Singapore Airlines returning to Manchester in July.

Singapore Airlines has confirmed the return of flights from Manchester to Singapore from 17th July 2021. The flights will be operated by the A350-900, 3 times per week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. The airline will focus on the return of the Singapore service first and then look to reinstating transatlantic services to Houston.

 

 

 

With direct flights to Singapore, the carrier offers onward connections to its growing route network to over a hundred other destinations, including  Bangkok, Phuket or Kuala Lumpur

Airbus A350-900

Engine type	Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84
Number of seats	253 (Long Haul) 161 (Ultra Long Range) 303 (Medium Haul)
Length	66.8 m
Wingspan	64.8 m
Cruising speed	0.85 Mach

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Fly Leasing shareholders approve acquisition by Carlyle Aviation

Fly Leasing announced this week that it has received shareholder approval to be acquired by an affiliate of Carlyle Aviation Partners, the commercial aviation investment and servicing arm within Carlyle's $59 billion Global Credit platform. Approximately 99.9% of the votes cast at the special general meeting of FLY's shareholders voted in favour of the transaction.

Closing of the transaction remains subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to close prior to the end of July 2021. Upon closing, FLY shareholders will receive $17.05 per share in cash for each FLY share that they own.

Following the closing of the transaction, FLY shares will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the company will become part of Carlyle Aviation.

Carlyle is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Investment Solutions. With $260 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2021, Carlyle's purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 1,800 people in 29 offices across five continents.

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American Airlines Invests in the Future of Urban Air Mobility

 As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, American Airlines today announced it will invest in Vertical Aerospace, a leading UK-headquartered engineering and aeronautical business developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. With the investment, American is demonstrating its focus on emerging technologies to reduce carbon emissions and investing in innovative ways that could improve the customer journey.

As part of its investment in Vertical, American has agreed to pre-order, subject to certain future agreed upon milestones and other terms, up to 250 aircraft, representing a potential pre-order commitment of $1 billion, and an option to order an additional 100 aircraft. The airline also expects to make a $25 million investment in Vertical through a private investment in public equity (PIPE) transaction. Vertical is developing the VA-X4, a zero-carbon aircraft that can carry four passengers and a pilot, and fly at speeds up to 200 mph over a range of over 100 miles.

Giant order for up to 500 electric aircraft valued at US$2 billion from leasing firm Avolon

Avolon, one of the leading global aircraft leasing company, and Vertical Aerospace, the most advanced electric vertical take-off and landing (‘eVTOL’) company in the world announce a ground-breaking US$2 billion order for up to 500 electric eVTOL aircraft. This agreement, which is subject to certain closing conditions, will introduce the ultra-short-haul aircraft category to commercial aviation, a game changing development that will revolutionise air travel with zero emissions aircraft.

The agreement will combine Avolon’s scale and deep industry relationships with Vertical’s leading technological position in the eVTOL space and will see both companies collaborate throughout the development, road map to certification and subsequent commercial roll-out of the VA-X4. Avolon will join Microsoft, Rolls-Royce, Honeywell, and American Airlines as equity investors in Vertical, working also with Virgin Atlantic who will be a VA-X4 launch airline customer in Europe.

The order highlights Avolon’s commitment to sustainability and responsible investment and its position as an industry leader and innovator. The commitment to the VA-X4 places Avolon at the forefront of technological change in the industry and underlines Avolon’s belief in the electrification of air transport. Avolon’s existing young and fuel-efficient fleet will be complemented by an investment in a new category of ultra-short-haul aircraft that will produce zero emissions.

WestJet to offer most flights to Hawaii this winter

The Canadian airline WestJet has announced significant growth to its Hawaii network, featuring more Dreamliner flights from Western Canada to Maui and new non-stop service from Calgary to Kona and Lihue this winter. With 57 weekly roundtrip flights on 10 nonstop routes, WestJet offers more service between Canada and Hawaii than any other airline.

"With easing travel restrictions, we know our guests are planning to turn their long-awaited Hawaiian getaway dreams into a well-deserved reality," said John Weatherill, WestJet, Chief Commercial Officer. "We've increased our winter service to Hawaii by more than 25 per cent from 2019 to ensure our guests have increased flexibility and the most affordable, non-stop options from Western Canada."

New service from Calgary to Kona and Lihue

WestJet is adding new weekly non-stop service from Calgary (YYC) to Kona (KOA) and Lihue (LIH) beginning in December. With the addition of the new service, WestJet will offer service to four Hawaiian destinations non-stop from Calgary and two from Edmonton.

