New year, new career? It could take off at East Midlands Airport

Anyone looking for a new career to take off in the New Year should put Wednesday 17 January in their diary to attend a Jobs Fair at East Midlands Airport (EMA).

The event will take place in the check-in hall from 10am to 2pm and representatives from a wide range of businesses operating on the site will be available to speak to. These include Manchester Airports Group (MAG) which owns and runs the airport itself, as well as major cargo operator DHL, baggage handling firm Swissport, food service company HMS Host, one of EMA’s main airlines Jet2 and World Duty Free.

The Jobs Fair will provide a great opportunity for jobseekers to engage directly with employers and find out what they are looking for from applicants to boost their chances of securing employment at the airport. Free parking and a free shuttle bus to the venue will be provided.

MAG’s Group Head of Education, Skills & Employment, Marcella M’Rabety, said: “Whether you want to land a career at East Midlands Airport or are already working in the industry and looking for a change, our Jobs Fair is the perfect event for you!

UK aviation shaping its own destiny as airport slot reform consultation launched

With a new reform, the airport slot allocation system can have a tailored approach that works best for businesses and passengers across the UK.

For the first time since the 1990s, the UK aviation industry will have a say on its airport slot regime as the Department for Transport launches the airport slot allocation system reform consultation today (4 December 2023) to boost the growing success of the sector.

Like parking spaces for planes, slots are used to manage capacity at the busiest airports across the country. A slot gives permission for an airline to use the full range of airport infrastructure – from runways to terminals – to operate on a specific date and time.

Following its departure from the EU, UK aviation is no longer shackled by an outdated slot regime and can now take a more tailored approach that works best for businesses and passengers across the country.

The reforms being consulted on will include proposals for new ways to manage slot capacity and how they are allocated to airlines.

This includes limiting slot leasing, so instead of larger airlines monopolising slots, they can be allocated to other competitors if not used after a set period – allowing for newer or smaller airlines with possible cheaper prices to receive favourable slots and make the process more dynamic. The reforms also aim to give more powers to respond to crises, making the industry more resilient and efficient in times of uncertainty.

The current system, based on EU regulations, requires the slot allocation process to be consistent across Europe but while the sector has developed and grown in the last 20 years, the rules of the slot system have remained unchanged. Now, with our new freedoms, we can ensure that the system takes the UK’s specific needs into account.

Dundee to Heathrow Flights Continue

Direct flights between Dundee Airport and London Heathrow will continue for the next two years, it has been confirmed.

The route has been supported again by a Public Service Obligation (PSO), which protects routes that connect the UK, encourage economic growth and boost tourism

The new PSO is backed by UK Government, Scottish Government and Dundee City Council funding, as well as a contribution from the Tay Cities Region Deal.

Airline Loganair has been chosen by Dundee City Council to run the flights along the route.

The Department for Transport has allocated half of the PSO funding with the specific aim of enabling residents in Dundee to conveniently make round trips to London in a single day. Moreover, Heathrow Airport offers seamless connections to numerous international destinations, significantly enhancing Dundee's connectivity.

Dundee City Council Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Convener Councillor Steven Rome said: “The move of flights from London City to Heathrow earlier this year has improved our city’s connectivity and we anticipate further growth in passenger numbers with the award of this latest PSO.

“We recognise the ongoing value that the airport provides for our city’s economy and for local businesses and people, and also by supporting local jobs. The link to and from Heathrow will also increase international passenger numbers by connecting to BA's global route network.

“The city council continues to work in partnership so that we can extend this arrangement at Dundee Airport for the benefit of the city and wider region.

Alison Henderson, CEO of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am delighted at the continuation of this link between Dundee and London Heathrow which is very important for our city’s business, culture and tourism.    

Hamburg Airport joins the international “Hydrogen Hub at Airport” network

Hamburg Airport has become the first German and the 12th member of the international "Hydrogen Hub at Airport" network, to promote the further expansion of hydrogen infrastructure in aviation. The network’s membership already includes members from the airports, airlines and energy sectors in 11 countries including France, the USA, UK, Singapore, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand. The aim of the international network is to research, develop and expand the infrastructure for the use of hydrogen.

