aircraft sales and leasing community. With a diverse inventory, featuring aircraft from Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, De Havilland Canada, Embraer and others, Jetcraft Commercial has a proven record of procuring and placing commercial aircraft worldwide.
Air France named Best airline in Europe, Western Europe and France at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2021
10th best airline in the world and only European airline in the top 10
COVID Airline Excellence Award
Well done Air France...... The Paris based carrier received four awards from Skytrax, the international aviation rating agency, as part of the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2021.
Air France was named Best airline in the Europe, Western Europe and France rankings.
It also climbed to 10th place in the global ranking for the first time, gaining 13 places compared to 2019. Air France is the only European airline in the Top 10 of this ranking, which includes more than 350 airlines and is based on the surveys of more than 13 million passengers of over 100 nationalities.
Skytrax also recognized the airline's commitment to health security by awarding Air France the COVID Airline Excellence Award. This is the third time that Air France has received a distinction from Skytrax for all the measures implemented since the beginning of the COVID crisis, with first four and then five stars (the maximum rating) obtained in the Skytrax COVID Safety Rating for its Air France Protect program.
These distinctions reward the efforts and commitment of Air France and its teams to improve the customer experience in an exceptional context.
"It is an honour and a great pride for Air France to receive these awards. They testify to the confidence of our customers and recognize the continued commitment of our teams since the beginning of the COVID crisis. With the arrival of new aircraft, the Airbus A350s and A220s, as well as the opening of new lounges in France, such as the one in terminal 2F at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, or across our network with the one in Montreal, we are continuing to invest in reinventing the Air France travel experience, to the benefit of our customers. We also continue our efforts to reinforce health safety and to simplify the travel experience during the COVID period, for example with our acclaimed "Ready To Fly" service," said Anne Rigail, CEO of Air France.
Intelsat, the operator of the world's largest integrated satellite and terrestrial network, has been selected by Air France to install its 2Ku high-speed, satellite-based inflight connectivity solution on 60 new Air France A220-300 aircraft. With deliveries commencing in 2021, the aircraft will fly to short and medium-haul destinations of the Air France network.
Intelsat's solution is the industry's leading inflight connectivity (IFC) because it simply delivers the highest throughput and best reliability to aircraft and devices globally, providing a superior connected passenger experience and exceptional Net Promoter Scores (NPS).
"We are honored to partner with Air France and delight their passengers with a superior inflight connectivity experience on Airbus' state-of-the-art A220 aircraft," said John Wade, president, Commercial Aviation of Intelsat. "This award expands the total Intelsat fleet at Air France to 143 aircraft, including widebody B777s and A330s. Air France is the third airline partner to select Intelsat on the A220 airframe and our first 2Ku line-fit European airline partner."
Air France has received its first A220-300 from an order for 60 aircraft of the type, the largest A220 order from a European carrier. The aircraft was delivered from Airbus’ final assembly line in Mirabel, Quebec, Canada and officially unveiled to the public during a ceremony held at Paris Charles-De-Gaulle Airport.
The A220 is the most efficient and flexible aircraft in the 100 to 150 seat market segment today. The renewal of the Air France single-aisle fleet with this latest generation aircraft will increase efficiency along with customer comfort and support Air France to meet its environmental goals and sustainability objectives.
The first Air France A220-300 will be operated on its medium-haul network from the 2021 winter season. Currently, Air France operates a fleet of 136 Airbus aircraft. Air France is also renewing its long-haul fleet, and has already taken delivery of 11 A350s out of an order of 38.
The Air France A220-300 cabin is configured in a single-class layout to comfortably welcome 148 passengers. Offering superior single-aisle comfort, with the widest leather seats, largest windows and up to 20% more overhead stowage space per passenger, the Air France A220 also features full WiFi connectivity throughout the cabin and two USB sockets at each passenger seat.
The A220 is the only aircraft purpose-built for the 100-150 seat market and brings together state-of-the-art aerodynamics, advanced materials and Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation geared turbofan engines. With a range of up to 3,450 nm (6,390 km), the A220 gives airlines added operational flexibility. The A220 delivers up to 25% lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft, and 50% lower NOx emissions than industry standards. In addition, the aircraft noise footprint is reduced by 50% compared to previous generation aircraft - making the A220 a good neighbour around airports.
