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

18 September, 2021

American Airlines Hispanic Heritage Month: A familia affair

Hispanic Heritage Month: A familia affair

As a child growing up in New York City, Ed Minaya dreamt of a career in law enforcement. After moving to the Dominican Republic in elementary school, Ed’s dreams quickly shifted, but he hoped to one day return to the United States. In 1990, while driving through Santo Domingo, a radio ad caught his attention, announcing that American Airlines was hiring at Las Americas International Airport (SDQ). Ed knew that this job would not only give him the opportunity to serve others, but it would also offer him wings. That radio ad altered the course of his and his family’s story forever.

Ed soon joined American as a Customer Service Agent at SDQ, and his twin sister Hilda quickly followed suit. During his more than 30-year career with American, Ed has held a number of roles at the airline, most recently as a Customer Care Manager at Miami International Airport (MIA). At MIA, he works alongside Hilda and his wife Elizabeth Helver, both Premium Guest Service Representatives, as well as his brother-in-law Ariel Helver, a Facilities Maintenance Mechanic. For the Minayas, working at American is a familia affair.

Icelandair traffic data August 2021



During August, Icelandair saw its number of international passengers and the total capacity increased significantly when compared to August 2020.

The total number of passengers on international flights was over 264,000 compared to around 80,000 in August 2020. Thereof, the total number of passengers on international flights was around 241,000 compared to 67,000 in August 2020 and 195,000 in July 2021. The number of passengers to Iceland was around 145,000 compared to 53,000 in August 2020. The number of passengers from Iceland was around 24,000 compared to 13,000 in August 2020. VIA passengers were 72,000 compared to 1,300 in August 2020 and 51,000 in July 2021. On time performance was 87%.

The load factor on international flights was 71.7% compared to 67.7% in August 2020. It improved from 70.4% in July 2021 despite the rise of the Delta variant in Iceland and in the Company’s key international markets which impacted passenger numbers in August.

The number of passengers on domestic flights was around 22,700 compared to 12,400 in August 2020 and around 24,000 in July 2021.

The number of sold block hours in charter flights increased by 61% compared to August 2020. Freight measured in Freight Tonne Kilometres, increased by 39% compared to August 2020 and has increased by 21% year-on-year during the first eight months of 2021.

Mammoth Freighters Launches Boeing 777-200LR and 777-300ER Freighter Conversion Programs


Mammoth Freighters has launched its Boeing 777-200LR and 777-300ER passenger-to-freighter conversion programme this week. The firm was founded in December 2020 by two highly experienced aviation industry executives, Bill Wagner and Bill Tarpley, both serving as the company’s Co-CEOs. The Company is backed by private investment funds managed by Fortress Investment Group LLC and its affiliates (Fortress). The combination of management expertise and strong financial support has enabled Mammoth to launch its Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) development program with the plan to achieve FAA approval in the second half of 2023.

Mammoth brings a flexible business model to market that provides air cargo operators and asset owners dynamic new options including the ability to provide their own assets for conversion or acquire or lease ready-to-fly converted freighters from Mammoth’s existing feedstock of ten 777-200LR GE90-110B1 equipped aircraft. These assets were acquired from Delta Air Lines and are the largest fleet of -200LR sister aircraft in the world.

The Company, which possesses a Boeing data license to execute 777 passenger-to-freighter conversions, has already made significant progress since it began operations in late 2020. Design and engineering for the 777-200LRMF program is well underway with tooling and parts already in fabrication. The conformity 777-200LR recently completed a comprehensive series of pre-modification flight tests and will commence modification in the second quarter of 2022. Upon certification of the 777-200LRMF, Mammoth expects approval of the 777-300ERMF STC to follow shortly afterwards.

Atlas Air and DHL Express Extend Agreements for 20 Freighters

Atlas Air, Inc. confirmed this week that it has entered into contract extensions with DHL Express to continue operating 20 freighter aircraft in support of their fast-growing express and e-commerce markets.