"We welcome Hamburg Airport as the latest “Hydrogen Hub at Airport” member. Hamburg Airport’s expertise in Hydrogen will be an invaluable asset in our ZEROe Ecosystem journey to build a future where aviation will be powered by decarbonised hydrogen. The journey to prepare airport infrastructure to support hydrogen and low carbon aviation begins on the ground with these partnerships. The growing involvement of airports worldwide, including Hamburg Airport, in Airbus' “Hydrogen Hub at Airport”  concept will be key to deploying hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2035," said Karine Guénan, Vice President ZEROe Hydrogen Ecosystem.

The use of hydrogen to power future aircraft should not only significantly reduce emissions in the air, but also contribute to the decarbonisation of aviation infrastructure on the ground. In 2020, Airbus launched the Hydrogen Hub at Airports programme to drive research into infrastructure requirements and low-carbon airport operations across the value chain. The cooperation in Hamburg includes Linde as well, a leading global industrial gases and engineering company.

“We are thrilled that Hamburg Airport is working together on equal terms with such international hubs as Paris - Charles de Gaulle and Changi Airport in Singapore as we make these decisive preparations for an energy transition in air travel,” said Michael Eggenschwiler, CEO of Hamburg Airport, at the signing of the cooperation agreement. “I am very proud of that fact, and also of the pioneering work of our staff, who have been pouring their hearts into laying the foundations for this work over many years.”

Airbus presented its ZEROe concept aircraft in 2020 and the development of the corresponding technology building blocks is now being driven forward in a global R&T network focussing on the development of hydrogen technology for future commercial aircraft.

Lithuanian airports to get solar parks......

Development of solar parks will start at Lithuanian airports: public tender for design services is announced

Lithuanian Airports has announced a public tender for design services for solar parks. Land areas totaling about 7 hectares are to be allocated for solar power plants at the airfields of Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga airports. The energy produced by the own solar power plants could meet about one third of the total energy demand of Lithuanian airports. Energy storage parks are also planned to be built nearby.

"Airfield sites suitable for the installation of solar power plants offer the opportunity to transform airports from energy consumers into electricity producers. At the same time, we will gain a tool to better manage energy costs - to reduce costs when the demand for electricity increases with the electrification of airport transport fleets," says Arnas Dūmanas, Director of the Lithuanian Airports Development Department. He emphasizes that renewable energy projects are in line with the Lithuanian Airports' sustainability strategy and NET ZERO's goal of becoming an environmentally neutral organization by 2030.

It is planned to install a 4.5 MW solar park - plant at Vilnius Airport, 1.2 MW at Kaunas Airport and 0.4 MW at Palanga Airport. The corresponding areas will be allocated on the territories of the airfields: about 5 hectares in Vilnius, 1.5 hectares in Kaunas and 0.5 hectares in Palanga.

The winner of the public tender will have to develop a solar power plant with a total capacity of 6.1 MW, which would meet about one third (about 34%) of the total electricity demand of Lithuanian airports. Palanga Airport would generate the largest share of its electricity from the sun - around 40%. Solar power plants at Vilnius and Kaunas airports would generate 33-34% of the annual energy, which could be used immediately or stored in dedicated energy storage systems (storage units).

United Airlines and Houston Airport System invest more than $2Billion in Terminal B transformation

IAH Terminal B Transformation Program to accommodate a projected 36 million future passengers with brand new gates and amenities for travellers

United Airlines and the Houston Airport System (HAS) announced a landmark investment in United's hub at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with United's Terminal B Transformation Program. This ambitious project is set to redefine the air travel experience and cater to the future needs of an estimated 36 million passengers. The program encompasses the construction of 40 new gates for both domestic and international travel, ensuring a cutting-edge experience for travellers.

IAH Terminal B Transformation Program to accommodate a projected 36 million future passengers with brand new gates and amenities for travellers

"This investment further supports United's position as Houston's carrier of choice," said Phil Griffith, United's Vice President of IAH. "On behalf of our more than 14,000 employees who call Houston home, I can't wait to continue doing all we can to serve our customers flying to, from and through our hub on more than 400 flights daily."  

Travellers will find new conveniences and amenities throughout their airport experience. The Terminal B transformation includes expanding curbside and roadway capacity, along with expanding the ticketing lobby, offering passengers convenience through dynamic signage, intuitive wayfinding systems and a ground-level check-in area. The third floor is expected to house a streamlined security processing area.

Once through security, the New Terminal B North expansion comprises two new passenger concourses, replacing the 1969-era Flight Stations. The Terminal B North Concourse, spanning approximately 765,000 square feet over three levels, will house 22 narrow-body gates. Additionally, a large United ClubSM at the mezzanine level will offer unobstructed airfield views, set to become the largest club in the United system.

