January passenger numbers up 30% for East Midlands Airport .....

The New Year really did get off to a flying start at East Midlands Airport (EMA), with more than 40,000 additional passengers choosing it compared to last January.

That’s an increase of almost 30% during what is traditionally a quieter time of the year, demonstrating a huge vote of confidence in EMA among its customers.

The 177,184 people who travelled through EMA during January boosted the overall total for the rolling 12 months to 3.9m, close to pre-pandemic levels.

The latest statistics are revealed as the airport gears up for the half-term break, when 105,000 passengers are booked to fly – a 16% increase on last year. This bodes well for EMA’s best summer yet as more people pick it as their airport of choice from a wider catchment.

As well as residents from the three counties surrounding the airport, people from areas including South Yorkshire, West Midlands, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire are increasingly choosing EMA as their low-cost gateway to Europe and beyond. They are also attracted by the effortless experience of getting through security and into the shops, bars and restaurants of the departure lounge.

By the summer, passengers will also benefit from some of the first improvements that have been carried out as part of a £120m investment programme at EMA. This includes upgraded toilets, a refreshed Castle Rock bar, new seating, better customer wi-fi throughout the terminal and new trolleys.

And two of the main airlines serving EMA, Tui and Jet 2, are each adding an extra aircraft to those that are based at the airport, meaning the aircraft stands will be at capacity this summer.

EMA’s Managing Director Steve Griffiths said: “The number of people choosing us compared to January last year is really encouraging. We’re pleased that increasing numbers of people are flying through East Midlands Airport for their European holidays, and these figures give us confidence for a strong performance this half term holiday and an even stronger summer.

“We know that more people from further afield are willing to make longer journeys to EMA, in the knowledge that their experience here won’t be stressful, as it can be at other airports. The vast majority of our customers clear security in under 15 minutes so they can start to relax and get into holiday mode sooner. Extra aircraft bringing our stands to capacity also shows airlines’ confidence in EMA and bodes well for the future.”

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Delta to introduce more premium lounges in 2024

2023 saw major upgrades and additions to the Delta Sky Club network, with five new Clubs and two expanded or reopened locations. And 2024 is shaping up to be even more eventful, as Delta’s long-awaited premium lounge experience brings a new, heightened level of service and hospitality to customers in JFK, LAX and BOS.  

JFK will host the inaugural premium lounge, a sweeping 38,000-square-foot space that will feature both a full-service brasserie and a casual, chef-assisted market with open kitchens, dedicated wellness areas and more. Just like Delta Sky Clubs, no two premium lounges will be alike; each location will include elements inspired by and unique to its host city.  

While access guidelines for the premium lounge are still being finalized, Claude Roussel’s (Vice President – Sky Club and Lounge Experience) vision for the customer is clear. “We want each of our guests to receive a highly personalized and dedicated level of service,” he said. “It’s not enough to have beautiful spaces and exceptional offerings. Premium lounge customers should feel welcomed and known when they walk in the door, just as they would at their favorite hotel or restaurant. We look forward to providing that warm welcome and making ‘premium’ feel personal for each guest.”

Delta will open five new lounges in 2024, adding more than 2,700 seats to its lounge network between 2023 and this year. Here’s a closer look at what eligible customers can look forward to.  

New clubs and expansions.

LGA: An expansion of the Terminal C Club will add a Sky Deck and more than 100 seats to the Club. Early summer 2024 

MIA: Following an expansion of the Club at Miami International Airport, the location will top 12,000 square feet with planned seating for 320 guests. Q2 2024  

JFK: The much-anticipated premium lounge will make its debut early summer 2024. At 38,000 feet (including a year-round terrace), JFK’s premium lounge will be the largest in the Delta network. June 2024 

CLT: A new market for Delta Sky Club, the first-ever Charlotte location will seat over 250 people and measure nearly 15,000 square feet. Q4 2024 

SEA: Delta Sky Club will open a 21,000-plus-square-foot location on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s Terminal A, its second Club at the airport. Q4 2024 

Say hello to MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport.......

Say goodbye to Montreal Saint-Hubert Airport 

Say hello to MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport.