"Our guests will love to say aloha to the additional direct flights to tropical Hawaii," said Bob Sartor, President & CEO, The Calgary Airport Authority. "We're ready to welcome guests back safely to the home and hub of WestJet and we look forward to the added sunny winter options for Albertans and connecting passengers from out of province."

BARIG Welcomes Joint Paper on the “Restart of Air Traffic”

“Important positive signal for the travel industry, aviation, and the people in Germany”

Joint work of the BMVI, BDL, BARIG, DRV, and other Federal Ministries

Concept sets highest possible health standards for travelling

 

The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) expressly welcomes the joint paper on the “Restart of Air Traffic,” which was presented today as part of the virtual press conference “Update: Travel in Summer 2021.” Under the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI), this concept was jointly developed by the following:

German Air Transport Association (BDL)

BARIG

German Travel Association (DRV)

Federal Ministries such as the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) and the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMI), the Federal Foreign Office (AA), and other parties involved

 

It describes how the complex interaction of all those involved in air traffic and within the entire travel chain can be designed in a way that is safe for health.

BARIG Secretary General Michael Hoppe comments: “The paper on the ‘Restart of Air Traffic’ is an important positive signal for the travel industry, aviation, and the people in Germany. With the agreed framework conditions, international travel is once again much easier. Thus, German citizens can plan visits to relatives and friends, their summer vacation, and business trips abroad. Clear rules apply to all those involved in the travel chain, ensuring health-safe flying from departure to arrival.”

“We would like to say thank you to the political representatives, the BDL, and the DRV for their constructive cooperation. Together, we have developed the best and safest solutions for the aviation industry and the passengers.”

“We, therefore, wish you ‘Bon voyage’ and ‘Always Happy Landings’.”

 

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This fall, American will add ten new domestic and four new international destinations to flights departing from Austin

The U.S. mega-carrier, American Airlines has announced a number of new routes from its hub at Austin, Texas, including four new international destinations, further connecting Austin to the carrier’s global network.

“Earlier this year we added more flights from Austin, and customers have spoken: they want more,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Vice President of Network Planning. “We're eager to offer our customers even more opportunities to reconnect with family, friends and colleagues. Together with our partners, we’re making it easier than ever to connect Austin with the world.”

“For the past 40 years, American Airlines has connected Austin and Central Texas with the world,” said Steve Adler, Mayor of Austin. “We couldn’t be happier with today’s announcement of new and expanded service in AUS. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with American for many more years to come.”

Ten new domestic nonstops

American will add three-times daily service to El Paso, Texas (ELP); twice-daily service to Cincinnati (CVG); Indianapolis (IND); Kansas City, Missouri (MCI); and St. Louis (STL); and daily service to Jacksonville, Florida (JAX); Oklahoma City (OKC); Reno, Nevada (RNO); San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU); and Tulsa, Oklahoma (TUL):

Just in time for planning winter getaways, Central Texans will have four new international options to consider as American adds nonstop service to Cancun, Mexico (CUN); Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR); Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (PVR); Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ). The carrier will also begin year-round nonstop service from AUS to Los Cabos, Mexico (SJD) and Nassau, Bahamas (NAS) following this summer’s successful seasonal service:

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oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance Urge Universal Travel Standards

   

                                             To facilitate the safe restart of international travel and restore the value contributed by travel and tourism to the world’s economy, the three global airline alliances oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance are calling on G7 governments, at their upcoming leadership summit on 11-13 June, to agree on a common set of travel and health standards to enable the safe reopening of borders.

COVID-19 has significantly impacted the travel and tourism sector, which has long been a key contributor to many economies. A recent estimate by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) showed that international tourism declined by around 80% in 2020. Prior to the pandemic, tourism contributed more than 4% of GDP for the average OECD country, with the World Travel and Tourism Council estimating up to 174 million jobs at risk globally.

United Airlines Ventures will invest in high-potential companies focused on sustainability, aerospace, and other innovative technologies

United Airlines launched a new, corporate venture fund today – United Airlines Ventures – that will allow the airline to continue investing in emerging companies that have the potential to influence the future of travel. The new fund will concentrate on sustainability concepts that will complement United's goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 - without relying on traditional carbon offsets - as well as revolutionary aerospace developments and innovative technologies that are expected to create value for customers and United's operation.

"Younger companies today have learned from aviation's rich history and are combining it with more advanced technology and creative thinking to develop new ideas that give us the ability to revolutionize how airlines operate and in turn, the experience customers have when they fly,"  said United CEO Scott Kirby. "With United Airlines Ventures, we're signalling our confidence in these companies and propelling them forward with our expertise and financial support to demonstrate that our commitment to innovation will strengthen our company and improve our customers' experience more quickly than anyone ever anticipated."

