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

26 May, 2022

Delta names its first Chief Digital Officer as company accelerates digital enhancements, investments

Delta has named Eric Phillips S.V.P. and Chief Digital Officer as the airline continues to deliver more personalized, seamless, and premium experiences for customers through its digital channels.

In the newly created role, Phillips will lead a matrixed team focused on enhancing customer interactions with Delta’s digital tools and channels, including developing new and better capabilities on Delta.com and the Fly Delta app to address customer needs before, during and after travel. He’ll partner with leaders across the enterprise to accelerate cross-functional initiatives and drive a multidisciplinary approach to deliver an unparalleled customer experience.

Delta continues to innovate and improve digital tools that put the power of flexibility, control and simplicity at the core of the travel experience. From new self-service options to an ever-improving Fly Delta app experience, Delta’s digital teams are bringing seamless travel to life in more ways than ever.

 Phillips served most recently as S.V.P. - Airport Customer Service, Cargo Operations, GSE and Global Clean. In his 24 years with the company, he’s also held leadership roles in Pricing and Revenue Management.

Erik Snell will become S.V.P. - Airport Customer Service, Cargo Operations, GSE and Global Clean, where he’ll lead Delta’s largest frontline operating team. Snell had been the company’s S.V.P. - Operations & Customer Center, Operations Analytics, and Delta Connection since 2018 with responsibility for Delta’s worldwide operations. His 17-year career includes roles in Finance, ACS, Delta Connection, TechOps and former Delta subsidiaries Delta Global Services and Delta Private Jets.



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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Los Angeles return for Austrian Airlines.....



Austrian Airlines red and white planes are back in Los Angeles as the carrier rebuilds its route network, initially, the red flag carrier offers five weekly flights. 

Starting in July, the airline will offer six weekly connections on Boeing 777 aircraft linking Vienna with the City of Angels. The carrier will fly the 9.900km distance in around 12 and half hours for the rest of its summer timetable, until the middle of October. 

“With Chicago, Washington and two airports in New York, we are already very well represented in the East of the USA. We are very happy to offer non-stop flights to the west coast again with our route to Los Angeles”, says Austrian Airlines CCO Michael Trestl. “The million-strong metropolis of Los Angeles is a popular holiday destination for many Austrians and hub for connections with our partners. With our new destination, we are expecting a balanced amount of local and transfer passengers, who will connect in Vienna.” 

Julian Jäger, Joint CEO and COO of Vienna Airport, adds: “Directly from Vienna to the popular Hollywood metropolis: Los Angeles is a great city and the perfect starting point to travel the West Coast of the USA. Flights to the United States are generally very popular and I am pleased that after two years of pandemic, the flight schedule is now being expanded again to include five frequencies per week to Los Angeles in addition to New York, Newark, Chicago and Washington.” 

 Flights in detail:

route                                 flight number   flight days                            departure – arrival (local time)
Vienna – Los Angeles      OS 081            Mo, Tue, We*, Thu, Fr, Sa   09:55 – 13:25
Los Angeles – Vienna      OS 082            Mo, Tue, We*, Thu, Fr, Sa   15:15 – 11:50 (on the next day)

*We: additional sixth connection between the beginning of July and the end of September




Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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UK and Middle Eastern connections further bolstered as Gulf Air start direct route between Bahrain and Manchester Airport


The UK's links to the Middle East will get even stronger as direct flights launch between Bahrain and Manchester from Wednesday 1st June.

With two flights a week the route is a boost for businesses, tourism organisations, universities and those visiting friends and family.

Currently, 28,000 people from across Manchester Airport’s vast catchment area travel indirectly to Bahrain, these are a mix of those visiting family and friends and businesses that trade in the Middle East. A further 2,000,000 people from across the North travel to a range of Gulf Air’s onward destinations that are not currently served by Manchester Airport, so the route will also be beneficial to those wanting to access places like Bangkok, Mumbai and Delhi to name a few.

Ian Costigan, Interim Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said: “It’s great news that Gulf Air is starting direct flights from Manchester Airport, and I am sure it will be incredibly well received by the thousands of people in our catchment area that travel there indirectly each year.

The announcement of a third long-haul route coming to Manchester within the last month clearly shows the role we play in connecting the North to key global destinations. Not only do routes like these make travel easier, but they put the region on the international map for trade, economic and tourism opportunities, plus create a wealth of jobs in the process.