Henceforth, the airport located in Saint-Hubert since 1927 will be known as MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport. The abbreviation MET will be used to enhance brand recognition and accessibility. The green line incorporated into its logo symbolizes the movement of the Saint Lawrence River, reflecting connectivity, mobility, and the dynamism of its new purpose. Its electric green colour builds upon the previously used forest green, evolving the visual identity towards novelty and vibrancy, highlighting the organization's commitment to the development of green and innovative technologies.

"With this substantial development, we are changing the very nature of the airport. Our ambition is to revolutionize the airport model, making it a source of collective pride and inspiring the world to view air transport differently. This is what the new identity of the airport represents," stated Mr. Yanic Roy, CEO of MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport. Upon the opening of the new terminal in the summer of 2025, airlines will serve the entire country. Consequently, MET will be propelled among the largest airports in Canada. In doing so, Montreal will join the trend of major world metropolises that benefit from multiple interconnected airports to meet their air transport needs. This complementarity is central to the development of MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport and is expressed through four key commitments:

Revolutionize the airport model by initiating and adopting eco-friendly and cutting-edge practices.

Be a citizen airport serving the people and communities.

Contribute to making Montreal a leading airport destination.

Improve the connection of people in Quebec with the rest of the world.

More than just a name change, the new identity of MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport is the promise of an innovative and different airport experience that listens to communities and industry stakeholders, initiates the latest advancements to build a leading, innovative, and sustainable airport model.

"We are not seeking growth at any cost. We are developing an airport in harmony with its environment, in consultation with communities, and utilizing its facilities to promote innovation and green transition. With MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport, we aim to surpass the traditional model of air transport and contribute more to society," specified Mr. Yanic Roy, President and CEO of the airport.

It is worth recalling that on February 27, 2023, the airport announced its partnership with Porter Airlines for the construction of a commercial terminal with a capacity of 4 million passengers annually. These investments of over $200 million mark the beginning of a significant transformation into commercial aviation serving major domestic destinations.

MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport is a non-profit organization established in 2000 that owns the infrastructure and land. MET aims to showcase and exploit the full potential of this highly important airport for the Montreal region and the aerospace innovation hub of Longueuil. We are developing a new airport model that prioritizes human-scale air transport, eco-responsibility, community collaboration, and the integration of cutting-edge practices. With a main runway of 2.4 kilometres in length, MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport can accommodate the majority of commercial aircraft in Canada. However, the airport has chosen to design its facilities to admit only quieter and more eco-friendly single-aisle aircraft. Its commercial terminal has been under construction since August 2023 and will be operational in the summer of 2025, accommodating 4 million passengers annually. Just 15 kilometres from downtown Montreal, MET - Montreal Metropolitan Airport is strategically located for airlines and business aviation. Its terminal will offer travellers unprecedented speed, aesthetics, and comfort.

MET – Montreal Metropolitan Airport 

BARIG welcomes Capital City Airport Berlin Brandenburg as new partner

Working together to drive innovation and improve processes

 

With Berlin Brandenburg Airport, BARIG (Board of Airline Representatives in Germany) welcomes another airport in its partner portfolio. In this context, the association of airlines operating in Germany is intensifying the exchange with relevant system partners from a wide range of aviation sectors to jointly meet the manifold challenges of the industry. 

“Well-coordinated processes at airports are essential for reliable air transport operations,” Michael Hoppe, BARIG Chairman and Executive Director, emphasizes. “We are therefore delighted to welcome the capital city airport of Berlin Brandenburg as a new partner in our network. In a constructive exchange, we can drive forward important initiatives and work together on improvements in the interests of the airlines, their passengers, and cargo customers.” 

As the airport for the German capital region, Berlin Brandenburg Airport registered around 23 million passengers last year, most of them being transported by BARIG member airlines. Since January 1, 2024, the airport’s operating company has taken over passenger and baggage security controls at BER from the Federal Police. The aim is to further reduce waiting times for travellers. In addition, the airport’s security controls will be equipped with highly advanced CT scanners, which will further simplify and accelerate processes. 

Aletta von Massenbach, Chief Executive Officer of Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH highlights: “At BER, we put great emphasis on innovation in order to offer our customers the best possible service and make maximum use of the airport’s potential. The most recent example for that is the takeover of responsibility and management of aviation security controls and the associated investment in new screening technology. We are looking forward to the dialogue with BARIG and its international airline representatives. Together, we want to further advance air traffic for the capital region and eastern Germany.”

