Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts

08 November, 2024

Galaxy Hotels Group opens new Courtyard by Marriott Reno Sparks in Northern Nevada

Galaxy Hotels Group has announced the opening of the company’s newly built Courtyard by Marriott Reno Sparks in northern Nevada. Offering 127 rooms/suites, the four-story Courtyard by Marriott Reno Sparks is conveniently located near the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center (TRI Center), home to some of the world’s most recognized tech companies. Frisco, Texas-based Galaxy Hotels Group, also known as Galaxy Management, is an approved Marriott International franchisee, hotel developer, and management company. Galaxy operates hotels across nine U.S. states, representing well-known brands.

Galaxy Expands Presence in Nevada


According to Jagmohan (Jag) Dhillon, chief executive officer, of Galaxy Hotels Group, the Courtyard by Marriott Reno Sparks represents Galaxy’s sixth hotel in Nevada. Galaxy operates 900 hotel keys in “The Silver State.”

“Northern Nevada is experiencing impressive economic growth. To support the area’s growing demand, we’re excited to welcome guests to our brand new Courtyard by Marriott Reno Sparks, where they can experience elevated accommodations and hospitality,” said Jag Dhillon.


Built for Discerning Business and Leisure Travellers


At the new Courtyard by Marriott Reno Sparks, guests looking to be productive or wind down will find:

Modern hotel exterior in desert tones complemented by the backdrop of Nevada’s natural beauty. Convenient porte-cochere and free self-serve parking.
Inviting interior colour palette of blues and grays with bold pops of color. Comfortable furniture and modern fixtures throughout the four-story hotel.
Thoughtfully designed, spacious guest rooms with plush bedding, 42-inch TV for streaming with guest’s mobile device, pull-out sofa, mini-fridge, microwave, flexible workspace, and fast and free Wi-Fi. Modern bathroom with tile floor, large lighted bathroom mirror, and walk-in shower or tub option.
Indoor pool and 1,700-square-foot fitness center, open 24/7, featuring cardio equipment, elliptical machines, exercise bikes, treadmills, and free weights. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an abundance of natural light in both spaces.

TD celebrates 10th anniversary of Aeroplan partnership by announcing massive contest

Beginning on November 7, the contest will feature a grand prize of 10 million Aeroplan points


To continue its celebration of a historic 10-year milestone as the primary credit card issuer for Aeroplan, The Toronto-Dominion Bank is announcing a contest with over 285,000 prizes of Aeroplan points, including a grand prize of 10 million Aeroplan points. In addition, 10 prizes of 1 million Aeroplan points each are available to be awarded.

The contest celebrates the anniversary of the partnership between TD and Aeroplan since January 2014, which has seen over 1 million Canadians earn over 300 billion points and travel to over 1,800 destinations worldwide with Air Canada and 45+ partners. TD and Aeroplan are excited about the number and size of several of the prizes, which could help winners get closer to their travel goals.

About the contest:

  • The TD Aeroplan 10th Anniversary Contest will begin on November 7, 2024 at 12:01 AM EST, and run until November 16, 2024 at 11:59 PM EST
  • The contest is open to the primary cardholders of eligible TD Aeroplan credit cards which are active and in good standing
  • For complete contest rules, prizing and a chance to enter, visit TDAeroplanContest.td.com

“We know how much Canadians love to travel, and Aeroplan points may help their travel dreams become more attainable,” said Tim Elgar, Vice President, Partnerships & Loyalty at TD. “Whether you are earning points towards a major getaway or prefer to use them more frequently towards merchandise or gift cards via the Aeroplan eStore, we’re proud to offer our TD Aeroplan Credit Cardholders a chance to enter this contest.” 


Where could 10 million Aeroplan points take you? 