As of the end of August, over 170 A220s have been delivered to 11 operators worldwide.
On board the aircraft, up to eight rows of seats can be dedicated to customers travelling in the Business cabin. Located at the front of the aircraft, passengers in this cabin enjoy priority boarding and disembarkation. For greater comfort, privacy and space, a movable curtain isolates the cabin, where each customer has a seat left free beside them.
The catering offer is adapted to the flight time and depends on the time of departure. In the Business cabin, each customer is served a generous breakfast or meal with warm bread. Champagne, wine and a
wide selection of hot and cold drinks are also available. In the Economy cabin, biscuits or sandwiches including a vegetarian choice are available.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are also offered. In all cabins, passengers on the Airbus A220-300 enjoy Air France Connect, the airline’s inflight Wi-Fi service. Thanks to the aircraft’s Wi-Fi network, which is available throughout the flight, customers can easily stay connected from their personal devices. The Air France Connect portal offers them three passes according to their needs, including one that is free of charge and allows them to send and receive messages during the flight.
Customers can also find all the information related to their flight and their connections. In addition, thanks to the Air France Play app, customers can download a wide selection of newspapers and magazines onto their smartphone or tablet up to 30 hours before departure.
As of 31 October 2021, Air France customers will be able to enjoy the comfort on board the Airbus A220-300 on flights to Berlin (Germany), Barcelona and Madrid (Spain), Milan-Linate and Venice (Italy). Throughout the 2021-2022 winter season, the aircraft will gradually extend its network to include Bologna and Rome (Italy), Lisbon (Portugal) and Copenhagen (Denmark).
A220 Family aircraft have been specifically designed for the 100-150 seat market, resulting in efficiencies inherent in purpose-built aircraft, and an unmatched environmental scorecard. What’s more, the A220-100 and A220-300 have over 99% parts commonality, as well as the same pilot type rating, facilitating the family’s addition to any airline’s fleet.
A220 Family jetliners were designed using state-of-the-art computational aerodynamics combined with 21st century supercomputing capability; the result is a family of aircraft with optimal aerodynamic performance and efficiency. Powering the aircraft are twin Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1500G geared turbofan engines specifically designed for the A220. With a bypass ratio of 12:1 – one of the highest of any turbofan engine in the world – the aircraft features 25% lower fuel burn per seat than previous generation aircraft, half the noise footprint, and decreased emissions.
Together, the A220 Family represents the most efficient aircraft in the skies in their class, with low operating costs and low noise levels. This makes the A220 Family aircraft ideal for urban operations and noise-sensitive airports.
A220 Family aircraft are designed to deliver the feel of a wide-body jetliner in a single-aisle aircraft. The cabin provides space where it matters the most, leading to an unparalleled passenger experience.
Overhead bins, with the largest stowage capacity in their class, are easily accessible. The extra-large windows with more than one at each row, are positioned high on the cabin sidewall to provide an optimal viewing angle and an abundance of natural light. Wide seats –18 inches or more – provide a generous personal space without compromise, and the newly designed engines contribute to the quietest cabin in its class.
The A220 lower deck cargo hold boasts a wide flat floor and vertical sidewalls for efficient stacking, which result in a significantly higher usable volume than the competition.
On 19 August 2021, Air France unveiled its brand new iconic lounge located in terminal 2F at Paris-Charles de Gaulle. An invitation to celebrate the best of French-style travel, upon arrival at the airport or during transit.
Dedicated to Business customers and Flying Blue Elite Plus members travelling on Air France's short- and medium-haul Schengen network, this lounge is one of the airline's largest, with a surface area of 3,000 sq. m. and 570 seats spread over two levels.
In collaboration with teams from Air France and the Group ADP, the entire space and most of the furniture were designed by the Jouin Manku agency, founded by Canadian architect Sanjit Manku and French designer Patrick Jouin. The idea of levitation and grace guided the creative duo, to offer the airline's customers a real moment suspended in time and enjoy total relaxation before they board.
Following Charlotte Perriand, Andrée Putman and more recently Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance and Mathieu Lehanneur, Air France's choice to associate itself with this prestigious designer once again illustrates its tradition of working with the best architects and designers of its time, to continue telling its legendary story.