I look forward to welcoming the team from Gulf Air to the airport and wish them every success with the route.”

Gulf Air’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Captain Waleed AlAlawi said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of our Bahrain–Manchester direct route as part of the historic Bahraini–UK official and commercial relations. Manchester has been on our horizon for a while due to our customers’ demand; and as travel bounces back to normalcy, we knew it was the right time to launch it for our valued passengers. We are certain this new and exciting destination will further strengthen our network in the UK and Europe, and we look forward to serving our passengers to and from Manchester.”

Sheona Southern, Managing Director of Marketing Manchester, said: “We’re delighted to see this brand-new twice weekly flight from Bahrain to Manchester Airport being added to the route network. Routes old and new are rapidly returning at Manchester Airport, proving that the demand for international travel and tourism is back, and we look forward to offering a warm welcome to visitors from the GCC region who will be arriving with Gulf Air from 1 June.

Henri Murison, director of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said “This investment from Gulf Air is a huge vote of confidence is our region and cements Manchester Airport’s status as the gateway to the Northern Powerhouse. Better connectivity between the north and the Middle East is vital for bolstering trade, investment and tourism, delivering a huge economic boost and creating more jobs.”

Tim Newns, Chief Executive of MIDAS, Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency said “Providing a direct route between Greater Manchester and Bahrain presents an excellent opportunity for trade and developing strong partnerships. In the last five years we’ve seen a steady rise in interest from businesses in the GCC region and this increased connectivity will help us to enhance market opportunities and mutual knowledge exchange.”

The route will be served by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with economy and business class cabins. Return economy flights start from £613 and business class from £3,159.


Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, commenced operations in 1950, becoming one of the first commercial airlines established in the Middle East. The airline operates scheduled flights from its hub at Bahrain International Airport to cities in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Indian sub-continent and the Far East.

The airline currently serves all its destinations with a combination of wide and narrow-body fleet of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Renowned for its traditional Arabian hospitality, evidenced by the airline’s signature family and business friendly products, Gulf Air is committed to being an industry leader and developing products and services that reflect the evolving needs and aspirations of its passengers.

Gulf Air connects Bahrain to the world and, as such, is a key national infrastructure asset, serving as a powerful driver for the economy and supporting the Kingdom’s on-going economic growth.

Gulf Air is rated Five Star Major Official Airline by APEX, a rating programme that is based solely on certified passengers’ feedback. This milestone for Gulf Air is a testament to the success of its boutique strategy and the ongoing enhancements to its products and services. Visit www.gulfair.com  to learn more.


 



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Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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Jobs and passengers at the heart of government’s 10-point plan for aviation

New strategy launches to build an innovative and sustainable aviation sector.

Consumers, jobs and innovation are at the heart of the government’s new strategy for building the aviation sector of tomorrow.

Launched by Aviation Minister Robert Courts during a visit to Heathrow Airport, Flightpath to the future aims to rebuild consumer confidence, build back sustainably from the pandemic, support jobs across the country and build a skilled and diverse workforce that’s fit for the future. 

The delivery of the new 10-point plan will be supported by an all-new Aviation Council made up of airlines, airports and wider representatives from the aviation sector, as well as ministers and officials from both the UK government and devolved administrations.

The council will work to use the lessons learned from the pandemic to support recovery and make air travel better for passengers and better for the planet. 

As outlined in the strategy, the government will launch a new aviation passenger charter later this year, a one-stop guide for consumers informing them of their rights and what they can reasonably expect of the aviation industry when flying.

The charter will be developed in partnership with industry and consumer groups to help rebuild consumer confidence in air travel following the pandemic. 

Aviation Minister Robert Courts said:  "The pandemic posed an existential threat to the aviation sector. Now recovery has started, we have a chance to build back better than ever before. 

Through this new strategy, I’m setting out 10 priorities to ensure we build an industry that’s not only fit for the future but one that’s world-leading.

By working closely with the sector to focus on sustainable growth, powered by the latest innovations, we can ensure aviation creates jobs and opportunities across all 4 nations of the UK."


The past few months have been challenging for the sector as it returns to business as usual with a massive recruitment drive now underway to meet demand. As set out in ‘Flightpath to the future’, the government will work closely with industry and consumer groups to help the sector to provide the best service possible for consumers.