10 million Aeroplan points is enough for up to 57 round-trip economy flights from Montreal to Porto, or up to 55 round-trip economy flights from Vancouver to Singapore. Even the ten second prize winners of 1 million Aeroplan points would have enough for up to 6 round-trip economy flights from Toronto to Delhi![1] 

A new Boeing 737 MAX 9 for United

Aviation Capital Group, the global full-service aircraft asset manager has confirmed the delivery of a Boeing 737- MAX 9 aircraft to United Airlines. The jet features CFM International LEAP-1B engines and is the third aircraft scheduled to be delivered to the airline as part of a multiple-aircraft sale-leaseback transaction between ACG and United Airlines.





ACG specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and aviation finance. In addition to aircraft leasing services, we provide aircraft asset management solutions tailored to meet our customers’ fleet management needs. 

.

Cathay celebrates record growth in its corporate programme to advance sustainable aviation fuel use

New global partners come onboard bringing the total to 15 as programme expands with tiered structure

Cathay continues to make significant progress in its sustainability journey, reaching new milestones since the launch of its Corporate Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Programme in 2022. This year, the programme has achieved substantial growth and is becoming one of the biggest initiatives of its kind globally, marked by new global partnerships and a record commitment to SAF usage.

Building on the momentum of the past two years, the Corporate SAF Programme has introduced a tiered structure, allowing customers to participate based on their SAF demand and business needs. Cathay is excited to welcome DB Schenker, the biggest contributor to the programme to date, and Kuehne+Nagel as Diamond partners, EQT as a Gold partner, and Julius Baer and Lenton Group as Silver partners, bringing the total to 15 partners this year. Notably, this year has seen multi-year commitments from partners as they view SAF as a long-term solution to their decarbonisation journey, reinforcing Cathay’s 2030 SAF target.

Cathay also recognises the continued commitment of some of its longstanding partners, including Airport Authority Hong Kong, AIA, Dimerco Express Group, Kintetsu World Express, Standard Chartered Bank, Swire Pacific, Yusen Logistics, and the Business Environment Council. This diverse partnership base reflects a strong commitment to reducing the climate impact from both business travel and airfreight services, and across different sectors in our community.

The programme partners together in 2024 have committed to using 2,650 tonnes of SAF (equal to 906,000 US gallons), equivalent to a reduction of approximately 8,060 tonnes of carbon emissions, three times the reduction achieved last year.

Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “Our Corporate SAF Programme has now entered into its third year and keeps expanding. The programme is a key pillar in Cathay’s overall approach to leading the aviation industry’s decarbonisation. With growing support from our corporate travel and cargo customers, Cathay continues to increase SAF usage across our network worldwide. In doing so, our customers are able to help reduce emissions from their air travel and airfreight.”

SAF remains the most crucial lever for decarbonising airline operations before alternatively powered aircraft can be widely deployed in commercial operations. Compared to conventional jet fuel, SAF can reduce over 80% of carbon emissions on a lifecycle basis, depending on the SAF technology and feedstock used.

Cathay Pacific was among the first airlines in the world to announce a target of 10% SAF for its total fuel use by 2030. Since then, the airline has successfully conducted SAF uplifts at both Hong Kong International Airport and other airports overseas.


. /
In addition to scaling up SAF adoption, Cathay also relies on fleet modernisation, operational efficiency improvements, leveraging on emerging technology breakthroughs to decarbonise aviation, and high-quality carbon offsets and removals to achieve the long-term net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2050. Additional information about Cathay’s Corporate SAF Programme can be found here.

Ethiopian Airlines Welcomes Africa's First A350-1000 Aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines, has welcomed the arrival of Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000. This significant milestone was celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and esteemed representatives from Airbus and Thales.





The aircraft landed at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, basking in a warm welcome marked by a spectacular water cannon salute. Accompanying this momentous delivery was a payload of medical supplies valued at over 100,000 Euros, generously donated to the Ethiopian Airlines Foundation by Aviation Sans Frontières in collaboration with Airbus.