A haven of peace and serenity at the heart of the airport, the lounge, with its curved features and relaxing vibe, is open, airy and uncomplicated at first glance. There is something for everyone, depending on the amount of time customers have before boarding, to rest, freshen up, work or enjoy something to eat and drink.
Air France officially opened its fully redesigned lounge at Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. In association with the Plaza Premium Group, the airline now offers its Business and Flying Blue Elite Plus customers a vast, elegant and welcoming space, promoting French-style hospitality to enhance their travel experience.
Located in the international section of the terminal, this 490 sq. m. lounge has a seating capacity of 149. Bathed in light, it boasts a large bay window offering a view of the runways, the airline’s aircraft and one of the slopes of Mount Royal overlooking the city of Montreal.
Air France worked together with Canadian companies to create most of the furniture and lighting. The Air France colours - shades of blue, greys and whites, with touches of red – are dominant, as well as the Accent, the Air France brand symbol, and the winged seahorse, the company’s historical symbol, reminding everyone of its rich history. Champagne lacquered metal screens provide structure to the lounge.
At the entrance, customers are welcomed by Plaza Premium Group agents. Automatic eligibility kiosks are also available for greater fluidity.
They then enter the main lounge area, where seats and large sofas are available for everyone to relax, eat or work in comfort. A shared work area is also available. Free Wi-Fi and USB sockets are also available to all customers.
Flying Blue Ultimate customers have access to a more private space, with large sofas and seats to feel at home.
An area allows customers to shower or freshen up before their flight. Finally, for those looking for travel inspiration, an ’Air France Travel Guide’ screen gives customers ideas for their upcoming trips.
Catering at the heart of the lounge
At the heart of the lounge, a vast area offers catering centred around French cuisine. A self-service buffet offers hot and cold, savoury and sweet dishes to meet everyone’s expectations throughout the day. The company also offers vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. A large bar also offers a wide selection of French wines and champagnes.
This fall, the lounge will introduce a new dedicated catering service in the cozy atmosphere of the ‘Night Service’ area. This offer anticipates the desire for rest of Business customers travelling from Montreal to Paris on the last evening flight. They can choose to enjoy in the lounge a real French-style gourmet meal, identical to that served on board, with in-seat restaurant-style service. Starters, hot dishes, cheese, desserts and a wine and champagne list will be offered to these eligible clients. During the flight, they can then enjoy their night on board to the full. If they make the request, their meal tray will not be loaded on the flight to limit food waste. Customers who wish to do so will still be able to enjoy another meal on board.
In an eco-responsible approach, Air France favours local and seasonal products for its catering offer. In addition, to limit the consumption of single-use plastic bottles, the airline provides its customers with water fountains, as well as plastic-free cutlery. It also pays particular attention to limiting food waste, selective waste sorting and recycling of catering utensils. In the showers, the facilities are also eco-responsible.
The transformation of the lounge also meant that the old furniture had to be disposed of. Some items were donated to a charity. Others were offered at auction to Air France-KLM staff in Montreal. All proceeds went to the Montreal-based Le Chaînon Foundation, which helps women in need.
The Air France lounge in Montreal is open daily from 2pm to 10pm for Air France and KLM customers. Access is free for Business and Flying Blue Elite Plus customers, and customers travelling in Economy or Premium Economy can also purchase lounge access subject to availability.
Air France Protect, the promise of a safe trip
As part of its “Air France Protect” programme, the airline ensures the strictest health measures at every stage of the trip. It is compulsory to wear a surgical mask in the lounge. Hand sanitizer is also available throughout the lounge. The lounge will open with half the possible capacity, to ensure the necessary distancing for all. Finally, customers are invited to download the Air France Play app before their departure to enjoy a wide choice of newspapers and magazines.
This summer, Air France is operating up to 17 weekly flights between Montreal-Trudeau and Paris-Charles de Gaulle, operated by Airbus A350 and Boeing 777. This flight schedule is subject to change and has been drawn up taking into account the current health measures. Before travelling, Air France advises its customers to check the travel restrictions and the documents required on arrival at their destination.
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