These agreements build on the long-standing strategic partnership between Atlas Air Worldwide and DHL, which began in 2008 and included DHL acquiring 49% of AAWW’s subsidiary, Polar Air Cargo, as well as a long-term agreement for six dedicated 747-400Fs to operate on key Trans-Pacific routes.  

The partnership has grown significantly over the years, and under these extended agreements, Atlas Air will continue to operate four different aircraft platforms for DHL Express, including:

Six Boeing 747-8 freighters
Two Boeing 747-400 freighters
Eight Boeing 777-200 freighters
Four Boeing 767-300 freighters

“DHL Express is a global leader in express and e-commerce, and it is our privilege to contribute to their continued success,” said John W. Dietrich, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Air Worldwide. “These agreements build on our successful 13-year partnership. We look forward to continuing to provide DHL Express with critical capacity through our modern, fuel-efficient fleet. As this agreement indicates, Atlas is capitalizing on the strong global airfreight market conditions as we deepen relationships with our customers.”

“We are pleased to extend our long-standing and valued partnership with Atlas Air,” said Rob Hyslop, Executive Vice President Aviation at DHL Express. “Continuing to utilize Atlas and its global operating capabilities enables us to best serve our customers and their continued high demand for fast international shipping, fueled by the megatrend of e-commerce and the overall importance of global trade.”





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Bombardier introduces the New Challenger 3500 aircraft

  • New aircraft offers innovative technology features from cockpit to cabin that further define Challenger’s leadership status
  • Fully redesigned Challenger 3500 aircraft cabin introduces Bombardier’s revolutionary Nuage seat and has a lower cabin altitude
  • Newest member of the renowned Challenger family is designed through a sustainable lens in line with Bombardier’s environmental objectives
  • Entry-into-service is expected in the second half of 2022

The Canadian firm Bombardier has released details of the new sustainably designed Challenger 3500 aircraft. The latest evolution of Bombardier’s hugely successful Challenger platform was unveiled at a worldwide virtual launch.


 
The next-generation Challenger 3500 aircraft, the evolution of the Challenger 350 aircraft, introduces a redesigned interior with intelligent and sustainably minded cabin features crafted to combine comfort with function. Further elevating the passenger experience, Bombardier’s exclusive and patented Nuage seat is included in the aircraft’s standard configuration – the first time a seat of this calibre is available in the super mid-size segment. As part of an overall focus on passenger wellness, this new business jet will provide a reduced cabin altitude of 4,850 ft at 41,000 ft, representing a 31% improvement compared to its predecessor.

GA-ASI SeaGuardian flies first approved point-to-point UAS flight in UK

SeaGuardian flew from Royal Air Force (RAF) Waddington to RAF Lossiemouth and the SeaGuardian flight was controlled by NATS, the UK's civilian Air Navigation Service Provider.








The UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for the first time approved a point-to-point domestic flight of an unmanned aircraft that utilized the UK's airways structure when General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew its MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from Lincolnshire, England, to Moray, Scotland, on Sept. 12, 2021. The GA-ASI-owned RPA flew from Royal Air Force (RAF) Waddington to RAF Lossiemouth and the SeaGuardian flight was controlled by NATS, the UK's civilian Air Navigation Service Provider.

"The Airspace Coordination Notice issued by the CAA for this series of demonstration flights in UK airspace is the largest and most meticulous we have ever produced so that the airspace integration of SeaGuardian is at the highest level of safety," said Tom Gratton, CAA Airspace Regulator.

"We appreciate the cooperation and collaboration with the CAA and NATS in helping to move the industry forward," said GA-ASI Vice President of International Strategic Development Robert Schoeffling. "This successful flight paves the way not only for future operations of Protector in UK airspace, but also for other civil and commercial UAS flights."

Southwest expands operations at Austin



With the population of Texas’ capital city continuing to grow, the U.S. budget carrier Southwest is introducing more services than ever before in central Texas. The low-fare airline plans to increase service on March 10, 2022, by more than 20 flights a day with nonstop service between Austin and nine new and returning destinations, as well as add additional frequencies on routes already served from the capital of Texas. In total, Southwest now will offer nonstop service between Austin and 46 destinations on up to 105 departures a day.