Upon its arrival from Toulouse, France, the celebrations continued with a demonstration flight, inviting distinguished guests to experience the aircraft’s capabilities while enjoying stunning views of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Commenting on this historic occasion, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew expressed, “We are thrilled to welcome the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet, solidifying our position as leaders in aviation technology. This aircraft embodies cutting-edge advancements, offering superior passenger comfort, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. Together, we are pioneering a sustainable future for aviation in Africa.”

This state-of-the-art aircraft is the first to feature Thales's AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system, providing travellers with luxurious amenities, spacious seating, large screens, and a unique landscape camera. With direct aisle access for all business class seats, convenience is prioritized.

The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fibre fuselage, powered by the fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, ensuring a quieter, smoother journey for long-haul travel. This launch marks a transformative moment for Ethiopian Airlines and sets new standards for the African aviation sector, aligning with the airline's ambitious Vision 2035 plan.

Ethiopian Airlines is excited to welcome three additional A350-1000 aircraft in the upcoming months, further enhancing its modern fleet and commitment to passenger excellence.

With the addition of the A350-1000, Ethiopian Airlines reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, charting a new course for African aviation excellence.

easyJet launch first flights to Liverpool and Edinburgh from City of Derry Airport

easyJet, Northern Ireland’s largest airline, has this week launched the first flights on two new domestic routes from the City of Derry Airport to Liverpool and Edinburgh.

The new twice-weekly services – providing customers in Northern Ireland even more convenient connections across the UK – took off for the first time today with both routes operating every Monday and Friday throughout the year.

To mark the occasion, the Airport surprised the inaugural departure and arrival passengers with an easyJet orange celebration where they were treated to complimentary drinks, refreshments and giveaways before setting off. 

Special guests, the Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, Chief Executive at Visit Derry, Odhran Dunne, President of Derry Chamber of Commerce, Greg McCann, President of Causeway Chamber of Commerce, James Kilgore, and Chief Executive of Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce, Toni Forrester, joined the celebrations.

Ethiopian Airlines Commences a New Passenger Service to Bangladesh

Ethiopian Airlines has started a new passenger service to Dhaka, Bangladesh, with the first flight celebrated with a special colourful event that brought together the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Ethiopia, high-ranking officials, and Ethiopian Airlines’ executives.

The new route is operated six times a week, providing convenient travel options between Bangladesh and the vast Ethiopian global network. The flights will also create a significant socio-economic link between Africa and Southern Asia.

Mr Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, remarked, “We are pleased to directly connect Dhaka to the rest of Ethiopian Airlines global network. This route shall provide seamless connections to passengers travelling between South Asia and Africa, and beyond. With our new flight to Dhaka, our nations become closer to each other than ever.” 

Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is known for having history, culture, architecture, tradition, and lively markets in a perfect blend. The new Ethiopian Airlines flights will offer seamless travel options to both business and leisure travellers. The airline's modern fleet, award-winning service, and vast network will also cater for a memorable flight experience.  






.

Air Canada is extending its intermodal strategy across Europe to include Italy, Spain, UK as well as to Asia

.

                                                  Air Canada has announced it is extending its intermodal strategy across Europe to include Italy, Spain, and Britain as well as to Asia, with its first operator in South Korea. Customers purchasing flights can now easily book onward land connections to destinations across these countries to create a seamless travel itinerary. The new rail and bus options expand the Air Canada Intermodal offering previously launched in December 2023 in France, Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

Air Canada today announced it is extending its intermodal strategy across Europe to include Italy, Spain, Britain as well as to Asia, with its first operator in South Korea. (CNW Group/Air Canada)

"Following a successful launch in Europe last year, Air Canada is further growing its intermodal strategy to more European gateways and to Asia, making it possible for our customers to connect on Trenitalia, Renfe, five operators in the UK, including National Express, and KORAIL in South Korea. The expanded offer will make it easy for our customers flying to and from our international hubs to add convenient rail or bus connections on a single itinerary. Our intermodal connections not only provide more choice but also make available sustainable options for short-haul segments of their journey," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President of Revenue and Network Planning at Air Canada.