Alaska Airlines adds new flights to sun-filled spots......... additional service from San Francisco, Portland and Palm Springs to destinations across North America

Alaska Airlines is now offering several new nonstop routes to make it easier to escape to places known for wintertime sun and fun:

Just in time for the holidays, we'll begin weekly, seasonal service between San Francisco and Cancun on Dec. 16, offering our Bay Area guests a convenient way to get away to eastern Mexico.

We'll launch two new flights from Portland on Dec. 16 to Tampa and New Orleans – the only nonstops from the Rose City to these two Southern destinations. These routes are also seasonal service, each with several flights a week.

On Nov. 19, we'll say howdy to another new route connecting Palm Springs and Austin. It's the only nonstop flight between the heart of the Coachella Valley and the Texas capital with flights five times a week.

"Since March, our bookings for leisure travel have exceeded what they were before the pandemic. For many of our guests, there's an increased confidence that comes after being vaccinated. They were cooped up for well over a year – now they're ready to relax, enjoy and explore," said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances at Alaska Airlines. "With these new routes, we can whisk them away to destinations that have a warm sparkle in the wintertime."

Many of our guests are leisure travellers – heading to Hawaii for vacation, visiting family in Boston, maybe off to a soccer tournament with the kids in Los Angeles. They turn to us for low fares, great service and genuine hospitality. We offer West Coast-inspired fresh meals and beverages, hundreds of free TV shows and movies to watch on personal devices, upgraded satellite Wi-Fi on more of our aircraft and even free texting during flights.

Ryanair Flights to Europe Take Off From Belfast City Airport

Ryanair is back at Belfast City Airport and commenced its summer schedule which will connect passengers to Europe following the easing of travel restrictions in Northern Ireland.

 

Flights taking off this week to five destinations will allow passengers to enjoy the sun and fun in both Portugal and Spain, with flights to Italy to follow at the beginning of July.

 

Ryanair will operate up to 14 flights per week to Faro in Portugal, while passengers will be able to travel to Alicante, Malaga, and the popular Balearic island of Mallorca up to 14 times per week, as well as Barcelona up to ten times per week throughout the summer season.

Katy Best, Commercial Director at Belfast City Airport, said:  “With travel restrictions easing, we are seeing an increase in demand from passengers keen to return to flying and travelling internationally. Welcoming Ryanair’s first flights today is significant as it marks the start of a busy summer schedule from Belfast City Airport.”

 

Raisbeck Reaches Critical Milestone for New Drag Reduction System

Raisbeck Engineering, a leading provider of performance enhancement systems for business, commercial and military aircraft, is pleased to announce the successful completion of the company’s comprehensive pre-certification flight tests for its new Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) program, EPIC Caravan, a drag reduction system designed for the Cessna Caravan 208B. Completion of the comprehensive pre-certification flight tests marks a significant milestone and clears the way for STC approval which the company anticipates receiving in August. The system includes a composite Forward Cargo Pod Fairing and metal Dual Aft Body Strakes.

“We are in the final phase of pre-certification,” stated Hal Chrisman, President of Raisbeck Engineering. “We have completed over 131 flight hours and verified that EPIC Caravan is compliant with all of the required FAA Part 23 regulations. Our next step is to present company test results to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pending issuance of a Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) which we anticipate receiving by mid-June. The FAA TIA is an important step towards STC approval, in that it marks the final milestone before the FAA finds compliance of the new system to Part 23 regulations by its own flight tests.”

Restart of Travel and Air Traffic:

Airline Associations Demand Politicians to Implement a Consistent Approach throughout Europe

 

Appeal of more than ten BARs to both national and European policymakers

Coordinated procedures create trust

People must regain their right to mobility and travel

 

Across Europe, the national airline associations, the Boards of Airline Representatives (BARs), are advocating a fast and consistent approach regarding the restart of travel and air traffic within the EU and with third countries. The BARs involved are criticizing the current uncoordinated situation and point out that, from a technical point of view, the prerequisites for the necessary harmonization are already in place. Merely, the coordinated political decisions of ‘what and how’ are progressing very slowly.

 

Michael Hoppe, Secretary General of the Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG): “People have a right to mobility and freedom to travel. In view of the positive developments of vaccination campaigns and the enduring decrease of infection rates, basic rights and freedoms must now be returned to citizens on the basis of the EU Council of Ministers’ decision of May 27, 2021. However, the apparently uncoordinated and constantly changing approach of EU states with regard to travel regulations is once again leading to great dissatisfaction and uncertainty among European citizens. We call on politicians to implement harmonized, practicable regulations now. Mere words are insufficient. Action must be taken; the technology is ready.”