New Destinations

Beginning March 10, 2022, Southwest’s schedule includes daily nonstop service between:

Austin and Amarillo, Texas
Austin and Charleston, S.C.
Austin and Columbus, Ohio (will also operate during peak holiday travel periods in 2021)
Austin and Midland/Odessa, Texas (previously flown nonstop in 2009)
Austin and Ontario, Calif.

More Beaches, Please

On March 12, 2022, Southwest plans to start new international service between Austin and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, subject to requisite government approvals. The same day, seasonal weekly flights are scheduled to return on Saturdays between:

Austin and Panama City Beach, Fla.
Austin and Sarasota/Bradenton
Austin and Destin/Fort Walton Beach

“We’re celebrating a growing Customer base in Central Texas with this major investment designed specifically for Austin’s business and leisure travelers,” said Dave Harvey, Southwest’s Vice President of Southwest Business. “As we continue to strengthen our network in Austin, Customers will see more flights on key routes as well as new destinations across our map, while enjoying Southwest’s world-famous Hospitality.”

This week also marks a major milestone for Southwest Airlines and the Austin community. The airline first began serving Austin on Sept. 15, 1977.





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"Moonlight Infusions" from VistaJet

VistaJet, has introduced a new product called Moonlight Infusions, which, for a limited time, clients are invited to celebrate the festival on board with a bespoke tea and mooncake pairing session, as well as a personalized Tea Flight Experience while basking in the beauty of the moon.

Available from now throughout September 2021 for those departing from key Asian cities, Moonlight Infusions showcases highlights from VistaJet’s tea collection, including Red Dragon tea, Dragon Well, Iron Buddha, Vintage Imperial Puerh, decaffeinated Blackcurrant & Hibiscus, and Whole Leaf Peppermint.

Clients will appreciate the teas with thoughtfully paired premium mooncakes*. For example, Red Dragon is a unique black tea with an enticing fruity flavor and creamy note of chocolate, making a perfect combination when paired with a dense, rich red bean mooncake.

The bespoke Tea Flight Experience is also available upon request to VistaJet clients both on board and on the ground, guided virtually by tea masters who will take clients on an immersive journey through the world of tea and bring to life their signature varieties.

17 September, 2021

Major changes to England's travel traffic light system

The UK's Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced major changes to England's international travel traffic light system to start taking effect from early October. 

From 0400 on Monday 4 October, the amber and green lists will be merged into one list, so we'll only have the open gree list and the red list. Anyone who is fully vaccinated will no longer have to take a PCR test before travelling back to England from green listed countries.

Whilst PCR tests will still need to be done two days after arrival, the rules will be relaxed later in October when the authorities will allow the much cheaper, simpler and faster lateral flow tests. 

But, it's bad news, if you haven't been had both doses of the vaccination as you'll be required to take a pre-departure test plus you, will need a PCR test on the second and eighth days after arrival in to England.  People will be required to self-isolate for 10 days if returning from a non-red list country.

The government also said that more vaccine apps from other countries would be accepted as long as the vaccine was a UK acceptable one. 

Whilst the changes were warmly welcomed by most in the travel industry,  MAG boss Charlie Cornish continued his government bashing stance,  "For many months, the recovery of UK aviation has lagged behind the rest of Europe" he said and continued to moan, "For as long as vaccinated travellers have to pay for tests, the recovery of one of the UK’s major industries will be held back.

The Government must now find a way to give people back the freedom to travel without the barrier of testing."

Grant Shapps said: "Today's changes mean a simpler, more straightforward system. One with less testing and lower costs, allowing more people to travel, see loved ones or conduct business around the world while providing a boost for the travel industry.

Public health has always been at the heart of our international travel policy and with over 44 million people fully vaccinated in the UK, we are now able to introduce a proportionate updated structure that reflects the new landscape."