Enabled through Air Canada's partnership with AccesRail, customers can book efficient connecting rail or bus segments in more countries on www.aircanada.com as part of their itinerary. Customers can check in for the train or bus portion of their trip with AccesRail prior to departure, avoiding the need to obtain a separate train or bus ticket. As well, customers experiencing any flight disruption will have both their air and land segments rebooked to provide peace of mind. 

Italy

Air Canada is flying to two airports in Italy this winter – Rome and Milan – where customers will be able to connect conveniently to Trenitalia, the state-owned railway of Italy. Through these connections, customers will be able to travel to up to 30 onward destinations. These include Florence, Naples and Reggio di Calabria.

Spain

In Spain, where Air Canada will operate to Barcelona and Madrid this winter, customers will be able to connect at airports with Renfe, the state-owned rail transport provider. It will offer connections to up to 24 onward destinations throughout Spain, including popular tourist cities such as Cadiz, Granada, Pamplona, and Zaragoza. 

Britain

Customers will have the option to connect onward by land from London Heathrow. Rail services to several important destinations will be available on four rail companies, LNER, Avanti West Coast, Great Western Rail, and the TransPennine Express. In addition, the UK's leading scheduled coach operator, National Express, offers convenient connections at London Heathrow.

South Korea

Chef Monica Galetti launches seasonal menus on Singapore Airlines UK flights

Singapore Airlines has launched an exclusive in-flight menu with acclaimed chef and TV personality, Monica Galetti, on flights departing from the UK. The gourmet dining experience includes a refined four-course menu for Suites and First Class customers, and an indulgent three-course menu for Business Class customers.


Taking inspiration from her South Pacific roots and classical French training, Monica’s menu offers a fusion of flavours curated to align with in-flight wellbeing. There are four seasonal menus to enjoy, each emphasising local produce. This includes her signature Hokey Pokey dessert – a nostalgic chocolate and honeycomb treat from her childhood in New Zealand.


Monica Galetti said: “After months of menu development, I am delighted to unveil my exclusive menu for Singapore Airlines. Bringing fine dining to customers at 35,000ft is my most exciting culinary journey yet. From fresh lobster to fine caviar and warming soups to locally-sourced lamb, customers can expect an unparalleled world-class in-flight dining experience on board Singapore Airlines flights.”


Seasonal menus are now available in Suites, First Class and Business Class cabins on flights departing from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester.
. ..

The UK has announced a wave of new sanctions against Russia’s military industrial complex and Russian-backed mercenary groups.

The UK announces 56 new sanctions in its largest sanctions package against Russia since May 2023 

The action disrupts the supply of vital equipment for Putin’s war machine and bears down on Russian malign activity globally, exposing the corrupt activities of Russian proxy military groups in Africa

The UK is the first G7 country to directly sanction Russian-backed mercenary group Africa Corps, responsible for threatening stability and security across Africa


On Thursday, the UK announced a wave of new sanctions against Russia’s military-industrial complex, further restricting the supply of vital military equipment Putin desperately needs for his illegal war in Ukraine.  

New targets include suppliers supporting Russia’s military production, Russian-backed mercenary groups operating in Sub-Saharan Africa and a GRU agent involved in the use of a Novichok nerve agent in Salisbury.  

These sanctions will directly target the supply of goods to Russia’s military and constrain vital resources crucial to conduct Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.  

This action targets entities based in China, Turkey and Central Asia involved in the supply and production of goods including machine tools, microelectronics and components for drones, all of which Russia needs to support its illegal invasion of Ukraine.  

This announcement comes ahead of the European Political Community Summit in Budapest on Thursday, where the Prime Minister Keir Starmer will discuss efforts to combat Russian malign activity across Europe and reaffirm the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine.  

The Kremlin’s deliberate campaign to undermine and threaten European security and democracy and expand its sphere of influence is clear to see. Earlier this week, its attempts to interfere in Moldova’s democratic elections failed, but this is the latest development in a deliberate campaign by Russia to spread disinformation, incite violence and deter support for Ukraine.  