Airport Operators Association Chief Executive, Karen Dee, said:  "Airports provide the vital aviation links businesses across the UK need to trade within the UK and abroad. Post-pandemic, it is vital government and airports work together to rebuild and grow those links to support jobs and create new economic opportunities across all regions of the UK.

Airports look forward to working through the new Aviation Council with government ensure effective delivery of our shared ambitions to support levelling-up while also enabling people to take well-earned breaks abroad and reconnect with family and friends in other countries."


With the sector on the cusp of a green flying revolution, the government will work with it to develop the right skills and workforce to accommodate new technologies from drones, flying taxis and electric planes.


Richard Moriarty, Chief Executive of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:  "As aviation recovers, we share the government’s ambitions for the sector to build back to become cleaner, greener, more innovative and to continue prioritising safety and delivering for its consumers. 

The established and emerging aviation and aerospace sectors and their stakeholders will need to work together to deliver this and I’m looking forward to the Civil Aviation Authority being part of that collective effort."


The plans form a key part of the government’s levelling-up agenda, focusing on attracting and retaining the skills the sector needs as it recovers, unleashing the potential of the next generation and supporting a diverse workforce across the 4 nations of the UK that is fit for the future.


Ian Wilson, CEO DHL Express UK, said:  "Air freight accounts for 40% of UK imports and exports and is vital for the UK economy, enabling international trade and supporting UK businesses.

As we look to the future, aviation will continue to play an important role in delivering on the UK’s freight ambitions, particularly when it comes to decarbonisation of the supply chain.

As a global business, DHL Express is making significant investments in zero and low emission innovations such as sustainable aviation fuel and electric cargo planes and we look forward to working alongside the government as the UK becomes a leading market for these clean technologies."


The plans set out today (26 May 2022) will also deliver benefits for communities across the whole country through new jobs and better connectivity by becoming one of the first countries in the world to routinely use new aircraft to provide new and improved low carbon transport for goods, people and trade.

We can also benefit from new regulatory freedoms outside the EU, for example, to support further growth of general aviation.

The government will also later this year publish its jet zero strategy and set out its vision for how the aviation sector can reach net zero by 2050.

UK ingenuity is already developing zero-emission aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels and combined with improvements to airport and airspace efficiency, we will deliver net-zero flying for everyone. 

Today’s publication follows the Transport Secretary’s historic challenge to the industry to deliver the first-ever net-zero transatlantic flight by the end of 2023, powered purely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) – made from waste products, including household cooking oil and black bin rubbish.

Announced earlier this month, the pioneering test flight will be supported by up to £1 million of competition funding and will increase understanding of commercial flights powered by these fuels.





Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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A strategic framework for aviation - Flightpath to the Future

The publication of the UK Government's 'Flightpath to the future' sets out plans to create a modern, innovative and efficient aviation sector.


The UK government has published Flightpath to the future – a strategic framework for the future of aviation, focusing on the next 10 years, today.

This strategic framework highlights the government’s continued commitment to the sustainable growth of the aviation sector, recognising the vital importance of aviation to the UK. From supporting economic growth, to creating jobs across the UK, aviation adds huge value to our nation.

Report here... Flightpath to the future (publishing.service.gov.uk)


It also has an essential role to play in the personal value it provides to individuals and businesses, providing connections all around the world.

The aviation sector has faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery is an essential part of our plan for the future.

In March, the UK became the first major economy in the world to remove all COVID-19 related travel measures and restrictions for all passengers entering the UK. This is a really important milestone and marks a turning point for aviation in our journey back to pre-pandemic normality.

The publication of ‘Flightpath to the future’ recognises the importance of looking ahead for aviation. It takes into account the importance of supporting sector recovery, whilst also recognising the range of opportunities and challenges facing aviation over the medium term.

From making the most of Brexit and trade opportunities, to embracing new technologies and decarbonising the sector, the next 10 years will play a defining role in the future of UK aviation.

‘Flightpath to the future’ sets out the government’s key priorities, including a 10-point plan for delivery. The 10-point plan focuses on how we can achieve our ambition of creating a modern, innovative and efficient sector that is fit for the future.

The government is committed to working closely with the aviation sector to build back better and greener than ever before, with an ambition of retaining our position as one of the strongest aviation sectors in the world.

An essential aspect of this will be close engagement between the government and the sector, building on positive engagement that has been fundamental during the pandemic.

