WestJet gives Calgary more Dreamliner

Photo WestJet

      WestJet revealed its winter 787-9 Dreamliner schedule, announcing the state-of-the-art aircraft will now fly between Calgary and Maui and will operate an additional day to London (Gatwick) this winter.  

As part of the schedule release, WestJet also announced the 787-9 Dreamliner will be operating daily service between Toronto and London (Gatwick) starting October 23, 2019.

"Flying on the WestJet Dreamliner is a game changer in travel; guest feedback on the experience has been phenomenal," said Brian Znotins, WestJet Vice-President Network Planning and Alliances. "The Dreamliner was built for transoceanic routes with technology that reduces jetlag and leaves travellers feeling more refreshed upon arrival. With our custom cabins and award-winning service, guests are going to love the journey as much as the destination."

"Our guests love travelling to Hawaii, and now their trip to Maui will be even more memorable with WestJet's Dreamliner service to the island," said Bob Sartor, President and CEO, The Calgary Airport Authority. "Thank you to WestJet for another significant commitment to your Boeing 787-9 hub at YYC."

Toronto gets on board the WestJet Dreamliner to London this winter

WestJet Dreamliner to Gatwick                              Photo WestJet

The Canadian airline WestJet revealed this week that its winter 787-9 Dreamliner schedule, announcing the state-of-the-art aircraft will be operating its Toronto-London (Gatwick) route. The addition of the WestJet Dreamliner to this route gives Eastern Canada the opportunity to experience a new Business and Premium service between two large financial and tourism centres.

This daily Dreamliner service, starting October 23, 2019, upgrades WestJet's existing Toronto-London service operated on the 767. As part of the schedule update, WestJet also announced the 787-9 Dreamliner will be used to operate flights between Calgary and Maui up to four-times weekly starting October 31, 2019, and between Calgary and London four-times weekly starting October 27, 2019.

WestJet continues its European expansion........

WestJet continues Dreamliner momentum with the first Calgary-Paris service

Fresh from the news that the airline is about to be sold to Toronto based investment firm Onex, WestJet continues its rapid expansion into the transatlantic market with passion.

The Canadian airline became the only airline to operate a non-stop route between Paris and Calgary this week with a new Dreamliner service. The airline's newest route, along with its codeshare partnership with Air France, provides historic new access between Western Canada and Europe. Canadian business and leisure travellers now can fly to and from 11 cities in  Europe including Rome, Venice, Athens and Lisbon through WestJet's Air France codeshare partnership from Paris. 

"WestJet's first non-stop flight from Calgary to Paris opens up a key market for inbound tourism to Western Canada and easy and unique travel opportunities throughout Europe for Western Canadians," said Arved von zur Muehlen, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. 

Qantas Dreamliners to head to San Francisco from Sydney

Photo Qantas

The Australian airline Qantas has confirmed the next destination for a Dreamliner service with be -San Francisco!

From 4th December 2019, customers travelling between Sydney and San Francisco will experience the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s next generation Economy, Premium Economy and Business cabins.  The change is timed with the phased delivery of the airline’s six additional Dreamliners as the more efficient aircraft gradually replaces the Boeing 747 aircraft on Qantas’ international network by the end of 2020.

The popular Californian city is one of five international destinations currently served by the Qantas Dreamliner, together with Los Angeles, New York, London and Hong Kong.  The Sydney-San Francisco Dreamliner service will operate daily and complements Qantas’ existing Dreamliner service between Melbourne and San Francisco which operates four times per week.

Air Europa to launch new Dreamliner Business Class cabin

The Latin America specialist airline Air Europa has announced the launch of a new Business Class cabin design, adding more Business Class capacity and greater privacy for passengers. 

The new design will be installed on the airline’s new Boeing 787-9 aircraft from October 2019 and will feature a 1-2-1 layout, giving every passenger direct aisle access and privacy from neighbouring seats.  The airline says each seat will be upholstered in high-quality leather and can be converted easily into a bed.  

China Southern Airlines gets first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from Air Lease Corp

One of the world's leading aircraft leasing firms, Air Lease Corporation has delivered one new Boeing 787-9 aircraft on long-term lease to China Southern Airlines.

This new addition to the China Southern Airlines fleet is the first of five 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft scheduled to be delivered from Air Lease and the aircraft is powered by GEnx-1B76A engines. The remaining aircraft are due by the end of 2020.