Sky’s The Limit For Businesses at Teesside Airport

Teesside International Airport is being transformed into a world-class business destination at the heart of one of the UK’s largest and most integrated industrial economies. From cutting-edge business units with airside access to a state-of-the-art cargo handling facility and hangars, there are facilities to meet every business need. Read more below.

Teesside Airport Business Park

Our Business Park is a 818-acre site situated both north and south of the runway. It offers almost 400 acres of development land primed for high-quality offices, warehousing, logistics and aviation-related uses.

The Business Park is part of the Teesside Freeport – the UK’s largest and first operational airport – allowing investors to benefit from customs reliefs, simplified customs procedures and streamlined planning processes.

Business Park North is already home to companies such as FedEx, Serco, Willis Asset Management Ltd and its subsidiary Willis Aviation Services, Draken and others. Approximately 105 acres of developable land are located here, with airside access available where required. It is ideal for a variety of uses including aviation, light industrial; hotel and leisure; retail and offices. As part of an existing multi-let modular building, there is offer 850sq ft of office accommodation here too, located close to the Airport terminal.

Business Park South offers a further 270 acres of development land, with 2.8million sq ft planned accommodation. The £200million Business Park South is currently under development, with planning consent secured and construction commenced on Phase 1a comprising four units covering 135,000sq ft. Unit D is the first to be constructed. Outline planning consent is secured for Phase 1b for B2 and B8 use.

Sectors suitable for development include Advanced Manufacturing and engineering; low carbon energy and renewable industries; logistics; innovation and life sciences; aerospace and defence and electronics and avionics.

A one-mile link road connects the Business Park South with the A67, which offers excellent access to regional and national markets via the A19, A1(M) and A66. Direct flights to Amsterdam Schiphol and Aberdeen unlock global destinations, trade hubs and the offshore industry, with half-hourly trains connecting with London in just over two hours.

Chase opens its Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club at New York’s LaGuardia Airport

The new Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club at LaGuardia Airport’s new Terminal B offers an elevated experience with Chase’s first-ever bookable Reserve Suites, dedicated wellness rooms, a game room and exclusive menus from New York staples including Joseph Leonard and Jeffrey’s Grocery, and drink selections from Parcelle, Apotheke and Joe Coffee.

Chase has opened the newest Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club at New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA). The entrance to the two-floor lounge is located post-security on the fourth floor of the newly redeveloped Terminal B and is the brand’s largest to-date at more than 21,800 square feet.

Additionally, Chase will further expand its lounge network with a new lounge location at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The space is a joint offering with Etihad Airways, who previously operated the lounge. This location will offer the signature Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club experience. Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club with Etihad Airways will open on January 23, at John F. Kennedy International Airport in Terminal 4 post-security in the Mezzanine on Level 4 located above Gate A2.

“Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers are travellers by nature and New York City is continuously topping the list of their travel destinations. As such, we’re thrilled to expand our offering to serve New Yorkers and visitors, alike,” said Dana Pouwels, Head of Airport Lounge Benefits and Strategic Partnerships for Chase. “With an expansive space, VIP touches, wellness amenities, locally sourced dining and more, this new lounge at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B reflects our dedication to enhancing cardmembers’ travels from beginning to end.”

“We’re honoured to welcome Chase to Terminal B upon the opening of the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, which will be a spectacular addition to our new terminal,” said Suzette Noble, Chief Executive Officer, LaGuardia Gateway Partners, the manager and developer of Terminal B. “This new amenity beautifully complements Terminal B’s commitment to elevating the experiences of our guests from the tri-state area and around the United States.”

ULTRA-LUXE RESERVE SUITES WITH CAVIAR EXPERIENCE

A first for both Chase and LaGuardia Airport Terminal B, “The Reserve Suites by Chase” are private bookable rooms where Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers can have a dedicated suite attendant for the ultimate white glove travel experience. Guests can relax in the highly private spaces with their travel companions and enjoy a menu from Jeffrey’s Grocery designed exclusively for The Reserve Suites. The Reserve Suites by Chase experience also includes a signature caviar service and a reserve wine list curated by favored New York City wine bar and retailer, Parcelle, featuring varietals from some of the most sought-after wineries across the globe. Guests who book a suite can use luxurious hair and bath products in the ensuite bathroom and shower, and prior to flight departure will have the option to select a premium travel gift. Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers can find booking and pricing details on the Chase Mobile® app in Benefits & Travel.