Health Secretary Sajid Javid commented, "Today we have simplified the travel rules to make them easier to understand and follow, opening up tourism and reducing the costs to go abroad."

easyJet's Johan Lundgren wasn't satisfied with the new rules, "Vaccinated travellers and those from low-risk countries will still have to do an unnecessary test after arriving in the UK, making travel less affordable for all."

The British Airways boss also wasn't pleased with the announcement,  Sean Doyle said he wanted the government to go further and drop all tests for all vaccinated people arriving from anywhere.




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Park Hyatt Toronto Officially Reopens its Doors

The restored hotel debuts new interiors from Studio Munge, luxury guestrooms, a new world-class restaurant and a rooftop lounge


Hyatt Hotels and Oxford Properties are pleased to open its doors to the highly anticipated, restored Park Hyatt Toronto hotel. Long considered one of Toronto's most iconic addresses, the property offers deeply personalized and engaged service as the cornerstone of the hotel’s revival.

The re-imagined Park Hyatt Toronto hotel combines luxury, sophistication, and glamour with a distinctive nod to Canadian heritage, art deco, and literature. The hotel collaborated with world-renowned designer Alessandro Munge of Studio Munge, who drew inspiration from Canada's striking seasons and natural landscapes to bring this experience to life. The luxurious property offers an elevated home-away-from-home experience with purpose and style through modern materials and soothing colour schemes.

“We are proud to welcome guests to the restored Park Hyatt Toronto hotel, with exceptional personalized service at the heart of every touchpoint,” says Bonnie Strome, general manager, Park Hyatt Toronto. “The remarkable transformation was thoughtfully crafted to provide unparalleled luxury experiences across culinary, arts and culture, travel and design.”

Rooted in celebrating the sophistication of the arts, Park Hyatt Toronto features a significant permanent art collection highlighting spectacular pieces from renowned Canadian and indigenous artists. A new public art sculpture “Rendezvous” by renowned Canadian artist An Te Liu, forms a vivid and iconic tableau establishing the hotel as a singular destination. “Dead Ringers”, a large-scale tapestry in the lobby by Canadian artist Shannon Bool, sets the tone for each guest's enriched and immersive stay.

Finnair offering a refreshed yet reduced onboard meal menu

The world is opening and Finnair is ramping up its services to offer passengers a pleasant travel experience.

Choice and flexibility, health and safety and sustainability are at the core of the Helsinki based airline's services. Following the introduction of its new ticket types, the carrier has refreshed the meal and drink service onboard all flights. The is also bringing back its popular Nordic Kitchen onboard menu.

On all flights, Finnair offers its complementary core product which can then be enhanced with a wide selection of travel extras, like snacks and drinks from the Nordic Kitchen pre-order or onboard menu. For any special diets, the airline has a wide variety of options that suit different health, dietary, religious and nutritional requirements.

Finnair has refreshed the menus both in Business and Economy Class on intercontinental and European flights.

In Business Class, on intercontinental flights, you'll be served a delightful main meal service accompanied with a lighter second service, snacks and refreshments – along with a matching beverage and wine selection. The menu highlights both Nordic and destination flavours and is designed with simplicity and sustainability at heart.

Harry Taylor named as interim President and CEO of WestJet

Harry Taylor has been named the new interim role of President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Canadian airline WestJet, the group confirmed this week. The current CEO Ed Sims announced his retirement on June 9, 2021 and will hand over the control in late November.  

"I am extremely pleased Harry has agreed to take on this interim role," said the WestJet Group Board Chair Chris Burley. "Our global search for a permanent CEO continues, and on behalf of WestJet and the board, we are grateful Harry has stepped up to help us through this critical transition. Harry has been an integral part of our pandemic planning and recovery, and it is his painstaking attention to our finances and his unique perspective that helped us through. As we continue to navigate our way through the remainder of the pandemic, Harry's experience in the industry, combined with his deep appreciation and understanding of the WestJet culture will be a tremendous asset as we work to rebuild our airline and deliver on the five-year plan for our people and our guests."