 

easyJet partner Wright Electric achieves new milestone with next-generation inverter technology for zero-emission aircraft

Wright Electric has demonstrated the first inverter system of its kind for large zero-emission aircraft, a key component in medium voltage aircraft electric systems

easyJet welcomes this important milestone for Wright Electric which is a crucial step on the path to zero emission commercial aircraft

The airline continues to work with Wright Electric and other partners to stimulate and accelerate the development of a zero-emission aircraft and is committed to transition to new technologies once available and viable

easyJet’s partner Wright Electric has revealed the latest milestone in its engine development programme which is working towards the development and certification of the first commercially viable, zero-emissions single-aisle aircraft. Wright has now demonstrated the first inverter system of its kind for large zero-emissions aircraft. 

Whether a future aeroplane is battery-electric or powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, an inverter is a key component in medium voltage aircraft electric systems. Its purpose is to convert the DC power from batteries to the AC power required by the propulsion system’s electric motors.

Designed to be scalable from 500 kW to 20 MW systems, the Wright inverter targets the following levels of performance:

Hopes Rise for Vaccinated Travelers in Europe, but Global Restart Still Stalled

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomed the relaxation of COVID-19 border measures for vaccinated passengers, and the broader use of affordable antigen testing adopted by Spain and France this week. This is tempered by ongoing disappointment at the failure to implement harmonized measures across Europe and deep frustration at the lack of coordination among governments worldwide for a data-driven risk-managed approach to re-establishing the freedom to travel.

As of 7 June, Spain opened its borders to most vaccinated travelers from around the world and allowed EU travelers to enter the country with a negative antigen test. Furthermore, passengers coming from low-risk countries (including the UK) can enter without any restrictions. 

 

From 9 June France opened to vaccinated travelers from all but those countries assessed as “high risk”. Vaccinated travelers from “medium-risk” countries will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test, and unvaccinated people must still self-isolate for seven days.

“It’s encouraging to see more European countries taking steps to reopen borders. They recognize the opportunity created by vaccination and are making travel more affordable with the use of antigen testing. But this approach is not universal across the continent. Many European states have yet to significantly relax borders at all. This fragmentation should be replaced with a unified approach that is consistent with the recommendations of the EU to which they belong. People, businesses and economies would all benefit from greater alignment across Europe in relaxing measures and restoring the freedom to travel,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

A consistent approach across Europe is required if the EU Digital COVID Certificate is to be implemented effectively by 1 July. And around the world, governments need to allow digital certificates to be integrated in passenger applications such as IATA Travel Pass, in order to relieve pressure on airports and at borders from more complex passenger processing as the number of travelers ramps up. 

IATA Urges a More Global Approach

These moves by Spain, France and other European states are a step in the right direction, but restoring global connectivity requires far more than regional or individual state initiatives. The G20 endorsed a data-driven approach to managing the risks of COVID-19 while re-opening borders. The upcoming G7 Leaders’ Summit on 11-13 June provides an important opportunity for these governments to use their leadership to kick-start a data-driven coordinated approach to re-establishing global air connectivity. 

“Connectivity needs countries at both ends of the journey to be open. Many of the world’s largest air travel markets, such Australia, China, the UK, Japan, and Canada remain essentially closed with no clear plans to guide a reopening. Data should help these and other countries to introduce targeted policies that keep populations safe while moving towards a normality in world with COVID-19 for some time to come. The G7 has an opportunity later this month to set a risk-managed framework for re-establishing the freedom to travel in a way that is both affordable and practical. It’s critical that they take up the challenge,” said Walsh.

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WestJet's Ed Sims to retire......

The Canadian airline WestJet announced this week that its President and CEO, Ed Sims, will retire at the end of 2021. In four years with WestJet, Mr Sims was responsible for the successful introduction of the company's Boeing 787 long-haul aircraft, the launch of two new airline ventures, the significant expansion of WestJet's international network, as well as the continued growth of WestJet Vacations, WestJet Cargo and the WestJet Rewards programme.

Ed Sims will remain as President and Chief Executive, as well as a member of the WestJet Group board of directors until December 2021. Moving forward, he will continue in a senior advisory role with Onex Partners focused on aerospace and aviation.

"I want to thank Ed for his contributions to WestJet's strategy and growth initiatives over the past four years," said Chris Burley, Chairman of WestJet's board of directors. "Ed has led WestJet through the worst crisis in aviation history and will see us through to the end of 2021. We owe our relative strength and stability in no small measure to Ed's leadership and steady hand. On a personal note, we're pleased that Ed will be able to rejoin his family in New Zealand at the end of the year."   