London Gatwick proud to partner with Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology

London Gatwick has proudly partnered with the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT), a collaboration between businesses and education providers to deliver technical skills and qualifications required in the region. 

By partnering with the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology, which launched earlier this academic year (2023-24), students will gain first-hand airport experience, network with professionals and learn about the latest technical developments across London Gatwick. 

London Gatwick has helped shape the curriculum to ensure the courses are relevant and responsive to the needs of the local economy. Specialist staff at the airport will also host masterclass sessions for students and hold mock interview sessions and feedback.   

The Institute of Technology differs from colleges and universities by bringing together businesses with a group of education providers in a collaborative partnership to support the technical skills requirements of the area they serve.  

The aim is to create a diverse and skilled pipeline of local talent which is critical to the local community and London Gatwick’s future growth.   

London Gatwick’s Cyber Security Apprentice, Malaika Khan, is also studying through the Institute of Technology. She said: “My experience at London Gatwick as a Cyber Security Apprentice has been nothing short of extraordinary. I have gained a deeper understanding of cyber security and developed a stronger passion for this dynamic field thanks to the incredible support of my team members and plenty of hands-on experience.  

“London Gatwick and the Institute of Technology has provided me with invaluable guidance and an environment of collaboration that is helping me to shape into an enthusiastic cyber professional. I'm grateful for this opportunity and excited for the continued growth ahead!” 

As part of London Gatwick’s sustainability policy, Decade of Change, the airport has committed to dedicating time to support local workforce skills initiatives. As a result, Gatwick has been involved in the design and delivery of training, with a focus on IT and cyber security.  

Nick Batchelor, Director of Information Technology, London Gatwick said: “We are delighted to be an industry partner of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology, an exciting institution for the region, its learners and employers.   

London Gatwick becomes first international airport to open dedicated electric vehicle charging station - Electric Forecourt

London Gatwick has become the first international airport to open an Electric Forecourt, a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging station, with the new GRIDSERVE facility available for all to use from today.  

The brand-new site has 30 high-power and low-power electric vehicle chargers available via contactless payment - ideal for passengers, staff, local residents, commuters, or business fleets - alongside high-speed Wi-Fi, a lounge area, Costa Coffee, Little Fresh convenience store and an interactive EV experience area. 

All charging bays are powered by 100% net zero energy, with the fastest chargers capable of adding up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes. Visitors can also speak to a GRIDSERVE EV Guru to gain advice on which EV may best suit their needs, and take the opportunity to test drive an EV. 

Bronwen Jones, Development Director, London Gatwick said: “We are proud to be the first international airport to open a GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt®. The charging station has been placed in a strategic location and will be available to millions of passengers, commuters, staff, residents and businesses that pass through the area each year.   

“We are making sustainability part of everything we do here at London Gatwick and we are committed to creating a low-carbon economy by providing new infrastructure that everyone can use, so together we can reduce emissions. As we invest in our long-term, future growth additions such as GRIDSERVE are vital to London Gatwick’s ecosystem.” 

Stansted set to welcome new routes in 2024

From Jordan to Florence, there are some exciting new flights that will be taking to the skies from London Stansted in 2024.

12 new services will be added to the airport's departure boards, giving people even more access to destinations from their local airport.

London Stansted serves more European destinations than any other UK airport and the new services will further strengthen its current route network, which now covers over 190 destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Amman, Jordan – Royal Jordanian

An exciting new route will be added this spring when Royal Jordanian Airlines launches flights to Amman, Jordan’s capital. The flag carrier, a member of the oneworld Alliance which includes British Airways, will operate three flights a week starting March 3, increasing to four weekly flights during peak summer.

Flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays using the airline’s new Airbus A320 neo fleet with one-way fares from London starting at £257. The Stansted to Amman leg will depart mid-afternoon at 3.45pm and arrive at Queen Alia International Airport at 10.35pm.