Alongside publishing ‘Flightpath to the future’, the government is therefore also launching an Aviation Council, focused on supporting the implementation of the commitments established through this strategic framework.

The council will be jointly chaired by the Minister for Aviation and an industry representative, and will include representatives from across the whole sector, a range of government departments and the devolved administrations.

Our 10-point plan for the future of UK aviation covers the following areas:

Enhancing global impact for sustainable recovery

1. Recover, learn lessons from the pandemic and sustainably grow the sector.

2. Enhance the UK’s global aviation impact and leadership.

3. Support growth in airport capacity where it is justified, ensuring that capacity is used in a way that delivers for the UK.

Embracing innovation for a sustainable future

4. Put the sector on course to achieve jet zero by 2050.

5. Capture the potential of new technology and its uses.

Realising benefits for the UK

6. Unlock local benefits and level up.

7. Unleash the potential of the next generation of aviation professionals.

8. Make the UK the best place in the world for general aviation.

Delivering for users

9. Improve the consumer experience.

10. Retain our world-leading record on security and safety with a world-leading regulator.

Implementing the 10-point plan will play an important role in meeting government and sector ambitions for the future of aviation. The government recognises that the sector is currently in the early stages of recovery and there are a number of challenges ahead.

We will work hand in hand with the whole aviation sector to implement the commitments set out in ‘Flightpath to the future’ and ensure a bright future for UK aviation.

We have a real opportunity to not only see passenger demand return and the sector to flourish again but also to modernise and create a greener, more sustainable sector for the future. A sector that leads the way internationally on key issues, be that learning lessons from the pandemic, delivering jet zero or embracing the opportunities presented by aviation innovation.

The UK will continue to have one of the strongest aviation sectors internationally, including always putting consumers first and having the safest and most secure sector in the world.


Flightpath to the future (publishing.service.gov.uk)



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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CDB Aviation Names Brian Dowling Chief Technical Officer

CDB Aviation Names Brian Dowling Chief Technical Officer

The Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing, CDB Aviation has announced the appointment of Brian Dowling as Chief Technical Officer.

 With a long-standing career spanning over four decades in the aircraft leasing and Airline Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (“MRO”) industries, Dowling is a highly regarded technical expert, who has handled a broad range of complex transactions, including aircraft transitions, as well as has led LOI and lease execution and has overseen relationships with global OEM and MRO organizations.

“Brian has led our technical team during this past year, exhibiting a profound understanding of our platform’s unique technical requirements,” commented Patrick Hannigan, CDB Aviation’s Chief Executive Officer. “It’s no easy task in any environment to gauge and respond to business requirements in this area. The notable results he and his team have achieved under his leadership leave no question as to Brian’s capabilities. We’re thrilled to welcome him to our leadership team.”

Dowling joined the company in 2017 as Head of Transitions and Transactions. While overseeing technical support to the airline marketing and aircraft trading functions, he also led technical operations in regional offices in Ireland, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. Prior to CDB Aviation, Dowling was Senior Vice President, Technical & Asset Management, at SMBC Aviation Capital. Previously, he was Hangar Line Manager & Senior Quality Assurance Manager with Lufthansa Technic Shannon, Aer Lingus, Dan Air, and Nigeria Airways. He started his career as Avionic Licensed Engineer at Gatwick and Dublin Airports.

Dowling is an FAA and EASA certified engineer. He earned his M.Sc. in Air Transportation Management from City University, London. He was a lecturer in CIT’s Aircraft Acquisition and Finance course and is currently teaching in the Master’s in Aviation program at Cranfield University.

“Leading our technical operations as offered me a superb challenge, especially in light of the aviation business’ cyclical nature and the pandemic’s astounding ramifications for the industry,” said Brian Dowling, CDB Aviation’s Chief Technical Officer. “I find the people aspect of my role most rewarding because my colleagues bring incredible ingenuity to every challenge. I look forward to furthering the efforts in support of leasing customers and, as importantly, the team here at CDB Aviation.”



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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Airbus increases its UK innovation footprint to develop new hydrogen technologies


Airbus is strengthening its presence in the UK with the launch of a Zero Emission Development Centre (ZEDC) for hydrogen technologies.

A priority for the UK ZEDC will be the development of a cost-competitive cryogenic fuel system required for the successful entry-into-service of Airbus’ ZEROe passenger aircraft by 2035 and to accelerate UK skills and know-how on hydrogen-propulsion technologies.