April Travel Demand a Tale of Two Markets: Domestic Recovery and International Stagnation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that domestic travel demand improved in April 2021 compared to the prior month, although it remained well below pre-pandemic levels, while recovery in international passenger travel continued to be stalled in the face of government-imposed travel restrictions. 

Because comparisons between 2021 and 2020 monthly results are distorted by the extraordinary impact of COVID-19, unless otherwise noted all comparisons are to April 2019, which followed a normal demand pattern.

 

Total demand for air travel in April 2021 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was down 65.4% compared to April 2019. That was an improvement over the 66.9% decline recorded in March 2021 versus March 2019. The better performance was driven by gains in most domestic markets.

 

International passenger demand in April was 87.3% below April 2019, little changed from the 87.8% decline recorded in March 2021 versus two years ago. 

 

Total domestic demand was down 25.7% versus pre-crisis levels (April 2019), much improved over March 2021, when domestic traffic was down 31.6% versus the 2019 period. As with March, all markets except Brazil and India showed improvement compared to March 2021, with both China and Russia reporting traffic growth compared to pre-COVID-19 levels. 

7Pines Resort Ibiza opens

Hyatt Hotels has confirmed the opening of 7Pines Resort Ibiza, a 185-all-suite luxury clifftop resort on one of the most popular spots on the White Island and offers amenities fit for any occasion.

The Destination by Hyatt brand is a diverse collection of luxury and upscale independent hotels, resorts and residences that are all individual at heart, yet connected by a commitment to embody the true spirit of each location. Every property is purposefully crafted to be a place of discovery through immersive experiences, authentic design and genuine service.

“At 7Pines Resort Ibiza, we pride ourselves on offering guests a laid-back style of luxury and creating an idyllic sanctuary for the whole family to enjoy,” said Carlos Fritz, general manager of 7Pines Resort Ibiza. “After a year of restrictions on travel, we cannot wait to welcome guests once again and make their stay truly memorable and reflective of the Ibizan spirit.”

7Pines Resort Ibiza is situated in a prime location on the rugged cliffs of the west coast of Ibiza and nestled on the edge of a pine forest. The resort is purposefully crafted as a place of immersive discoveries, offering the height of laid-back luxury and Ibizan flair. Whether it is the spectacular view on the mystical rock island of Es Vedrà or the characteristic pine forests enveloping the resort, the hotel is the perfect destination to unwind and soak up the unique atmosphere of Ibiza.

CellPoint Digital to disrupt payments in new sectors following outstanding success with Airlines

CellPoint Digital to disrupt payments in new sectors following outstanding success with Airlines

Payment orchestration leader will boost digital revenues in retail, online gaming, online education and entertainment & media.

 CellPoint Digital, a fintech leader in payment orchestration for travel, today announces it is now offering its market leading platform to new markets, including retail, online gaming, online education, and entertainment & media to boost digital revenues through an optimised payment service.

CellPoint Digital will capitalise on increased demand for payment orchestration from these verticals by partnering with rapidly expanding brands to deliver better, more frictionless payment experiences for customers through its Velocity Payment Orchestration Platform. The platform is uniquely suited to address the changing needs of modern merchants, allowing for dynamic transaction routing to reduce costs and minimise rejection rates, and offering access to a global payment eco-system of about 500 payment options, including acquirers, Payment Service Providers and payment methods through a single integration point. As retail, online gaming and education or content streaming markets continue to develop, CellPoint Digital aims to export these efficiencies to these new sectors. On average, this means merchants can expect 10% increased digital revenue, 20% decreased payment costs and 75% faster time to market to roll-out a new payment method or feature.

Dutch charter company Hyer brings the jet sharing model to London

The shared flight model offers more people access to the benefits of private aviation for a fraction of the price on carbon-neutral flights.

                      Dutch-based aircraft charter broker Hyer has launched its jet sharing concept in London. After using a similar formula to support the repatriation of stranded passengers last year, the company is bringing the same model to the leisure market.

The concept works like an extra-comfortable UberPool with wings. Passengers can initiate their own flight or join flights proposed by others. This allows them to fly on private aircraft for a fraction of the cost while offsetting the carbon emission of their flights. From London, routes are available to some of Britain's favourite holiday destinations such as Ibiza, Cannes, and Amsterdam.

With countries in Europe easing travel restrictions, holidaymakers have begun thinking about travelling safely. However, due to safety measures implemented by the airports, more time is required from travellers when flying. Waiting times in April at London Heathrow airport were "well in excess of two hours and up to six hours," according to Heathrow's Chief Solutions Officer, Chris Garton.