Nice, Florence and Ibiza – British Airways

7 active holiday ideas for 2024, just one flight from Manchester

 If you’ve made a new year’s resolution, there’s a good chance that living more healthily comes into it. Research for Forbes showed that nearly two thirds of resolutions people make are connected to exercise or dietary changes, and becoming more active is the most common resolution made.

January is also one of the most popular times of year to book a holiday, with millions making plans for this summer – and if you’re looking to incorporate a health kick into your next sunny getaway, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re flying from Manchester. The northern hub boasts direct flights to more than 200 destinations and many of them offer holiday experiences that go far beyond the classic combination of sun, sea and sand.

Here are seven ideas to get your adrenaline pumping.

Climb a volcano in Italy

Mount Etna is something of an enigma; standing alone amidst the quiet rolling hills of Sicily, off the coast of the Italian mainland, is one of the world’s most active stratovolcanoes. It’s also one of the most visited, thanks in part to the fact it lies less than 25 miles from the popular Mediterranean resort of Catania.

Multiple tour operators lead expeditions up the volcano’s slopes, where you can circle the crater (safety permitting!) and see lava flows. Exploring volcanic caves also forms a part of many excursions, and some tours include visits to vineyards at the foot of Etna, which benefit from fertile volcanic soils. The return trip typically takes around 6 hours and requires a moderate level of fitness, but you don’t need to be an expert hiker. Once you’re finished on Etna, Sicily is a fantastic place to explore on foot, with dozens of trails and footpaths through unspoilt countryside.

Flights to Catania from Manchester are available with easyJet or Ryanair.

East Midlands Airport has announced a £120 million investment programme

East Midlands Airport has announced an investment programme of more than £120m to improve all aspects of the passenger experience over the next five years.

Following an intensive period of planning and design, work is getting underway on the transformation to refresh the airport infrastructure, maintain safety and regulatory standards and help it operate more efficiently - making travel through the airport even more effortless than it already is for its more than 4m annual passengers.

Areas which will see improvements include:

·       Expanding the security hall to facilitate installing next-generation scanning equipment

·       Improvements to toilet facilities, customer seating and a programme of roof renewals

·       Improvements to heating and cooling in the terminal

·       Proposals to improve Rapid Drop-Off arrangements

·       Upgrades to air traffic control systems

·       Reconstruction of taxiways.

Works have started on the extension of the security hall, following planning approval from North West Leicestershire District Council. Internal improvements will include enhancements to the entrance portal to improve access into the main security area, as well as enhancements to the facility to improve its look and feel.

This will mean that next-generation body and baggage scanning technology can be installed to allow passengers to pass through security checks without the need to separate electronic devices from baggage. This will improve EMA’s already excellent timings for clearing security which is typically under 15 minutes. This security changes are part of new Government rules, which will also see the removal of the 100ml liquid restrictions.

Also underway are improvements to the main customer toilets in the Departure Lounge, next to the Castle Rock bar. This will involve replacing and upgrading the facilities to a modern standard with new fixtures and fittings. It will complement an extensive refurbishment of the bar area that Castle Rock is carrying out. Further upgrades to customer toilets will follow. It’s hoped that later phases of the investment programme will see the new look and feel in the security hall carried through into the Departure Lounge, where new and additional customer seating will be installed.

As part of the investment programme, EMA is also exploring a range of options for improving the Rapid Drop-Off area which will help to improve the flow of vehicles through the site, which could include installing cashless and barrierless operating systems.

In addition, work has begun to upgrade the terminal roof which due to the age of the building is in need of remedial work. The first phase will focus on the roof above the Departure Lounge area which during heavy rainfall can suffer from leaks.

Reconstruction and resurfacing of the taxiways will also be carried out. The size and number of aircraft using EMA has increased and this drives the need to invest in renewing and reconstructing some of the most heavily trafficked areas to better accommodate modern aircraft. This work will be carried out through carefully managed programmes of closures including overnight and at weekends and in consultation with airlines so disruption is minimised.

Bournemouth Airport on track for 1million passengers

Bournemouth Airport expects to handle more than one million passengers in 2024 as Ryanair confirms its 19th destination from the airport.

And to cater for the expected passenger growth, airport owners Regional and City Airports is investing more than £5m in new facilities, equipment, staff and training.