The airline's 787 features a classic three-cabin layout with 228 seats spread out between 4 in first class, 24 in business class, and 200 in economy class. The seats in first and business class can all recline 180 degrees to lie flat, while all first-class seats also feature an independent laptop power source, noise-cancelling headphones, a satellite telephone, and a 17-inch LCD HDTV, allowing travellers to enjoy a world of their own that is spacious, private, and quiet. The economy class uses the same seats found in China Southern Airlines' A380 economy class, which have individual 9-inch TVs to enjoy the inflight entertainment system. 

Four new routes from budget carrier Norwegian as Milk takes to the air

Norwegian Expansion

It's been a busy weekend for the budget carrier Norwegian, which is continuing to expand with new routes, whilst it also cuts costs and attempts to become a leaner operation to head back in to profits.

The airline started non-stop services between Europe and three new North American airports over the weekend. 

Dublin - John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (4 times a week)

London - Miami  (moved from Fort Lauderdale - daily service)

London - San Francisco  (moved from Oakland - five times a week)

Rome - Boston   (4 times a week)

Qantas celebrate a year of long-range non-stop Perth London route

Photo Qantas

The Australian airline Qantas is celebrating a year of operating the direct non-stop Perth - London route, with a special long-range Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The introduction of the non-stop direct service has gained the airline over $100 million of free publicity - which is rather amazing, although not surprising considering the global coverage the opening of the route got.

Independent analysis by Deloitte Access Economics also indicates that 60% of passengers on the Boeing 787 service are Australian, UK passengers made up 31% of the loads. The leading Australian airline says it has seen a 30% increase in the number of passengers travelling between Australia and London via Perth. 71% of international visitors on the route choosing to stopover in Perth, helped to drive more than 1 million visitor nights spent in Western Australia.

WestJet's dreamliner debut

WestJet's Dreamliner made its official commercial debut yesterday when it operated its first revenue flight from Toronto's Pearson International Airport to Calgary.

The "First revenue flight on the Dreamliner has been years in the making," said Arved von zur Muehlen, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. "There are big things in store for tail 901 as it is the first 787 that will take WestJet global."

The aircraft will operate on domestic flights for crew training and regulatory compliance before the first scheduled international flight between Calgary and London Gatwick on April 28th.

WestJet took delivery of its first of 10 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in January 2019 and the second Dreamliner arrived on February 19, 2019. The airline will receive the third aircraft in March. Hub locations and routes for the remaining seven aircraft have not yet been announced.

'The Global Era' - WestJet gets its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

The handover of the first 787 for WestJet  Photo Boeing

One of Canada's leading airlines, WestJet has entered into what it calls 'the global era' with the arrival of the carriers first widebody Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

The aircraft has been named in honour of the airline's chairman and founder, Clive Beddoe and will be based at the airline's hometown base of Calgary.

"Today's delivery marks a new chapter for WestJet," said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. "Boeing's 787 Dreamliner is one of the most technologically advanced aircraft ever flown and is the perfect platform for our transition to a global network carrier. We look forward to bringing Canadians to the world and the world to Canada in comfort and style."

Etihad Airways to put a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on Hong Kong route.

The Abu Dhabi based Etihad Airways has confirmed it will introduce a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its daily scheduled service from home base Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong. From 31st March 2019 the two-class aircraft will replace the Airbus A330-200 aircraft currently operating the route 

The new 787-9 Dreamliner service to Hong Kong will feature the airline’s next-generation Business and Economy cabins, configured with 299 seats - 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart Seats -  a capacity increase of six seats in Business and 31 in Economy in each direction, and an increase in belly-hold cargo capacity of four tonnes.    

Timetable

Boeing 787 schedule to Hong Kong effective 31 March 2019

Flight	Origin	Departs	Destination	Arrives	Frequency	Aircraft
EY 834	Abu Dhabi	22:05	Hong Kong	10:05	Daily	Boeing 787-9
EY 833	Hong Kong	19:05	Abu Dhabi	23:25	Daily	Boeing 787-9

Notes: All departures and arrivals are listed in local time.

The news of the placement of Boeing 787's on the Hong Kong schedule follows on from the news that the carrier will deploy 787's on the Barcelona route.