The UK ZEDC will benefit from the recent commitment by the UK Government to guarantee £685 million of funding to the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) over the next three years to support the development of zero-carbon and ultra-low-emission aircraft technologies.

“Establishing the ZEDC in the UK expands Airbus’ in-house industrial capabilities to design, develop, test and manufacture cryogenic hydrogen storage tanks and related systems for the ZEROe project across Airbus’ four home countries. This, coupled with our partnership with ATI, will allow us to leverage our respective expertise to realise the potential of hydrogen technology to support the decarbonisation of the aviation industry,” said Sabine Klauke, Airbus Chief Technical Officer.

Technology development at the new UK ZEDC, to be based in Filton, Bristol, has already started and will cover the full product and industrial capabilities from components up to whole system and cryogenic testing. End-to-end fuel systems development, a speciality of Airbus in the UK, is one of the most complex technologies crucial to the performance of a future hydrogen aircraft.

The ZEDC complements Airbus’ existing Research and Technology footprint in the UK, as well as the work on cryogenic liquid hydrogen tanks being done at Airbus’ existing ZEDCs in Madrid, Spain and Stade, Germany (composite structure technologies) and in Nantes, France and Bremen, Germany (metallic structural technologies). All Airbus ZEDCs are expected to be fully operational and ready for ground testing with the first fully functional cryogenic hydrogen tank during 2023, and with flight testing starting in 2026.

With this new facility, Airbus reaffirms its long-term commitment to remain a major player in Britain’s world-leading aerospace ecosystem, working with the Jet Zero Council to driveforward research in the sector, supporting green jobs and helping the UK meet its ambitious net zero targets.

The launch of the UK ZEDC follows the opening of the £40 million AIRTeC research and testing facility in Filton in June 2021, jointly funded by the ATI and Airbus, to deliver the next generation of aircraft wing, landing-gear systems and fuel system designs.

 



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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WestJet ratifies 10-year agreement with WestJet flight dispatchers

WestJet ratifies 10-year agreement with WestJet flight dispatchers

WestJet announced this week that WestJet flight dispatchers, represented by the Canadian Airline Dispatchers Association (CALDA), voted more than 90 per cent in favour of a 10-year agreement with the carrier. 

This ratified agreement starts June 1, 2022 and expires on May 31, 2032.  

"As our industry continues to recover, this 10-year agreement will help the long-term sustainability of WestJet and demonstrates our commitment to our WestJetters, our guests and the communities we serve," said Diederik Pen, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer. "Our flight dispatchers exemplify true professionalism, dedication and help to ensure our operation runs smoothly day in and day out. The Canadian economy continues to transition from the challenges we faced during the pandemic. We welcome the ratification of the agreement and look forward to further collaboration to advance the recovery of Canada's travel and tourism industry." 

 



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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25 May, 2022

Canada Jetlines Receives Stage 2 Approval from Canadian Transportation Agency



Canada Jetlines, the new all-Canadian, leisure carrier, is proud to announce that the Canadian Transportation Agency (“CTA”) has determined that the company has met the agency’s financial requirements. The CTA had previously determined that Canada Jetlines met the Canadian Control requirements. With the satisfaction of this significant milestone, the formal CTA commercial license will be issued following the issuance of the Air Operator Certificate (“AOC”) by Transport Canada.

“This is an important milestone for Canada Jetlines as we are approaching the completion of the AOC process with Transport Canada. The teams of both the CTA and Canada Jetlines have been working with great collaboration and diligence to ensure we have met or exceeded the requirements for a start-up airline operating in Canada. We are working in earnest towards the finish line of the certification process. We are confident that we will operate our first commercial flight this summer and plan to announce our commercial schedule in the coming weeks,” said Eddy Doyle CEO Canada Jetlines.

 



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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Lufthansa wants to acquire a 20% stake in state-owned Italian airline ITA Airways.....

Photo REUTERS/Remo Casilli

Germany's leading international airline, Lufthansa wants to acquire a 20% stake in state-owned Italian airline ITA Airways, the successor to Alitalia, and its partner MSC is bidding for a 60% stake, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday.

The Italian state would initially keep the remaining 20%, the source said. The Lufthansa-MSC duo made their offer to acquire a majority stake in ITA on Monday.