The Terminal B South Concourse project involves converting 30 gates that currently house smaller, 50-seat regional jets to accommodate larger, two-class regional jets . Unlike in the current terminal, all flights will be boarded via jet bridge.   

The concourse design caters to a multitude of travelers and is expected to feature amenities like a sensory room, a multimedia interactive United-branded "park," and comfort zones for passengers with disabilities that provides a quiet space for those needing to decompress between TSA and boarding processing. The project will also include two major concessions hubs, offering 115,000 square feet of state-of-the-art food and retail space including unique dining and shopping experiences.

The baggage claim hall will be expanded, and a new baggage handling system, equipped with advanced baggage tracking technology, will support increased capacity.

"The expansion of Terminal B underscores the shared commitment between United Airlines and the City of Houston to enhance Bush Airport and Houston's economy," said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. "This redevelopment program will bring nearly 3,000 new jobs to Houston. The bigger and more modern domestic terminal will amplify Houston's reputation as a premier destination and cultivate even more opportunities for future economic development. As a global city and a sought-after destination, larger and more efficient aircraft flying to Houston will improve the passenger experience and support our promise to advance sustainable practices."

United Airlines expects to invest more than $1.9 billion in the Terminal B Transformation Program and the City of Houston expects to fund $624 million in enabling projects required for the program. On Wednesday, November 15, 2023, Houston City Council approved and authorized a Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Houston and United Airlines. The City of Houston intends to submit, for City Council approval, requests for the appropriation of funds in several tranches throughout the project. 

The enabling project costs assumed by the City of Houston are fully recoverable over time and after the project's completion through rates and charges payable by airlines and other operators at IAH with whom the City has agreements. The funding to be provided by the Houston Airport System enterprise fund is consistent with federal law as an appropriate use of airport revenues.

"The redevelopment of one of Bush Airport's oldest terminals is a symbol of the crucial role air service plays in the economic vitality of Houston. Our long-standing partnership with United Airlines has led to this historic growth and revitalization opportunity for Houston Airports," said Mario Diaz, Aviation Director for the City of Houston. "As we make significant progress on the new international terminal at Bush Airport to meet the growing demand for international travel, United Airlines' Terminal B transformation will help Houston meet the growing demand for domestic travel. Today's decision underscores our strategy to gain passengers' trust by providing safe, clean, world-class facilities with outstanding 5-star customer service."

Construction and design

The IAH Terminal B Transformation Program, spearheaded by the seasoned Program Management team at AvAirPros and STV, comprises three pivotal components:

The Terminal B arrival and departure hall is designed by Page, a full-service design, architecture and engineering firm based in Houston; and Grimshaw Architects, a London-based architectural firm and will be constructed by Clark Construction.

The Terminal B Concourses designed by PGAL, a Houston-based international design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and engineering, and to be built by Manhattan Construction, a Houston-based company.  

The Baggage Handling System, will be designed by Siemens', employing their expertise in design and construction of these highly technical systems.

"At Clark Construction, we pride ourselves on building projects that matter to the communities where we live and work," said Cara Lanigan, CEO of Clark Construction's Central Group. "We're humbled by the opportunity to work alongside United Airlines and the entire IAH Terminal B Transformation Team to enhance the traveller experience while creating job opportunities for the local Houston community." 

Delta completes Concourse A expansion at Salt Lake City International Airport

Delta’s footprint at Salt Lake City International Airport continues to grow with the opening of 13 new gates on Concourse A, finishing off the gleaming 900,000-square-foot facility that first welcomed customers in September 2020. All flights operating from Concourse A will now board and deplane via jet bridges, eliminating bus operations to remote hardstands. 

Delta unveils the completion of its Concourse A expansion at Salt Lake City International Airport.

“The completion of Concourse A comes just ahead of what we anticipate will be a busy holiday and ski travel season,” said Adam Ryan, Managing Director of Delta’s SLC Operations. “It’s a privilege for the 5,400 Delta employees here in Salt Lake City to share this state-of-the-art facility with our customers as we continue to provide them with the elevated experience they have come to expect from Delta.” 

In partnership with the Salt Lake City Department of Airports, the finished eastern portion of Concourse A features 22 gates – nine of which opened earlier this summer – bringing the airlines’ gate total to 50 at SLC. This expansion also includes a new Delta Need Help Center for customers looking for travel assistance, as well as 19 new restaurants and shops for customers to enjoy.  