Ryanair has confirmed it will start twice weekly flights to the beach destination of Agadir in Morrocco from 1st April next year.

The expanded network brings to 19 the number of destinations that Ryanair now offers from Bournemouth.

It follows the success of Ryanair’s 2023 season which saw it base a second aircraft at the airport for the summer, increasing the number of flights by 30% to 120 a week.

And tour operator TUI has already announced it will add a second aircraft at Bournemouth in 2024 with an extra 60,000 seats available, a 33% increase on its 2023 schedule. TUI has 14 destinations from Bournemouth with increased frequency planned on many routes next year.

The growth in destinations and frequency means the airport, which employs more than 250 people, expects to exceed one million passengers in 2024. The last time it hit that milestone was in 2008, 15 years ago.

Steve Gill, managing director of Bournemouth Airport, said: “We’ve embarked on a major investment programme to cater for the anticipated growth in passenger numbers. Before the pandemic we saw 800,000 passengers. Having exceeded that this year, we are confident of seeing more than one million in 2024.

passenger terminal expansion construction set to begin in early 2024

Lithuanian Airports has signed a contract with INFES, which has won a public tender and will carry out the expansion of the Kaunas Airport passenger terminal. The value of the contract is EUR 17.7 million (excluding VAT). The contractor is expected to start work in the first quarter of 2024 and finish in mid-2025.

The terminal expansion will double passenger capacity at Kaunas Airport to 2 million passengers per year.

"Kaunas Airport is demonstrating very strong passenger growth rates that far exceed the design capacity of the existing terminal building, so expansion is essential. The expanded terminal will be able to handle twice as many passengers - around 2 million travellers per year in total. This will respond to current travel trends and future growth prospects. Passengers will have more space and more technological advances, which means faster procedures and more comfortable waiting for flights," says Arnas Dūmanas, Director of the Development Department of Lithuanian Airports.

According to the data of this year, passenger flows at Kaunas Airport are at a record high: it is expected that this year the airport will handle about 1.3 million passengers.

Air Samarkand Receives Air Operator Certificate (AOC)

Carrier readies services from the country's second city

Air Samarkand has moved nearer to the launch of charter flights and scheduled services after receiving its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Uzbekistan Ministry of Transport's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The announcement confirms the airline's compliance with the requirements of the country's aviation legislation and with international standards and requirements for flight safety under the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation. It follows a thorough audit of the airline's technical documentation, equipment and aircraft systems, preparation for flights, as well as the qualifications of flight and ground personnel by inspectors of the Uzbekistan Ministry of Transport.

Anton Khojayan, CEO of Air Samarkand, said:  "We thank the Ministry for Transport and the UzAviation Agency for their thorough assessment of our preparation for flights. Air Samarkand is now a further step nearer to the commencement of services from this incredible, historic city of Samarkand. Everything is now ready for this."

The airline has also officially received its own 'UZS' code from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), as well as the radio call sign 'Samarkand'.

More services between Reading and Gatwick Airport as new December timetable kicks in

Great Western Railway is to double the number of direct trains between Reading and Gatwick Airport as part of its new December timetable. 

Two trains an hour will now operate to/from the airport Monday to Saturday, extending the service which currently terminates at Redhill, making a half-hourly direct service and reflecting the airport’s welcome recovery in passenger numbers. 

Services have also been slightly retimed to even out the timetable and give a regular xx24 and xx54 departure from Reading, and a xx29 and xx59 departure from Gatwick. 

GWR Station Manager for the North Downs line, Andrew Gallaugher, said: “We are really pleased to be able to further improve the services we offer to and from the airport.  

Supporting the local economy, investing in the railway and enabling more people to make sustainable transport choices is really important to us, and this is another step forward for customers of the North Downs Line.”  

BARIG Welcomes Düsseldorf Airport as New Partner

Intensive exchange for improved processes

Jointly prepared for the UEFA European Football Championship 2024 in Germany

 

BARIG (Board of Airline Representatives in Germany) supports dialog and intensive exchange with system partners from the aviation sector in order to jointly meet the challenges of the industry. In this context, the association of airlines operating in Germany welcomes Düsseldorf Airport as a new partner. After Munich and Stuttgart, Düsseldorf becomes another airport in BARIG’s partner portfolio.