"It is a tremendous honour to be asked to serve as interim CEO for the WestJet Group, and I look forward to leading our organization through this crucial phase of our recovery," said Harry Taylor. "There is much work to be done, while we continue our search for a permanent CEO. I am confident my experience as CFO through this crisis, combined with my tenure at WestJet, will set us up for success until such time as we welcome our new CEO."

16 September, 2021

Europcar Brazil Places Order for 50 Skyworks Aeronautics eGyro™ Electric Aircraft

 Europcar Brazil announced plans to purchase 50 eGyro™ electrically powered vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Skyworks Aeronautics (“Skyworks”) for use in Brazil, the world’s fourth-largest market for civil helicopters after the U.S., Russia and Canada. Europcar is the world’s third-largest rental car company and leading mobility provider.

“Europcar Brazil is extremely excited to partner with Skyworks Aeronautics to bring safe, efficient, and cost-effective electric aircraft solutions to Brazil,” stated Paulo Gaba, Chief Executive Officer of the Autotur Group, the Europcar franchisee for Brazil. “This initial order for Skyworks’ revolutionary eGyro reflects our understanding that though aviation certainly connects the world in important ways, we have an opportunity to deliver new, sustainable mobility capabilities that create immense value for consumers while better caring for our planet. The offer of eGyros will complete our range of possibilities as a global mobility provider,” Gaba added.

“Skyworks Aeronautics has been developing manned and unmanned vertical lift gyroplane technologies for more than two decades, providing sustained autorotative flight capabilities that enable aircraft to be both runway independent and economical, and without the physics-imposed speed, range, and payload limitations of a helicopter,” added Jack Carter, Skyworks Director. “This exciting partnership with Europcar Brazil highlights the promise of our electrified gyrocraft to expand their already extraordinary service capabilities to serve current and future markets in new, safe and exciting ways,” Carter added.

Volocopter Partners with Urban Movement Labs of Los Angeles

Volocopter, the pioneer of urban air mobility (UAM), announced that it has partnered with Los Angeles-based Urban Movement Labs (UML) to explore the application of Volocopter's UAM solutions in the Los Angeles area. As part of Volocopter's US campaign, the company will also be present at CoMotion LA from 16-18 November 2021 for the public to learn more about this new mode of urban transportation.

UAM is a subcategory of advanced air mobility (AAM) that focuses on how advanced aircraft operate in and around cities. Today, Volocopter is developing its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to provide commercial transportation services for passengers and goods – 100% electric and emission-free in flight. This mobility service will be positioned to support existing transport options, introduce new local employment opportunities, and provide point-to-point connections at costs similar to taxi fares.

American Airlines and GOL to form an exclusive partnership to create best network and loyalty programme across the Americas

Carriers have entered into an exclusive codeshare agreement that will deepen their partnership and strengthen the largest network between the U.S. and Brazil.
American’s AAdvantage and GOL’s SMILES loyalty programs will create the largest joint frequent flyer program in the Americas with enhanced benefits coming in 2022.
Increased commercial cooperation will drive sustainable growth, including more flights to more destinations for both airlines.



American Airlines announced that it has entered into a letter of intent to further solidify its partnership with GOL, Brazil’s largest airline. Building on the two carriers’ initial codeshare offering in 2020, the expanded partnership includes an exclusive codeshare agreement, a larger and more lucrative joint SMILES and AAdvantage® loyalty program partnership. It also expects to increase commercial cooperation with GOL to accelerate growth and create a more seamless experience for all customers.

“American has long been the leading U.S. carrier to South America and our stronger partnership with GOL solidifies that leadership position,” said Robert Isom, President of American Airlines. “Our long-haul network marries seamlessly with GOL’s strong domestic network in Brazil. Together, we will be able to offer customers flying to, through and from Brazil, access to the largest network with the lowest fares and the Americas’ biggest and best joint travel loyalty program.”