Delta expands Salt Lake City hub presence with opening of new gates

This summer, Delta will operate more than 230 peak-day flights from Salt Lake City to nearly 90 destinations across the globe, with added frequencies to Austin, Charlotte, Nashville, Philadelphia and more.

“These new gates and amenities will further elevate the guest experience at the Salt Lake City International Airport for Salt Lakers and visitors from all over the world,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Salt Lake City is proud to be a Delta hub in the West and home to one of the top-performing airports in the world. The completion of this expansion will provide efficient services and modern facilities for travellers who are eager for a seamless journey.” 

Delta operates more flights out of SLC than any other airline combined, serving close to 30,000 customers daily with 237 peak-day flights to 88 destinations in Fall 2023. The airline has invested more than $12 billion in airport projects coast-to-coast in the last 10 years, doubling down on its vision for the future of travel by building airports that are comfortable, easy to navigate and part of an effortlessly connected journey. 

Earlier this year, Delta further cemented its position as the leading global carrier in SLC with a new lease agreement with Salt Lake City that increases Delta’s gate count from 55 to 66, with an anticipated completion in 2027. In June, Delta also broke ground in Salt Lake City on a new pilot training facility, marking the first training facility investment outside of its Atlanta headquarters since 1968. 

Delta's new pilot training facility in its key Mountain West hub, Salt Lake City. The 47,000-square-foot facility marks the next chapter of Delta’s investment in its 5,400 employees and customers in Utah.  

Delta’s investment in Salt Lake City grows with new pilot training facility

Located next to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), this 47,000-square-foot facility marks the next chapter of Delta’s investment in its 5,400 employees and customers in Utah.

Delta’s deep community footprint in Salt Lake City is evidenced by more than a dozen partnerships with local organizations. Alongside the start of the Utah Jazz regular season, last week marked the official return of the Delta Center to Salt Lake City since the naming rights partnership between the Jazz and Delta Air Lines was made official in July.  

Construction work to start on new hanger at Teesside International Airport

Construction work on a key expansion of Teesside International Airport is to start after plans for a major new hangar were approved.

The 27,000sq ft structure is the first of two new hangars which will provide a key development to attract further investment and return the airport to profit.

Darlington Borough Council has now granted planning approval for both hangars, subject to conditions.

Barnard Castle-based S&A Fabrications will begin work on the giant hangar on the northside of the airport after securing the contract for the project earlier this year. Work is expected to take around six to eight months.

The hangar will be 44 metres wide and 57 metres long and reach up to 16.5 metres at its highest point. When completed it will provide additional space for aircraft storage and maintenance.

More than 230 tonnes of steel will be used in its construction and the development will also include car parking and a concrete apron to access the hangar from the taxiway.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It fantastic to be moving this project forward at such speed and delivering on our aim of providing a great new location for firms to grow.

Kaunas Airport debuts next-gen aviation security scanners

Kaunas Airport Takes the Lead Among Baltic Airports 

In late October, Kaunas Airport began installing next-gen aviation security scanners and baggage handling lines. By November, all three CT scanners in the departures zone will be in place, with testing planned during December. Starting in January 2024, departing passengers will enjoy the benefits of this cutting-edge technology.

Due to the installation works in November, Kaunas Airport passengers may experience some short-term inconveniences during some periods.

The international public procurement announced by Lithuanian Airports for the deployment of next-generation aviation security scanners and baggage lines as early as 2022 has been won by the Polish company Dimark S.A., with a total value of EUR 5.8 million (excluding VAT). The winning company will deploy at Lithuanian airports X-ray equipment from the well-known German manufacturer Smiths Detection.

Due to existing infrastructure constraints at Vilnius Airport, it is not possible to install the new generation of aviation screening equipment in the old terminals of Vilnius Airport, so the technology will be deployed in the new departure terminal at the capital's air gate and will be operational in the first quarter of 2025. A total of 7 baggage screening lines and scanners will be replaced at Vilnius Airport.

According to representatives of Lithuanian Airports, the new standard scanners and lines will help to serve more passengers in the same period of time, and will provide passengers with more convenience and less stress during the screening of hand luggage.

Electronics will be able to stay inside the luggage

The deployment of third generation (C3) three-dimensional computed tomography security scanners is said to be the latest trend in aviation security screening, which is already being seen in practice in some European airports.