This latest package also targets 3 private mercenary groups with links to the Kremlin, including Africa Corps, and 11 individuals associated with Russian proxies. These targets have direct links to the Kremlin, have threatened peace and security in Libya, Mali and the Central African Republic, and have committed widespread human rights abuses across the continent.  

These sanctions will bear down on Russian malign activity in Libya, Mali, and Central African Republic (CAR), exposing and combatting Russia’s illicit activity in Africa, as it attempts to exploit the fragile security environments and natural resources in these countries for its gain and expand the Kremlin’s sphere of influence.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: "Today’s measures will continue to push back on the Kremlin’s corrosive foreign policy, undermining Russia’s attempts to foster instability across Africa and disrupting the supply of vital equipment for Putin’s war machine. And smashing the illicit international networks that Russia has worked so hard to forge.

Putin is nearly 1,000 days into a war he thought would only take a few. He will fail and I will continue to bear down on the Kremlin and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom."


. Twenty eight suppliers of machine tools, microelectronics, components for drones, ball bearings or other goods to the Russian military-industrial complex:

VIRMAVIA OÅ° (entity based in Estonia) 
DALKOS LLC 
LLC SHPINNER 
AK MICROTECH 
ELESAR GRUPP 
BY INOVASYON TEKNOLOJI SANAYI VE TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI (entity based in Türkiye) 
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY UNIMATIC 
KB NAVIS 
CJSC PERSPECTIVE TECHNOLOGIES AGENCY 
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY OPEN SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY 
STANEX GROUP LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (entity based in Kazakhstan) 
UZSTANEX LLC (entity based in Uzbekistan) 
KAZSTANEX LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (entity based in Kazakhstan) 
TSK VEKTOR 
AUTEL ROBOTICS CO., LTD (entity based in China) 
SINO HOLDINGS GROUP CO., LTD (entity based in China) 
REDLEPUS TSK VECTOR INDUSTRIAL (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD (entity based in China) 
HAINENG MACHINERY (HONG KONG) CO., LIMITED (entity based in China) 
ACE ERA CO., LIMITED (entity based in China) 
XIN QUAN ELECTRONICS (HONG KONG) CO., LIMITED (entity based in China) 
JINHUA HAIRUN POWER TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD (entity based in China) 
CHENGDU JINGXIN TECHNOLOGY CO. LTD (entity based in China) 
MAKEWELL INDUSTRIAL TRADING CO., LIMITED (entity based in China) 
DONGGUAN SHENGYIN CNC EQUIPMENT CO., LTD (entity based in China) 
ZAPCHASTTRADE LLP (entity based in Kazakhstan) 
RABADAZIYA LLP (entity based in Kazakhstan) 
CPS ENERGY LLP (entity based in Kazakhstan) 
TOO TAWKZ (entity based in Kazakhstan)
Four individuals who have benefited since the invasion in key sectors for the Russian state:

NATALIA KHIREVICH 
ALEXEY ALEXEEVICH STRELCHENKO 
SERGEY PETROVICH USHKO 
IGOR VLADIMIROVICH KHOMENKO
Five individuals who have supported the supply of goods to the Russian military industrial complex:

JAE SIK BAN  
JOUNG OK HONG  
ALEXANDER ALEXANDROVICH PUSHKOV 
DENIS VALERIEVICH TROPIN 
KONSTANTIN SVYATOSLAVOVICH KALINOV
One entity connected to Russia’s financial system: 

OOO ZENIT FINANCE 
Seven individuals connected to private mercenary groups with links to the Kremlin: 

KONSTANTIN YURIVICH MIRZAYANTS 
STANISLAV ALEXANDROVICH ORLOV 
DAVOR DRAGOLOBOVIC SAVICIC 
ALEKSANDR SERGEEVICH KUZNETSOV
MIKHAIL VICTOROVICH TURKANOV 
VITALIY NIKOLAIVICH YERMOLAEV 
ANATOLY ILYICH BIBILOV 
Three individuals connected to private mercenary groups with links to the Kremlin made under the Central African Republic (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019:

YEVGENY KHODOTOV 
ALEKSANDR YURYEVICH KUZIN 
EVGENY KOPOT 
One individual connected to private mercenary groups with links to the Kremlin made under the Libya (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020: 

ANDREY VLADIMIROVICH AVERYANOV 
Two private mercenary groups with links to the Kremlin: 

BEARS BRIGADE 
PMC ESPANOLA 
Three private companies with links to the Wagner Group:

MARKO MINING 
THE OFFICER’S UNION FOR INTERNATIONAL SECURITY  
RADIO CENTRAFRICAINE LENGO SENGO
One private mercenary group with links to the Kremlin made under the Libya (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020: 

AFRICA CORPS  
One individual under the Chemical Weapons (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019:

DENIS SERGEEV

Emirates Group and Dubai Airports have released an economic impact study

Emirates Group and Dubai Airports released an economic impact study that reaffirms the central role aviation plays in Dubai’s economy, by quantifying its contributions and forecasting the sector’s upwards trajectory, based on financial and passenger growth projections for the sector.

The study, compiled by global research firm Oxford Economics, includes an assessment of direct economic activity generated by the aviation sector, indirect activity generated through the sector’s supply chain, and induced activity supported through wage-funded consumption by the local aviation workforce. The study also assesses the catalytic impact of tourism spending facilitated by the aviation sector in Dubai.


His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, of Emirates Airline & Group, and Chairman of Dubai Airports said: “Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s aviation sector has been a core pillar of our city’s economic growth strategy to date, and it will continue to play a key role in the D33 Economic Agenda.

“Supported by strong air connectivity, Dubai has a prominent presence on the global stage for trade, investments, tourism, and is a leading player in aviation and logistics. Our ambitious plans for Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport, and our ongoing investments to expand capacity at Dubai International, will unlock further economic opportunities by supporting the projected demand for air transport. Our growth plans will generate even more skilled jobs, and also help drive innovation as we work with leading technology partners to develop future solutions to enhance travel experiences and make operations more efficient and secure.”

Aviation sector’s contribution to Dubai's economy


In 2023, Dubai’s aviation sector, consisting of Emirates Group, Dubai Airports (including Dubai International and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum airports), and other aviation sector entities¹ are estimated to have supported AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) in gross value added² (GVA), equivalent to 27% of Dubai’s GDP. This included the core economic impact of AED 94 billion and AED 43 billion from the catalytic impact of aviation-facilitated tourism. These figures are projected to increase steadily, with aviation activities facilitated by Emirates and Dubai Airports contributing AED 196 billion, or 32% of Dubai’s forecasted GDP by 2030 (in 2023 prices).

Porter expands Montréal & Ottawa hubs with launch of seasonal U.S. routes

Porter Airlines’ growth continues with the inauguration of three new seasonal routes from Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to the United States.

Nonstop service to and from Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) from both Ottawa and Montréal-Trudeau begins this weekend. Porter is the only carrier operating the Ottawa - Las Vegas route.

Daily, nonstop service between Montréal and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) also starts this weekend. The new route is Porter’s first directly connecting Montréal and Florida.

Flights are operated on the 132-seat Embraer E195-E2. Passengers will experience Porter’s signature elevated economy service, which includes a two-by-two seating configuration, free premium snacks, free, fast WiFi, and complimentary beer and wine served in glassware for everyone. PorterReserve fares provide an all-inclusive package with fresh, healthy meals, dedicated airport check-in, early boarding, and more legroom.

The addition of these routes connects travellers in Eastern Canada to more destinations across Porter’s network and complements the airline’s existing service between Toronto Pearson - Las Vegas and Fort Lauderdale. Connecting flights are also available to and from Ottawa and Montréal via Toronto Pearson, and globally through partner airlines.