Etihad Airways to introduce Boeing 787 Dreamliner on daily Hong Kong service

Etihad Airways, the Abu Dhabi based gulf mega-carrier has confirmed it will introduce the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its daily scheduled service from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong, effective 31 March 2019. The two-class aircraft will replace the Airbus A330-200 aircraft currently operating the route 

The new 787-9 Dreamliner service to Hong Kong will feature the airline’s next-generation Business and Economy cabins, configured with 299 seats - 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart Seats -  a capacity increase of six seats in Business and 31 in Economy in each direction, and an increase in belly-hold cargo capacity of four tonnes.

Qantas first Dreamliner service to Hong Kong

The first Qantas Dreamliner service from Australia to Hong Kong took off on Thursday, December 13th, marking the first destination in Asia to be served by the airline’s Boeing 787-9.

QF29 pushed back from Melbourne just after 10am this morning and is scheduled to arrive in Hong Kong at 4.15pm (local time) later today.

The launch follows the arrival of Qantas’ eighth Dreamliner in November, joining the national carrier’s A330 and A380 aircraft that also fly to Hong Kong.

Customers travelling on selected Qantas flights to Hong Kong from Brisbane and Melbourne, and from Sydney, next March will experience the Dreamliner’s next generation seating in Economy, Premium Economy and Business class cabins.

Hong Kong joins Los Angeles, New York, London and San Francisco as international destinations served by the Qantas Dreamliner, as the more efficient aircraft gradually replace the 747 on key routes.

Qantas has also re-timed one of its two daily flights from Sydney to Hong Kong from 31 March 2019, offering customers the choice of a midday or evening departure from Sydney.

QF117 will operate overnight and arrive into Hong Kong in the morning, providing more options for onward connections to other destinations in Asia, including those operated by Qantas’ new codeshare partner Cathay Pacific.

Hainan Airlines to launch Chongqing-Shanghai-Boston and Chongqing-Shanghai-Seattle service in December

One of the fastest growing airlines from China, Hainan Airlines recently announced it will be launching two new services between  Chongqing-Shanghai-Boston and Chongqing-Shanghai-Seattle as part of the carriers ongoing global expansion programme.

The two routes will start on December 11th and 12th respectively and will be operated on luxury wide-body Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. These aircraft are fitted out with the airlines spacious and comfortable cabins that feature reverse herringbone seating in business class, complete with BOSE noise reduction headphones and Bulgari toiletries. Every passenger can enjoy the exclusive on-demand entertainment system and of course, in typical Hainan style, every passenger will be served sumptuous offerings from both Western and Oriental cuisines.

Norwegian’s nonstop route to Tampa, Florida takes off

The worlds best long-haul low-cost airline Norwegian, has commenced its new nonstop service to Tampa Bay today, giving passengers a super affordable way to access Florida’s west coast.  

New Tampa route joins increased flights 

to Orlando and Fort Lauderdale

The impressive award-winning airline will operate a new twice-weekly service from London Gatwick to Tampa International Airport (TPA) which offers holidaymakers a convenient nonstop service with direct access to Florida’s Gulf coast. It also provides passengers with more choice and flexibility when travelling to the sunshine state with Norwegian.

Flight schedule: London Gatwick - Tampa - local times:

DI 7165 Departs London 14:55 Arrives Tampa 19:35 - Wednesdays and Saturdays

DI 7166 Departs Tampa 21:00 Arrives London Gatwick 09:55+1 - Wednesdays and Saturdays

In addition to the twice weekly service to Tampa, Norwegian has also increased its winter services to other Florida destinations from its London Gatwick base. The airline now offers a daily service to Fort Lauderdale, increasing from three flights per week and five weekly flights to Orlando up from three per week, giving more choice to travellers seeking a relaxing beach holiday, with 14 flights per week to Florida it is even easier to visit its world-famous family adventure parks.

Daily service to Buenos Aires.

In response to strong demand for the London Gatwick to Buenos Aires route, services have increased from four flights a week to a daily service providing customers with greater flexibility and convenience. The launch of Norwegian’s domestic flights from Buenos Aires will allow passengers to fly affordably across the country. Lowest fares are now available from £265 in economy or passengers can fly in enhanced comfort in the Premium cabin from £640 one way.

United Airlines launches inaugural flight between San Francisco and Tahiti

One of the leading US mega-carriers, United Airlines today started the only nonstop service by a U.S. carrier to the Islands of Tahiti. The airline launched its first flight between San Francisco and Pape'ete, the capital of Tahiti. As part of its inaugural celebration, United also announced it is extending its Tahiti schedule to year-round service from San Francisco.