"We are taking a very important step towards technological innovation and are the first Baltic airports to actually implement this solution. A significant change for passengers will be that from January next year at the aviation security check at Kaunas Airport it will no longer be necessary to take any electronic devices out of hand luggage, but they, as well as other items, will be visible and analysed in three dimensions with the help of our new generation scanners without even removing them from suitcases or backpacks," Vidas Kšanas, Head of the Safety and Security Department of Lithuanian Airports, said.

The network of Lithuanian Airports consists of three airports in Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga. Kaunas Airport (IATA: KUN, ICAO: EYKA) is the second-busiest civil airport in Lithuania after Vilnius Airport.

Leeds Bradford Airport reopens after runway excursion by Tui holiday jet

Leeds Bradford Airport has reopened after a Tui jet landing at the airport yesterday overshot the runway yesterday whilst landing during storm Babet.

The flight was bringing 195 passengers and crew back from Corfu and suffered a runway excursion after it was believed to have aquaplaned during heavy rain. All on board disembarked the aircraft and there were no injuries reported. 

More than twenty other flights have either been cancelled, delayed or diverted, with some aircraft going to Manchester, Liverpool and Teesside.  Whilst the airport said there would continue to be some disruption to services, many later flights will operate as normal. 

In a statement, the airport said: "We want to express our sincere gratitude to everyone involved in supporting the effort dealing with the incident, disruption and recovery of the aircraft in exceptionally difficult conditions.

"Once again, we would like to thank our passengers for their cooperation and understanding during this challenging period"

An investigation into the incident is now underway according to the UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch and the Boeing 737 jet has been towed away from its temporary resting place with some damage reported to the left undercarriage and engine cowlings. 

Tui jet skids off runway at Leeds Bradford

Leeds Bradford Airport had been forced to close on Friday after a Tui jet skidded off the runway after landing due to stormy weather.

The TUI flight TOM3551 from Corfu landed at the airport during storm Babet and came off the runway, sliding onto the grass and getting stuck.  A spokesperson for the airport said:  "We can confirm there are no reported injuries from this incident and that all passengers have now safely disembarked the aircraft. The airport is now closed.  We are working with the airline, relevant operations teams and emergency authorities to resolve this situation and return services safely as quickly as possible."

The airport has been closed and incoming flights were diverted to various other airports, including Birmingham, Luton and Manchester. The airport has advised passengers due to depart the airport today and tomorrow to contact their airlines to check on the status of their flights. 

According to some eyewitnesses, the aircraft performed a hard landing and started to skid or aquaplane almost immediately before coming to a rest on the grass.  

The airport's emergency services responded and surrounded the stricken jet within minutes and checked the safety of the situation before passengers were taken off the jet approximately 50 minutes after landing. 

Earlier a TUI UK&I spokesperson commented: "We are aware of an incident at Leeds Bradford Airport this afternoon during the landing of flight TOM3551."There are no reported injuries, and our ground team are on hand to support passengers as they disembark."

The sky’s no limit for learners at new EMA Academy launched with Nottingham College

Hundreds of jobseekers will be given the chance to pursue high-flying careers through a specialist Academy being created by East Midlands Airport and Nottingham College.

Nottm College Partnership - 1

The Academy will offer tailor-made pre-employment and upskilling training to around 200 adult learners a year.

The free two-week courses will equip them with the skills they need to take up jobs ranging from ground crew, baggage handling, security, customer service, or roles within hotels, car parks or logistics.

The development of the fully-accredited training forms part of EMA's five-year Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy ‘Working Together for a Brighter Future,’ with the latest progress update for 2022/23 published today.

The report shows how EMA is progressing on a number of CSR commitments, including increasing its use of energy from renewable sources, granting funds for local community projects, continuing to take action to reduce noise impacts, improving service for customers with reduced mobility and increasing the number of passengers reaching the airport by sustainable transport. EMA’s parent company Manchester Airports Group also released its group-wide CSR Report today, which set out progress made against five Jet Zero Pledges.

The innovative new training partnership with Nottingham College will provide local people with the skills they need to access the varying careers available within the aviation, tourism and logistics industries. In time further opportunities for training will be opened up, helping to ensure that local people and existing staff can easily access the full range of jobs and careers on offer at EMA.