MSC, also known as Mediterranean Shipping Group, has filed an offer together with Lufthansa and is awaiting the next steps, a company spokesperson said, declining to comment further.

The Italian Treasury did not reply to a request for comment on the sale process after the deadline for bids on Monday.

MSC and Lufthansa face a rival bid from U.S. financial investor Certares which is working with Air France-KLM (AIRF.PA) and Delta Air Lines (DAL.N).

Delta confirmed on Tuesday that it would not be a financial investor in ITA, but said in a statement that it would seek to build on an existing commercial partnership with ITA.

Air France-KLM declined to comment on ITA on Tuesday.


It has launched a 2.26-billion-euro ($2.4 billion) share sale to shore up its balance sheet and repay some French state aid, bringing it closer to repaying government pandemic support and meeting European Union conditions for participating in any future airline consolidation. read more

Italian media reports said the Alitalia successor was worth between around 1 billion and 2 billion euros. A Lufthansa spokesperson did not want to comment on the figures.

A decision is expected in the coming weeks about which of the two bidder groups will be invited to launch exclusive negotiations. Italy is aiming to complete a sale by the end of June.

 Reporting by Ilona Wissenbach, Zuzanna Szymanska, Rajesh Kumar Singh, Jonathan Saul and Giuseppe Fonte Writing by Paul Carrel Editing by Miranda Murray and Jonathan Oatis





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Avia Solutions boss predicts aircraft shortage in lease market.....

As the COVID-19 wanes sluggishly, the aircraft leasing market is likely to experience an increase in demand. Mainly, this will result from the growing demand for new aircraft as more and more airlines try to provide expanded capacity for the snowballing numbers of passengers and the surge in demand for cargo aviation.

Current projections indicate that the aviation industry will inject up to £148 billion in funding the booming demand for new aircraft by 2023 and even more in the succeeding years. The need to acquire new aircraft to meet the requirements for increased aircraft capacity will likely push airlines to consider alternative ways to avoid the financial burden and other challenges of purchasing them. As a result, aircraft leasing may emerge as the most attractive option even for airlines seeking to increase their capacity, albeit temporarily.

Today, many airlines are less concerned about when demand will return. Indeed, the pressing question is how they will respond to the challenge of the increasing aviation demand. For many, passenger recovery would mean more aircraft departures and increased utilization which may have a net negative impact on pilot supply.

Regarding magnitude, the expected decline in global pilot supply will hit 34,000 pilots between now and 2025. However, the figure may clock at 50,000 in the worst-case scenario, signaling real challenges for small and big carries. The outright reasons explaining the pilot deficit problem include the increasing numbers of pilots going into retirement, defections, change of careers, furloughs, and fleet growth.

The pilot shortage problem may compel some airlines to enter into short-term dry lease agreements, where they hand over some of their aircraft to other companies with a bigger supply of in-service pilots rather than cancelling hundreds of flights due to flight shortages. However, an increase in demand for dry leasing by major airlines will ultimately cause a leasing deficit, as the number of carriers pursuing ACMI solutions exceeds that of airlines providing such services. Even with such big players like Lufthansa, which in their latest strategy is reactivating temporarily parked aircraft and the use of seasonal wet-lease capacities, might not be enough to meet the demand.

Conceivably, some airlines may experience aircraft shortages, given that part of their existing fleet cannot return to service because they require maintenance. As a result, this will push the demand for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services. Current forecasts indicate that the value of the aircraft MRO market will increase from £57.96 billion in 2021 to £79.47 billion by 2028 due to the growing demand for MRO services.

Arkansas' Central Flying Service under new management.

Arkansas’ oldest aviation firm, Central Flying Service of Little Rock, is under new management. Central Flying Service and Tricoastal Ventures, LLC, a capital investment firm dedicated to commercial aviation, announced this week that they have concluded the acquisition from the Holbert family, the founders and owners for the past 82 years. Tricoastal acquired 100% of the stock in the company, however other terms were not disclosed. Central provides flight training, aircraft sales, heavy maintenance for propeller-driven and jet aircraft including aircraft painting, interior refurbishment, and avionics upgrades and repairs out of several hangars on the west side of Adams Field.

 Departing CEO Richard Holbert is pleased with the new ownership team, including their experience and their approach. “We are proud to know that Central is in the right hands, and that the unique and lasting brand we created will continue to serve our great people and this community for decades to come,” he added.