“The addition of these routes builds on our commitment to expand our Eastern Canada network. Passengers in Ottawa and Montréal now have even more options to choose from when planning their winter travel, and they will receive an elevated economy experience that brings back the joy of flying.”

Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines

.

The flight schedules are as follows:

Route

Departure

Arrival

Days of operations

Ottawa - Las Vegas

6:00 p.m.

8:20 p.m.

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday

Las Vegas - Ottawa

9:35 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

Montréal-Trudeau - Las Vegas

5:35 p.m.

8:25 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

Las Vegas - Montréal-Trudeau

8:50 a.m.

4:35 p.m.

Montréal-Trudeau - Fort Lauderdale*

9:20 a.m.

1:10 p.m.

Daily

Montréal-Trudeau - Fort Lauderdale**

6:35 p.m.

10:20 p.m.

Fort Lauderdale - Montréal-Trudeau

2:10 p.m.

5:35 p.m.

* November 2, 2024 - December 13, 2024

** December 14, 2024 - April 22, 2025

All times are local.




Mark E. Gale, CEO/director of Aviation, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport said:  "At FLL, we've enjoyed our partnership with Porter Airlines over the past year, and we look forward to welcoming its new flights to Montreal. With the addition of Montreal, Porter will now serve three destinations in our top international market, Canada, including Toronto and Ottawa."

American Express Global Business Travel hits back against UK's Competition and Markets Authority over merger with CWT

American Express Global Business Travel, has confirmed this week that the U.K. Competition and Markets Authority has published its interim report regarding Amex GBT’s proposed acquisition of CWT, a global business travel and meeting solutions provider. 

Amex has hit back against the CMA, saying it fundamentally disagrees with the CMA’s interim assessment that the transaction may result in a substantial lessening of competition in the UK and it will continue to work collaboratively with the CMA to demonstrate that the transaction should be approved by the CMA.

The CMA’s interim report does not reflect the evidence presented on the highly competitive and dynamic nature of the business travel sector, Amex contends. It attacked the CMA saying it wrongly focused on business travel and accused it of ignoring lots of sources of evidence. 

Amex says it will fight back with the UK regulators to correct what it perceves as l errors and misconceptions about how the business travel sector operates and to demonstrate that the CWT acquisition will not harm competition in the UK or elsewhere. 

The Amex acquisition of CWT will create synergies and provide greater capacity for investment and innovation, it says. Amex promises the takeover would create more choices for customers and more efficient distribution for suppliers while maintaining a highly competitive environment for business travel services.

With a change of leadership in the U.S. Amex GBT confirmed it will continue to work collaboratively with other regulators, including lobbying the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, in their review of the transaction. Amex doesn't believe the UK's authority will be toothless in its opposition and vows the transaction will be completed during the first quarter of 2025.

Eric J. Bock, Amex GBT’s Chief Legal Officer and Global Head of M&A, said: “We are disappointed by the CMA’s interim report. The CMA has not appreciated the evidence that reflects the breadth of the business travel industry and its dynamic and competitive nature. In recent years, numerous travel management companies have expanded their offerings while other companies have entered the industry and are rapidly growing their businesses. We are reviewing the interim report closely and will be responding to the CMA’s concerns. We firmly believe that the proposed transaction would result in many customer and supplier benefits and that the business travel industry would remain highly competitive. We will be engaging further with the CMA to demonstrate why its concerns are not justified.”

Martin Coleman, chair of the independent inquiry group assessing the deal, said: "Despite the increased use of video conferencing, business travel continues to be a necessary component for effectively doing business for many companies and a major area of expenditure. Business travel also plays an important role in the UK economy, facilitating global trade, supply chains, knowledge exchange and international investment. A cost-effective, good quality and efficient business travel sector is therefore an important underpinning element of UK productivity and economic growth.

We have provisionally found that only a small number of business travel agencies are considered capable of meeting the needs of the largest companies and this deal could reduce competition and increase costs."