“Air traffic can only perform well if infrastructure and processes are constantly optimized. Airport operations in particular play an essential role in this regard,” Michael Hoppe, BARIG Chairman and Executive Director, states. “There are many complex interfaces between airport operators and airlines where other players are involved as well, for example in ground operations, aviation security, or sustainability. A good, constructive exchange can contribute to further improvements here, and passengers as well as air cargo customers will benefit from this.” 

At the last BARIG Full Board meeting in Frankfurt am Main on December 13, 2023, representatives of Düsseldorf Airport and the airlines discussed preparations for next year, particularly with regard to upcoming major events in 2024. 

Delta expands Digital ID program to LAX, LGA and JFK for touchless airport experience.

Digital ID, Delta’s time-saving, industry-first technology that allows customers to check bags and move through security without showing a physical government ID, is growing its presence with expansion to three major hubs.

Delta customers in LAX, LGA and JFK now have a quicker way to move through the airport – just in time for holiday travel.  

Debuted in 2021 at the airline’s Detroit and Atlanta hubs, Delta Digital ID provides customers with a seamless, hands-free way to navigate the airport. Now, this industry-leading technology — developed in close partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) — is expanding to three key coastal hubs.  

Delta Digital ID uses biometric facial matching to eliminate the need for an agent-facilitated document check, allowing customers to move through bag drop and security checkpoints with more convenience and ease. This completely optional technology is eligible to customers who: 

Have a TSA PreCheck® membership 

Have passport information and a Known Traveler Number stored in their Delta profile  

Have a (free) SkyMiles membership 

Have the Fly Delta app 

How to opt in to Delta Digital. 

Eligible customers will receive a notification in their Fly Delta app when travelling from a Digital ID-enabled airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL); Detroit Metro Airport (DTW); Los Angeles International Airport (LAX); LaGuardia Airport (LGA); and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK, launching Dec. 14). Once opted in, Delta Digital ID becomes part of a customer’s SkyMiles profile, though they may choose to opt-out at any time. Delta does not save or store any biometric data. 

Eligible customers can always opt into Digital ID via their SkyMiles profile on Delta.com. A passport and/or Known Traveler Number will need to be stored in the customer’s SkyMiles profile before they’re able to opt in. 

Customers can use Delta Digital ID to check bags and move through security without having to show a physical ID (following the post-launch verification period). They will simply navigate to the appropriate line – look for the green “Delta Digital ID” icon – look into the camera at bag drop and/or the security checkpoint, and use their digital identity in place of a physical ID.  

While time savings at security lines vary according to airport volume, Delta Digital ID transactions at bag drop take an average time of 30 seconds – a near-1.5-minute time savings from the standard bag drop time of two minutes. Overall, customers using Delta Digital ID outperform other Fly Delta app users by double-digit margins in satisfaction with the check-in and security experiences. 

“We know a frictionless airport experience is integral to your satisfaction with your overall journey,” said Allison Ausband, Chief Customer Experience Officer. “With Digital ID, our customers spend less time hassling with their wallets, and our agents spend less time checking documents. It opens an opportunity for our people and our customers to genuinely connect.”  

Delta’s partners at the TSA see equal benefit in bringing this technology to more locations. “Delta Digital ID helps passengers save time and improves security effectiveness," said Austin Gould, Assistant Administrator, Requirements, Capabilities and Analysis – TSA. "It's a simpler, more convenient experience – one that strictly adheres to passenger privacy and our security protocols, as well as our mission of protecting our nation’s transportation systems.”  

While facial matching algorithms are extremely accurate, a trained agent will inspect the customer’s government-issued ID if the technology is unable to identify a customer.  

Since its implementation at ATL and DTW, Delta Digital ID’s time-saving value has proven to be highly popular, with a large majority of eligible customers opting in to the technology. That popularity will drive expansion in the coming year; as soon as January, Digital ID’s presence in Atlanta will expand to the international terminal (ATL-F).  

While Delta looks to expand the technology to additional hubs in 2024, the launch of Digital ID at LAX, LGA and JFK should be a boon to customers ahead of the busy year-end travel season. 

“Delta Digital ID provides a huge benefit in both time-savings and convenience, and we’ve been working with our partners for years to expand its reach,” said Greg Forbes, Managing Director – Airport Experience. “We’re thrilled to bring this technology to a whole new subset of our customer base.” 