Aberdeen International Airport named Transport Hub of the Year at UK National Transport Awards

One of Ferrovial’s UK assets, Aberdeen International Airport was recognised as the UKs Transport Hub of the Year at the 20th anniversary of the National Transport Awards in Westminster.

Gateways to regions and at the very core of business and economic activity, the winner of the Transport Hub of the Year category was selected based on quantitative evidence including customer satisfaction levels, safety levels, punctuality data and surveys.

Aberdeen International Airport’s work following the passing of Her Majesty the Queen last year was recognised by the judges.

The service provided by Aberdeen International Airport to passengers with reduced mobility was also highlighted, The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) gave the airport the highest rating possible of “Very Good” for its consistent and high-quality service.

Strong September performance for MAG airports

  MAG served 5.9m passengers in September

Passenger levels at London Stansted were 100% of those seen in September 2019

Service levels across all three of MAG’s airports were very high across the month

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) served 5.9m passengers across its airports in September. Traffic across the Group, which owns and operates Manchester, London Stansted and East Midlands Airports, was up 21% on September 2022.

Service levels in September remained high, with 100% of passengers at East Midlands Airport passing through security in less than 15 minutes. The figure was 99% for London Stansted and 98% at Manchester.

London Stansted served 2.6m passengers during the month, slightly ahead of the volumes recorded in September 2019.

Manchester Airport served 2.8m passengers in September – an increase of 12% on September 2022 and equal to 96% of pre-pandemic levels. East Midlands’ September traffic of just under 500,000 passengers was 25% higher than the same month in 2022, equivalent to 84% of pre-Covid traffic.

Across the group, the 5.9m figure represented 97% of 2019 levels.

On 1st October, Ken O’Toole assumed the role of MAG CEO, as Charlie Cornish stepped down after 13 years. Ken had previously held several senior roles across MAG, most recently at Deputy CEO and formerly as CEO of both London Stansted and Manchester Airports. Charlie Cornish now sits as MAG’s Chairman, following the retirement of Sir Adrian Montague.

Passengers:

	Manchester	London Stansted	East Midlands	MAG
Rolling 12-month total to Sept ’23	27,279,257	27,375,553	3,794,763	58,449,546
12-month total % change year-on-year	+31.2%	+32.2%	+29.2%	+31.5%
Sept ’23 total	2,831,930	2,620,118	464,348	5,916,396
Sept ’23 % change year-on-year	+12.2%	+10.0%	+25.1%	+12.1%

Cargo:

	Manchester	London Stansted	East Midlands
Sept 2023 total tonnes	5,977	24,043	31,385
Sept 2023 % change year on year	+12.1%	+13.2%	-7.2%

Aviapartner Became Leader in Airport Ground Services in Spain

Aviapartner is the big winner of the tender round for Airport Ground Services in Spain.

 Aviapartner will offer their services in 12 of the 15 largest Spanish airports, including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga and Alicante. These new licenses reinforce the European leadership of Aviapartner, who already serves airlines and passengers in close to 65 airports in France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and soon Switzerland.

The Spanish airports owner AENA, listed in Madrid, announced the results of the license renewal process for all Spanish airports for the next 7 years. Already present in 7 Spanish airports since 2015, including Málaga, Seville, Menorca and three Canary Islands, the privately owned Belgian group is now adding 9 airports including Madrid and Barcelona (respectively 4th and 5th largest EU airports) as well as Valencia, Alicante, Ibiza and Bilbao.

This is an important signal for Aviapartner, as Spain is the European Union's number one country in terms of annual passengers.

A sustainable success

The successful tender round in Spain is a recognition of the strong focus of Aviapartner on quality, sustainability, safety and competitiveness. It confirms the status of Aviapartner as an international reference, a reliable and internationally experienced airlines and airports partner. The election also has a “green glow”, since sustainability criteria have been included for the first time in this Spanish tender. Aviapartner has committed, among other things, to fully electrify their fleet of ramp equipment during the license period.

The new Spanish permits will enter into force in April 2024. AENA ultimately received 168 bids from fifteen different Spanish and foreign airport service providers. These 168 proposals have been assessed on rigorous criteria regarding quality, innovation, sustainability and competitiveness.

Full staff will be retained

Amsterdam's Schiphol improving quality by catching up on maintenance......