The Company will be led by commercial aviation professionals Phil Jordan as Chief Executive Officer and Herb Knight as Chief Operating Officer, both of whom are Partners at Tricoastal. Central intends to capitalize on their existing capabilities, expanding to additional locations and adjacent markets. “We have big plans for the company, and we have the right team to maintain a culture of quality and excellence while extending our reach,” said Phil Jordan.

As sister companies under Tricoastal ownership, American Kodiak (offering the Kodiak 100) and Volare Air (offering Tecnam aircraft) will engage Central to provide full-service, authorized maintenance for the growing family of Kodiak and Tecnam aircraft owners. In addition to aircraft sales and maintenance, Central will continue to provide Flight Training and Aircraft Management and Charter services in Little Rock.

Aerospace and Defense industry veteran Brian Raduenz has been named Chairman of the Board at Central. While not involved in day-to-day operations, he will provide strategic guidance and business advice. “We are honored to be entrusted with the legacy established by the Holbert family and maintained by the loyal employees in Little Rock,” Raduenz said. “Our focus right now is excellence in commercial aviation and sales, and in the future, I could see this platform getting more involved in defense work as well.”



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Ethiopian Airlines to order five Boeing 777 Freighters


The largest and leading aviation group in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines has put in another order for Boeing 777 cargo planes. 

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said ”The addition of these five Boeing 777 Freighters into our cargo fleet will enable us to meet the growing demand in our cargo operation. While cementing our partnership with the Boeing Company with new orders, the growth of our freighter fleet takes the capacity and efficiency of our shipment service to the next level. We always strive to serve our customers with the latest technology aircraft the aviation industry could offer. Our Africa’s largest cargo terminal coupled with fuel-efficient freighters and well-trained cargo handling professionals will enable our customers get the best quality shipment service. Customers can rely on Ethiopian for wide-ranging cargo services across five continents.” 

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of nine 777 freighters, which have a notional range of 4,970 nautical miles and can carry a maximum structural payload of 107 tonnes used on a network of 127 international destinations around the world with both belly hold capacity and dedicated freighter services.     

In early March 2022, Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines also announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the intent to purchase five 777-8 Freighters, the industry’s newest, most capable and most fuel-efficient twin-engine freighter. 



 



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Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






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Strong booking flow, increased revenue, and lower cost, Play playing well.

Strong booking flow, increased revenue, and lower cost
Booking flow is strong and load factor growing


PLAY has carried approx. 230 thousand passengers to date with approx. 60 thousand passengers in the first quarter of 2022

The financial position of the company is strong. Cash and cash equivalents on the 31st of March amounted to USD 42.12 million. The equity ratio was 22% and the company has no external interest-bearing debt

EBIT was negative in the first quarter of 2022 in the amount of USD 13.3 million, as expected as the company has yet to reach economies of scale. The Omicron variant impacted revenue during the quarter and the war in Ukraine resulted in higher fuel prices towards the end of the quarter, impacting financial results negatively

PLAY has started the process of implementing fuel hedges

Cost of Available Seat Kilometer (CASK) excl. fuel is rapidly decreasing with the increased operation, and PLAY continues to work its way toward operational profit

Revenue (RASK) is increasing rapidly
During Q1, the main focus was on preparing for the airlines‘ operational ramp-up before the summer schedule and the hub-and-spoke operation, including hiring and training new employees, preparing 15 new destination airports, and adding to the fleet.

In January, PLAY carried 13,488 passengers with a load factor of 55.7%. In February the load factor was 67.1% and PLAY carried 19,686 passengers. The load factor was 66.9% in March and PLAY carried 23,667 passengers, which is a 20% increase from the previous month. A surge in COVID-19 cases at the end of 2021 caused hesitation amongst passengers to book their travel and had a negative impact on booking inflow for Q1.



Forward bookings continue to strengthen

Booking inflow started to improve in January, with 95% more sold seats compared to December 2021. In February, this positive trend continued with 59% more sold seats compared to January, despite the war in Ukraine. This improvement in booking inflow has continued into the second quarter of 2022, with 336% more sold seats in April compared to January, also reflecting more capacity. In April the load factor was 72.4% and we saw over 50% increase in passengers from the previous month.