More changes to Gatwick's expansion plans

Since submitting its Northern Runway plans to the Planning Inspectorate,  London Gatwick has refined its proposal and identified three discrete changes to reduce its environmental impact even further, while also providing additional design flexibility. 

 

Before submitting these changes to the Planning Inspectorate, the airport will next week on 13 December 2023, open a consultation so that the public, landowners and other stakeholders can give their views on the proposed changes.

These views will be taken into account before the airport submits a request to amend its DCO application to the Planning Inspectorate. It will be for the Planning Inspectorate to decide if the changes can be made to the application and included in the examination.

The consultation will close at 11:59pm on 21 January 2024.

The airport proposes making the three separate changes to the Project below. Further detailed information on these changes and information on how to submit responses to the consultation will be available on the London Gatwick website once the consultation is live.

Project Change 1: Increase to the design parameters for the North Terminal International Departure Lounge proposed southern extension

Project Change 2: Reduction in the height and change in the purpose of the replacement Central Area Recycling Enclosure (CARE) facility

Project Change 3: Revision to the Surface Water Treatment Works system

London Gatwick’s application to bring its Northern Runway into routine use, alongside its Main Runway, was accepted for examination by the Planning Inspectorate on 3 August 2023.

The airport’s Northern Runway plan would create around 14,000 new jobs and inject £1 billion into the region’s economy every year from increased tourism, trade, supply-chain, and other business opportunities.

Christmas all wrapped up, up and away at East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport (EMA) is preparing for a busy end to the year, with more than 100,000 passengers set to fly through its terminal in the last two weeks of the year.

More than 5,000 people will travel through on Friday 22 December alone, which is set to be its busiest day of the festive period.

The bumper Christmas travel season comes on the back of a strong November, with fresh figures revealing 188,556 passengers passed through EMA during the month – up by 29% on last year.

That brings the airport’s annual total to 3.2m, with it on course to break through the 4m mark by the end of March.

EMA’s Customer and Planning Director Mike Grimes said: “We’re delighted to welcome thousands of customers to the airport during the festive period – it’s a really special time of the year for people to get away. Our staff love to make the whole experience convenient and hassle-free.

“A strong performance this winter on top of a busy summer is expected to boost overall passenger numbers to above 4m by the end of the financial year, taking us to pre-Covid levels and giving us the promise of 2024 being a very Happy New Year. We also have a programme of improvements getting underway which will make the experience of flying from EMA even more comfortable and effortless.”

·       Passengers are attracted to EMA by its effortless travel experience and frequent low-cost flights to destinations at this time of year offering Christmas Markets, Alpine skiing or winter sun

·       On Friday 22nd December alone, 5,068 are expected to travel to a range of European destinations

·       Overall, the airport’s passenger numbers are up by almost 567,000 compared to November last year, showing an ongoing post-pandemic confidence among holidaymakers.

Proposed project changes to London Gatwick’s Northern Runway plan

Since submitting its Northern Runway plans to the Planning Inspectorate,  London Gatwick has refined its proposal and identified three discrete changes to reduce its environmental impact even further, while also providing additional design flexibility. 

 

Before submitting these changes to the Planning Inspectorate, the airport will next week on 13 December 2023, open a consultation so that the public, landowners and other stakeholders can give their views on the proposed changes.

These views will be taken into account before the airport submits a request to amend its DCO application to the Planning Inspectorate. It will be for the Planning Inspectorate to decide if the changes can be made to the application and included in the examination.

The consultation will close at 11:59pm on 21 January 2024.

The airport proposes making the three separate changes to the Project below. Further detailed information on these changes and information on how to submit responses to the consultation will be available on the London Gatwick website once the consultation is live.

Project Change 1: Increase to the design parameters for the North Terminal International Departure Lounge proposed southern extension

Project Change 2: Reduction in the height and change in the purpose of the replacement Central Area Recycling Enclosure (CARE) facility

Project Change 3: Revision to the Surface Water Treatment Works system

London Gatwick’s application to bring its Northern Runway into routine use, alongside its Main Runway, was accepted for examination by the Planning Inspectorate on 3 August 2023.