Archer announces third quarter 2024 results

Manufacturing facility set for completion in the coming weeks, focus going into 2025 is on building piloted, type-design aircraft for use in testing and early commercial deployment

Nearing completion of Phase 3 of the FAA’s type certification process while continuing to rapidly advance Phase 4, the final phase to secure type certification

Established a consortium led by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to launch commercial air taxi services in the UAE as early as Q4’25


Archer Aviation Inc. announced operating and financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024. The Company issued a shareholder letter (LINK) discussing those results, as well as its fourth-quarter 2024 estimates.

Commenting on third quarter 2024 results, Adam Goldstein, Archer’s founder and CEO said: “Over the past six years, we have established the foundation to allow Archer to seamlessly transition from concept to commercialization. As we enter the final stretch of bringing Midnight to market, our strategy is paying off in the form of strong certification progress, the eVTOL industry's most mature scalable manufacturing facility in the U.S. and launch plans that are solidifying in the U.S and abroad. We believe we are in the strongest position in the industry to lead the transition to commercialization."


The Falkland Islands Government to order four new BN2B-26 Islander aircraft at a total value of $9.75 million.

Amazingly good news for the Isle of Wight-based Britten-Norman aircraft manufacturer after it confirmed The Falkland Islands Government has signed a Letter of Intent with them with a view to ordering four new BN2B-26 Islander aircraft at a total value of $9.75 million.  


The new aircraft project is part of a plan to further modernise the fleet operated by the Falkland Islands Government Aviation Service (FIGAS) as it marks 75 years of operations. The order is in addition to two aircraft that FIGAS has already contracted Britten-Norman to build, the first of which is now in service. All of the new aircraft will be delivered from Britten-Norman’s UK-based manufacturing line on the Isle of Wight, which the company launched in late 2023 after re-shoring from overseas. 

FIGAS has been an integral part of Falkland's life since 1948. Their existing fleet of five Islanders serve in a variety of roles and are essential in keeping the Falklands and its more remote communities connected. In addition to commuting flights, regular missions include air ambulance, postal carrier, freight, veterinary transport, environmental monitoring and increasingly popular scenic flights. 

Qantas 737 engine malfunction suspected as cause of fire at Sydney Airport

A passenger heard a loud bang on a Qantas aircraft as it took off from Sydney earlier today on a flight heading to Brisbane and the crew experienced an engine malfunction. The result was a large grass fire at the side of the runway, causing plumes of smoke to rise into the air.


One of the passengers on the flight was a producer for the Today Show and told the programme about her experiences. "'We had just taken off when we heard a bang. One of the engines appeared to have failed.  There was silence on board and for a while, it felt like we weren’t gaining much altitude. There were some worried looks throughout the cabin.  About ten minutes later, the pilot came on to reassure us about safety, explaining that they’d had an issue with the right engine on takeoff and had to shut it down for safety reasons."

According to local media reports, the aircraft circled around Botany Bay before making an emergency landing back at Sydney, followed by fire engines and emergency response vehicles. All 174 passengers disembarked the Boeing 737 safely and no injuries have been reported. Qantas, Australia's leading legacy carrier largest airline has already launched an investigation into what caused the incident. 

A spokesperson for the airport confirmed the "Main runway is operational, however, passengers should also expect some delays and we thank everyone for their patience." 

Another passenger on the flight was ABC journalist Mark Willacy, who describes the emergency from his perspective in the following video.



The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) confirmed it had commenced an investigation, a spokesperson said the bureau is looking into "the engine failure incident involving a Qantas 737 aircraft during take-off from Sydney on Friday afternoon."

A team of transport safety investigators have already begun collecting evidence and "at the ATSB’s request, the operator has quarantined the aircraft’s cockpit voice and flight data recorders.  Once downloaded, information from those recorders will be analysed at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra."

There has been some concern voiced locally that engineers from Qantas examined the engine and said it was a "contained engine failure" with parts taken prior to the ATSB investigators' arrival.   

.

Search