Exclusive Codeshare between the U.S. and Brazil
GOL will become American’s sole codeshare partner in Brazil and American will become GOL’s sole codeshare partner in the U.S. On their combined networks, customers can travel to more than 30 destinations served by American in the U.S. and more than 20 new destinations in South America served by GOL.

“This codeshare agreement between two of the leading airlines in the Americas combines our highly complementary route networks to offer customers a seamless travel experience with the largest number of flights and destinations in North and South America,” said GOL CEO Paulo Kakinoff. “We believe that this will bolster GOL’s presence in international markets, accelerate our long-term growth, and maximize value for our shareholders. It adds to our confidence in GOL’s growth as the economy reopens and travel demand increases.”

Iberia Returns to the Maldives and Cali This Winter Season


  • Two weekly flights to Male from December through February, and three weekly flights to Cali, from December throught March.
  • In Spain, the Madrid-Barcelona shuttle is experiencing the fastest growth, with 68 flights operating weekly –up to 11 flights per day in each direction.
  • Iberia is also expecting continued domestic demand growth, especially in business travel, between Madrid and Bilbao, La Coruña, and Vigo, and is scheduling four daily return flights to all three cities. Capacity will also be increased on flights to Asturias, San Sebastián and Santander
  • In European flights Iberia is boosting Madrid-Paris services to as many as seven daily flights in each direction, reaching both Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports). It is already operating five daily return flights to London, while increasing capacity to LisbonOportoFrankfurtBrusselsGenevaMilanRomeZurichDüsseldorf, Munich, Venice, Lyon, and Marseilles.
  • In total, this winter Iberia will fly to 23 long-haul destinations in 17 countries, with nearly 280 flights per week.
  • Iberia’s fastest-growing markets in Latin America are Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia, and it is also adding flights to Central America and Uruguay.
  • In the United States, Iberia is increasing its services to New York and Miami to 10 flights per week, while continuing to fly to  ChicagoBoston, and Los Angeles.
  • Meanwhile, the airline has just extended its promotional fares campaign until 22 September.

 

In the winter season that begins on 31 October, Iberia is expecting the continued recovery of passenger traffic, while contributing to it with promotional fares, and adding destinations and flight frequencies.

After its summer success, Iberia’s new Maldives Islands destination will be maintained throught the winter, with two direct return flights per week from December through February.

In December-March the airline will fly three times per week to Cali,  Colombia, which was a popular destination this summer.


The Madrid-Barcelona Shuttle Takes Off

Domestic air travel in Spain is showing a strong recovery in general, and flight frequencies to all destinations are being increased.

In September Iberia raised capacity by 32% on its Madrid-Barcelona shuttle service, the Puente Aéreo (“Air Bridge”). Further increases this winter will take it to 69 flights per week, or up to 11 daily return flights.

The airline is also increasing frequencies this winter to up to five flights per week from Madrid to La CoruñaBilbao, and Vigo, while it will fly twice daily to San Sebastián and to Santander, and make up to three daily flights to Asturias.

 

Business Travel in Europe

To attract and accommodate business travellers. Iberia is increasing connectivity to key European cities, facilitating same-day return flights.

This winter Iberia will operate up to seven flights per day from Madrid to Paris, including both Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports. It is now flying five times a week to London, while increasing frequencies to Lisbon, Oporto, Frankfurt, Brussels, Geneva, Milan, Rome, Zurich, Düsseldorf, Munich, Venice, Lyon, and Marseilles, with up to three daily flights.

 

Long-haul Operations also Recovering

This winter Iberia will continue to fly to its new destination in the Maldives –following this summer’s success– and to Cali, Colombia, In total its will serve 23 cities in 17 countries in the Americas, plus the Maldives, operating some 280 long-haul flights weekly from  Madrid.

 

15 September, 2021

SalamAir takes delivery of first of two A321NX from GECAS

GECAS announces the delivery of the first of two A321NX aircraft to SalamAir with the arrival of one, MSN 10483, into Muscat, Oman from Hamburg. As announced in late 2019, GECAS is providing the two aircraft from its own skyline.