Schiphol is prioritising quality at the airport in its investments over the coming years. Between 2024 and 2027, the airport is investing three billion euros into catching up on maintenance and upgrades. Important parts of the airport infrastructure – including Pier C, the baggage basement, climate-control systems, walkways, aircraft stands and taxiways – are due to undergo major maintenance or need renewing. This is needed in order to ensure the quality that Schiphol wants to offer employees, travellers and airlines.

From quantity to quality

Ruud Sondag, CEO said:  “After too much of a focus on costs and growth for many years, we must now play catch-up in order to offer employees, travellers and airlines the necessary quality. Quantity took precedence over quality and that didn’t do the assets at our airport any good. Things need to be done differently and investments need to be made in our location and facilities to align everything with our quality and sustainability ambitions.

We are going to catch up on maintenance to improve, upgrade and make the airport more sustainable. This is necessary and in everybody’s interest at the airport. Good working conditions, reliability, sustainability and safety are our starting points. It’s a big task, with works at the heart of the airport and a continuous operation. Of course, we’ll do everything we can to limit the risk of consequences for travellers and airlines, but some inconvenience cannot be ruled out."

Quality of service 

Assets that are in good condition and that deliver good results are key to the quality Schiphol wants to offer travellers and airlines. That’s why, day and night, a lot of maintenance is carried out to ensure that the airport facilities continue to deliver high operational performance. Because of the backlog in the replacement and renewal of our assets, investments need to be made. Here are some examples of major projects: 

Lounge 1 and 2. We have already started renovating Lounge 1. We are solving bottlenecks by expanding parts of the lounge, adjusting walkways and expanding the range of services. We’ve also started the partial development of Lounge 2. 

Walkways, lifts and passenger bridges. More than 200 walkways and lifts are being renewed over the coming years. We’re also replacing 18 passenger bridges. 

Pier A. At the moment, BAM, the contractor completing the construction of Pier A, is still doing preparatory works. This includes finalising the detailed constructions plans. That is a complex process and one that we are carrying out carefully. We expect to be able to give an update on the planning for the definitive completion phase in Q2 2024. In the meanwhile, other contractors (including Heijmans and VolkerWessels) have helped to make the pier wind- and waterproof, and half of the aircraft stands are ready. The remaining aircraft stands will be ready for the operation in January 2024. 

Pier C. We are preparing for the renovation of Pier C, which dates back to 1967. This includes improvements in technology, systems, sustainability, spatial layout and seating. Soon, we will start the tender for the design of the pier. 

Baggage system and new baggage basement. Large sections of the current baggage system are due to be replaced. Once the new baggage basement has been built, we’ll have enough capacity to replace the existing baggage system. We’re carrying out the necessary works in the meantime. Tendering for construction will begin in early October and building is expected to commence in 2026. Various scenarios for a potential new terminal on top of the new baggage basement are currently being devised. A decision will be made on that at a later date

Quality of work 

Schiphol considers it very important that everyone at Schiphol has a healthy and safe working environment. One of our top priorities is the improvement of working conditions, and that’s something we’re working hard on. Initiatives include: 

Lifting aids. Together with the handling companies, we are executing an action plan to reduce the physical workload of employees as much and as quickly as possible. There is now a lifting aid at half of the 385 work locations in the baggage halls. This number will be increased and every work location is set to have a lifting aid by April 2024. 

Work environment, rest areas and toilets. Over the coming years, 136 rest areas and 224 toilet blocks for employees are going to be renovated.  

Reducing emissions. Schiphol is taking measures to reduce the emissions of diesel and jet engines and to limit the exposure of employees to these emissions. For example, there is new electric equipment for aircraft at the gate. 

Sustainability 

Schiphol is making the airport more sustainable. Efforts to accelerate this process include: 

Electrification of ground equipment. Fossil fuel-powered vehicles are being phased out in the coming years. From baggage tractors to hotel shuttles, more and more vehicles are electric.  

Power supply. We are preparing the airport for a large demand for electricity. For example, we are constructing a new high-voltage substation.  

Climate control. Heating and cooling systems in certain parts of the terminal, as well as thermal storage. We are choosing sustainable solutions and getting off the gas grid. 

Safety 

We are investing in safety to ensure the safest possible airport processes. For example: 

Dual taxiway Quebec. To improve airside safety, the project to make Quebec a dual taxiway will be completed within the coming years. 

Aircraft stands and taxiways. Over the next few years, necessary maintenance of asphalt and concrete on the airport grounds will increase, including renovation of aircraft stands and taxiways. 