"We are thrilled to extend this exciting flight to a year-round schedule," said Janet Lamkin. "For Californians and our customers connecting through San Francisco, this route offers an escape to a little corner of paradise."

United launches the only nonstop service to the Islands of Tahiti by a U.S. carrier from the mainland United States

San Francisco 1445  Tahiti               2125

Tahiti               2345 San Francisco  0950 next morning

United's newest international flight offers customers a convenient gateway to the islands of French Polynesia including Mo'orea, Bora Bora, the Marquesas and Rangiroa. Starting today, United's service to Tahiti departs San Francisco International Airport on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Beginning March 30, 2019, United will begin year-round service on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. United will operate the route with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft throughout the year.

United and United Express operate more than 250 daily flights between San Francisco and 90 destinations throughout North America, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Caribbean. From San Francisco, United will continue to operate nonstop seasonal summer service to Zurich in 2019 and recently announced it will be the only U.S. carrier to offer daily, year-round nonstop service to Amsterdam beginning March 30, 2019. 

(Images United)

Air Canada expands Dreamliner services

.Air Canada to Increase YVR-Delhi Flights to Daily, Year-round; Expands Dreamliner Service From YVR to Several International Destinations in Summer 2019.

The Canadian legacy carrier Air Canada felt significantly threatened by the announcement yesterday from rival airline WestJet regarding the routes it would deploy Dreamliner 787 aircraft to, that it rushed out ahead of schedule its own 'Dreamliner' announcement.

Air Canada says they will upgrade its Vancouver to Delhi route to a daily operation from 2nd June 2019. The airline, that always seeks to stifle all competition confirmed it will be increasing its non-stop Melbourne service to four times a week all year long and its summer seasonal service to Zurich will increase to five flights a week. Meanwhile, the Vancouver - Osaka will become a five times weekly service between June and October next summer.  All of the flights will be operated with Air Canada's flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Air Canada's Boeing 787 Dreamliner features three cabins of service with high-definition individual on-demand entertainment offering a wide range of movies, short films, TV programs and audio selections at every seat throughout the aircraft.

Air Tahiti Nui gest first 787-9 Dreamliner

The impressive South Pacific airline, Air Tahiti Nui has received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from Boeing, via a special lease deal with Air Lease Corp. 

The airline will use the longest-range Dreamliner to replace its older Airbus A340s connecting its home base in the South Pacific with world capitals such as Paris, Tokyo and Los Angeles. The carrier has configured the new fleet arrival with 294 seats spread over three classes. The cabin features a new business class equipped with 30 fully lie-flat seats, along with 32 premium economy seats.

Tahitian airline to fly longest-range 787 from

the South Pacific to Europe, Asia

"Our dream has finally become reality with the arrival of Air Tahiti Nui's first 787-9 Dreamliner," said Michel Monvoisin, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Air Tahiti Nui. "The Tahitian Dreamliner will make flying to one of the world's treasures an unforgettable experience, as we introduce new seats and a culturally inspired cabin on the 787. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year, the 787 Dreamliner will guide us toward another successful 20 years and beyond."

Vienna calling...................more time for Waltzing and swirls as Air Canada launches new route from Toronto

Vienna calling...... The leading international Canadian carrier, Air Canada have confirmed this week that they will be introducing a new year-round service between Toronto and Vienna from 29th April next year.

The airline says it will operate Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on the route which featuring Signature Class, Premium Economy and Economy cabins. During the winter season, from November until March, flights will operate five days a week, outside those months there service will operate on a daily basis. This service is offered in partnership with Star Alliance joint venture partner Austrian Airlines complementing their Montreal-Vienna flights also beginning in April 2019.

Year-round non-stop flights to with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners

Star Alliance joint venture partner Austrian Airlines

to begin Montreal-Vienna service in April 2019

Juneyao Airlines announces stylish theme for its 787 Dreamliner fleet

Juneyao Airlines recently announced the planned suite of services for its first 787 Dreamliner, including the promotional video "Dream a Journey; Share a Trip", the fine design of the seats and cabin interiors, and the special liveries of the 787 fleet. The array of unique service offerings is meant to demonstrate the superior features of the premium aircraft and how the airline stands unique and apart from its rivals with the mission of delivering Juneyao Air's brand initiative "Warm Journey Beyond Imagination".