SalamAir is the first operator of A320neo aircraft in Oman.  With a current fleet of six A320neos, the operator’s presence has grown to touch over 84 airports, in 35 countries. Based in Oman’s Muscat International Airport, SalamAir is now among the first to operate the A321neo in the Middle East.

“GECAS is pleased to deliver our first aircraft with SalamAir, one of the fastest growing low-cost carriers in the Middle East. These CFM LEAP-powered aircraft will assist in their expansion into locations in Asia and Europe,” shared Michael O’Mahony, GECAS’ SVP & Region Manager.

“SalamAir is dedicated to meeting Oman’s increasing demand for affordable travel options while providing a comfortable, flexible and reliable experience and a full range of services for our passengers,” Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, said, adding “The longer range of the A321NX and additional 32 seats; enables us to continue offering travel to add new destinations and increase capacity on existing routes with more direct links between the Sultanate and friendly countries.”


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Exeter to Belfast flights extended to 2022

British Airways has extended its service from Exeter Airport to Belfast City Airport to March next year, the airline has confirmed.

The flights had been due to finish at the end of October but have been extended to March 25, 2022 and are bookable now.

The announcement is further good news for Exeter Airport which continues to grow its route network following the impact of the pandemic and the closure of regional airline Flybe in 2020.

Exeter Airport has 28 UK and international destinations for 2021/22, which is more than three-quarters of what it had in early 2020.

Already this month the airport has seen flights re-start to Rhodes and Paphos, Cyprus, and year-round flights to Lanzarote, together with flights to Majorca which recommenced in July, all with TUI.

Ryanair meanwhile operates year-round flights from Exeter to Alicante and Malaga, which re-started in June.

The Belfast service will continue to operate up to four days a week with one-way prices from just £39 and a flight time of just over an hour.  Top 5 things to do in Belfast

Leadership changes at U.S. budget airline Southwest

Tom Nealon, 60, has decided to retire from his duties as President effective immediately but will continue to serve the Company as a strategic advisor, focusing primarily on the airline's environmental sustainability and carbon emissions reduction plan. Nealon has held numerous leadership positions during his tenure with the airline, including Executive Vice President Strategy & Innovation from 2016 to 2017, Director on the Southwest Board from 2010 to 2015, and in a consultant capacity as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer from 2002 to 2006. 

"I'm honored to have served Southwest throughout the years in several different capacities, and especially to have been President of the best airline in the business," Nealon said. "I look forward to continuing to serve and advise Southwest on strategic initiatives, and most importantly, on the airline's long-term environmental sustainability plans."

Gary Kelly, Southwest's Chairman and CEO, announced on behalf of the Southwest Airlines Board of Directors that Chief Operating Officer Mike Van de Ven, 59, has been named as the Company's President, effective immediately. Van de Ven will take on the additional responsibilities of the Company's Internal Audit, Business Continuity, Emergency Response, and Enterprise Risk Management functions.

Eclipse Air Charter expands client base as travellers turn to charter flights for peace of mind

Private aircraft charter company Eclipse Air Charter has enjoyed steady growth in 2021, attracting new clients looking for one-way flights to warm-weather destinations, and reliable, on-demand travel in uncertain times.

Particularly in Europe, where recent sudden changes or cancellations in airline services have thrown travel plans into chaos, Eclipse's brand of personalized, on-demand service and internationally recognized ARGUS Rated Charter Broker status presents a reliable and welcome alternative for clients wary of last-minute complications.

According to reports from aviation industry research company WingX, European business jet travel is up 25% in August compared to pre-pandemic August 2019. Surprisingly, even as more governments lift their pandemic-related travel restrictions, this industry trend shows no sign of slowing, suggesting that what travellers want above all else in 2021 is peace of mind. That and a warm locale in which to wait out the ongoing global malaise—Eclipse has seen a marked increase in the number of bookings to summer-climate destinations like Miami and Scottsdale in the U.S., Bahamas and Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean, and Nice and Mykonos in Europe. 

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