Accessibility. We want Schiphol to remain accessible and safe. We are therefore making adjustments to roads and viaducts. 

Northern Ireland’s largest airline easyJet has celebrated 25 years of flying passengers to and from Belfast International Airport

easyJet, Europe’s leading airline and the largest airline in Northern Ireland is celebrating 25 years of flying passengers to and from Belfast International Airport.

To mark the occasion the airline surprised passengers flying today from Belfast International with giveaways throughout the day including free easyJet return flights. Other celebrations, including cake giveaways, happened at the airport throughout the morning.

Since easyJet’s very first flight from Belfast to London Luton a quarter of a century ago, the airline has gone from strength to strength flying over 70 million passengers in that time with over 4.5 million flown in last year. This year easyJet welcomed its eighth Airbus A320 family aircraft to the base, the most since operations began, demonstrating the airline’s long-term commitment to Northern Ireland and operated its largest flying programme from Belfast International with 9.4% more capacity than pre-pandemic, flying 3.2 million seats to and from Belfast International. 

In the past year, the airline’s network has gone from strength to strength, adding four new routes to Antalya in Turkey, Rhodes in Greece, Southampton and most recently Hurghada, providing connections between Belfast and Egypt for the first time.

Flights to Hurghada are set to launch on 31 October with weekly departures throughout the year. Flights to Southampton from Belfast International are set to launch on 29 October with departures up to three times a week, further strengthening domestic connectivity between the regions. 

easyJet now offers more capacity from Belfast to Spain and Portugal than any other airline and links Belfast International with more London airports than any other airline, providing over 90 flights a week from Belfast International.

Ali Gayward, easyJet UK country manager, commented:  ”For over two decades, we are proud to have  served  millions of customers flying from Belfast International, where we have grown to become the largest airline not just as the airport but in Northern Ireland, with customers choosing us for our unrivalled network, fantastic service and great value fares.

And our continued success at Belfast International is testament to the strong demand we see for travel, coupled with the importance of the UK market in supporting our profitable growth.

I have to thank our fantastic customers who have travelled from Belfast International Airport with us over the past 25 years for their loyalty and support as well as our dedicated  team in Belfast for their hard work and commitment. We can’t wait to see where the next 25 years takes us.”

Graham Keddie, Managing Director, Belfast International Airport, said:  “easyJet revolutionised air travel when they arrived at Belfast international Airport 25 years ago.  They have become an integral part of the airport’s growth in that time, bringing unrivalled connectivity, significant investment and providing employment to hundreds of people.  We are incredibly proud to stand alongside them today to celebrate this fantastic milestone.  We look forward to the launch of new routes later this month to both Hurghada and Southampton and also to working alongside them on further developments.”

Last month the airline put on sale its summer 2024 schedule on sale today meaning millions of seats across 155,000 easyJet flights between 3 June 2024 and 1 September 2024 including thousands of flights to and from Belfast International are now available, so customers have the opportunity to book early and get the best fares for next summer.

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‘Outstanding’ security training gives East Midlands Airport customers peace of mind

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has once again given East Midlands Airport (EMA) top marks for the training it provides for security staff.

The ranking of ‘outstanding’ gives customers the assurance that they can travel through the airport safe in the knowledge that security teams are highly trained and they will receive excellent customer service. 

People using EMA to travel to Europe this year have on average passed through security in under 15 minutes.

The CAA’s quality assurance scheme ensures that the training of airport security staff meets the expected standards to keep people safe when flying from UK airports, with EMA last assessed as outstanding two years ago.

Airport security staff are required to be trained in several disciplines including body-searches, identifying ‘threatening’ objects, x-ray, baggage screening and patrols. Also included is a module on modern slavery so staff are well-equipped to look out for behaviours which may indicate people smuggling.

EMA has a dedicated in-house training team who carry out refresher training sessions for existing staff, as well as training for new recruits as the airport gears up for the seasonal increase in passenger numbers. January will see a new drive for more security staff, who will need to be qualified ready for April when the peak season begins.

Eliza Eabry, EMA’s Security Training Manager, welcomed the recent assessment. She said: “Safety and security is our number one priority so it’s vital we get this part of the airport operation right.

“Another ‘outstanding’ assessment of our security training from the Civil Aviation Authority is a fantastic endorsement of our efforts. This gives peace of mind to our customers and is at the heart of the hassle-free experience they have come to expect from East Midlands Airport.”