Strong cash position and lower CASK

As expected, EBIT was negative in the amount of USD 13.3 million in the first quarter of 2022, as the company has yet to reach economies of scale. The Omicron variant impacted revenue during the quarter and the war in Ukraine resulted in higher fuel price towards the end of the quarter, both impacting the company’s financial results negatively.

PLAY continues to hold a strong financial position with cash and cash equivalents on the 31st of March amounted to USD 42.12 million. The equity ratio was 22% and the company has no external interest bearing debt.

PLAY has been successful in keeping costs down and CASK has been decreasing with increased operations. PLAY anticipates positive operating results in the latter half of this year with CASK excl. fuel steadily decreasing. PLAY foresees to reach its goal of CASK excl. fuel under 4 cents in summer 2022.


Loss amounted to USD 11.2 million for the first three months of 2022 compared to 0.4 USD million for the same period last year, before PLAY started flight operations.

Steps taken towards implementing PLAY‘s fuel hedging policy
PLAY has started the process of implementing its fuel hedging policy. A fuel hedging agreement has been made with Skeljungur which is in line with the hedging policy. A first conservative step has been taken in implementing the policy, and the volatile economic and world situation will be continued to be monitored closely for further steps to be taken. However, the fuel surcharge put in place in March manages to mitigate a notable portion of the fuel price increase.

Changing our fleet mix due to higher fuel prices

In the summer 2022, PLAY was planning to have three Airbus A321neo, one Airbus A321neo Long Range (LR) and two Airbus A320neo. Due to the high price of fuel, PLAY has decided to change its fleet plan for summer 2022, and instead of leasing an Airbus A321neo LR, PLAY will lease an Airbus A320neo at more favorable terms, thus securing an even lower cost base in the long term. As a result, the planned three times weekly Orlando service that was supposed to start on 30 September 2022 will not commence. Following this change, PLAY’s fleet in summer 2022 will consist of three Airbus A321neo and three Airbus A320neo.

Expanded network ensures increased utilization of aircraft and other resources

In the second quarter of 2022, PLAY will expand its network as new destinations in Europe and North America are added. In April, PLAY launched service to Baltimore/Washington D.C. and Dublin. So far in May, PLAY has launched services to Prague, Boston, Lisbon, Gothenburg, and Brussels. From now until the end of May, PLAY will launch services to Stavanger, Malaga, and Trondheim. In June, PLAY will launch services to Palma de Mallorca, Bologna, and New York.

The total number of seats on sale in the second quarter of 2022 will be 167% more than the company offered in the first quarter of 2022. This expanded network will result in improved utilization of aircraft and other resources. As a result, PLAY’s unit cost (CASK), excluding fuel and costs related to emissions units, is expected to be considerably reduced in the second quarter of 2022 compared to the previous year.

“As we close the first quarter of 2022, we see and feel a growing demand in the market and a great response to our new destinations. PLAY has clearly gained momentum, market share, and strength very quickly. After a challenging winter, it is good to see this positive feeling materialize in an increased load factor and a growing number of passengers month after month. This quarter, we took steps towards expanding our fleet, staff number, network, and we are confident that we are increasing our capacity at the right time as market demand has clearly recovered. PLAY will start operations to twelve new destinations in Europe and the U.S in May and June. This means that in summer 2022, PLAY will serve 26 destinations on both sides of the Atlantic, so it is safe to say that we have some very exciting times ahead. PLAY is heading into the spring and summer with a strong booking and financial position. We expect that utilization will continue to improve in the coming months with the addition of the VIA market to PLAY’s network as we have started connecting cities in Europe and the United States. The team at PLAY has worked tirelessly towards the goal of launching the transatlantic operation as well as our many new European destinations, and it has been great to watch all the pieces come together thanks to their precision, professionalism, and skills,“ says Birgir Jónsson, CEO.

 CONDENSED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  1 January - 31 March 2022

R01 - Fyrirmynd að uppsetningu lítils endurskoðaðs ársreiknings



Use the voucher code MAY22FREE to get free delivery in May from Help for Heroes.
Apply the code at the checkout for UK standard delivery. Not applicable to international or next day delivery. 
Help for Heroes Charity helps to rebuild the lives of those with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces. No matter when someone served, H4H give them the support they need to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support to the whole family to help them all cope with the challenges they face. Long-term recovery is more than repairing damaged bodies and minds; it’s about rebuilding lives.






Want me in your inbox? Follow here for email updates Air101 here.



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