UK Ministry of Defence orders more H145 helicopters

The UK Ministry of Defence has ordered a further six Airbus H145 helicopters as the next step in renewing its rotary fleet and cutting the number of different types in service.

The new aircraft will be deployed to Cyprus primarily for emergency response duties and to Brunei to support UK military training in jungle warfare and will replace Airbus Pumas currently performing those roles.

Airbus Helicopters in the UK Managing Director Lenny Brown said: “We congratulate the MoD on this smart acquisition which simultaneously provides the right-sized helicopter for the Cyprus and Brunei requirements, represents excellent value for the UK taxpayer, and is another key step in the rationalisation of types in the transport helicopter fleet.”

“The H145 Jupiter, and its sister H135 Juno, continue to demonstrate exceptional reliability and versatility in the training role in the Military Flying Training System (MFTS) and will bring these crucial attributes to their new tasks.”

The new helicopters will be delivered next year and will serve in parallel with 29 H135s and seven H145s in the Defence Helicopter Flying School which trains all UK military pilots as part of MFTS at RAF Shawbury. The enlarged H145 fleet brings economies of support costs and substantially reduces pilot conversion training time.

The latest version of Airbus’ best-selling H145 adds an innovative five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 150 kg. The simplicity of the new bearingless main rotor design eases maintenance operations, improves serviceability and reliability, and enhances flight comfort for both passengers and crew.

Worldwide there are more than 1,675 H145 family helicopters in service, with a total of more than 7.6 million flight hours. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. It includes a high performance 4-axis autopilot, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class, while its CO2 emissions are the lowest among its competitors.

The Helionix avionics generate significant savings in pilot training due to commonality between different Airbus types including the H135 and H175M.

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Aerobytes confirm sponsorship of Rich Goodwin Airshows

Popular Aerobatic Display team, Rich Goodwin Airshows, can now confirm that Aerobytes, a world-leading Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) company will be their headline sponsor for the 2024 Airshow Season.

Rich, an ex-RAF Tornado and commercial pilot, wows crowds throughout the UK and Europe with his unique style of flying where high energy gyroscopic forces blend with aerobatic manoeuvres to produce an exciting dynamic routine.

He flies two aircraft, G-EWIZ, a modified muscle biplane and a recent edition to the fleet; G-JPIT - the Jet Pitts muscle biplane - a unique aircraft, and one of a kind. It has been modified structurally to have two LYNX jet turbine engines mounted on the fuselage sides – a first for such an aircraft and means it can hover like a Harrier!

This unique innovation turns heads at every airshow because nobody in the audience expects a small, propeller-driven aircraft to suddenly ‘let rip’ with jet noise and accelerate vertically. Once those jets power up, all heads are pointing in only one direction! 

But it is the story behind those jet engines that has attracted Aerobytes to sponsor Rich Goodwin Airshows, as well as the shared ambition to inspire and excite the next generation in aviation and the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

Eddie Forrester, MD of Aerobytes commented; “What Rich has achieved with both of his superb, home-built aircraft is an inspiration to future engineers and pilots. You don’t know what the limit is on ‘possible’ until you witness somebody having passed it! If only a handful of would-be pilots or engineers have that creative fire lit in them as a result of seeing Rich then our investment will be repaid a hundred times over.”

Aerobytes was established in 2001, supplies flight-safety software globally and has directly

supported the UK air-display industry since 2007 when it started sponsoring the much-loved and missed Vulcan XH558. Subsequently, Aerobytes sponsored several air-shows, was the title sponsor for The Blades Aerobatic Team, and The Blades Air Race Team and is now the title sponsor for the disabled flying charity Aerobility.

Rich Goodwin commented, “It’s great that Eddie and Aerobytes are sponsoring us this year, and I really understand the importance of their FDM product having spent the last 26 years being monitored by it on the flight deck of the Boeing 757. It delivers ever-increasing flight safety and risk mitigation to the commercial Aviation sector.”

The 2024 season is looking to be the busiest yet for Rich Goodwin Airshows with numerous

displays around the UK as well as France, Belgium and Poland.

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Rich Goodwin, is an ex-RAF Tornado and commercial Boeing 767 pilot who has competed with the British Aerobatic Association. He owns two highly modified Pitts Special stunt planes, flying stunning aerobatic displays at airshows and events throughout the UK and Europe. Based at Gloucestershire Airport he also focuses on innovation and STEM within aviation to inspire the next generation. He's known as the pilot who draws smiles in the sky, gaining national media coverage for his efforts!

Aerobytes are a world-leading provider of automated and adaptive Flight Data Monitoring and

Flight Operational Quality Assurance.  In layman’s terms, they make flying safer and more efficient by using aircraft usage data to detect potential training issues for pilots, predict failures before they happen and reduce fuel burn.

Reliable Airlines joins top 5% of part 135 cargo operators

Reliable Airlines, a cargo airline based in Albuquerque, today announced its Safety Management System (SMS) is in full compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards. The Safety Management System Voluntary Program (SMSVP) is optional, and the airline’s achievement in attaining FAA acceptance, or “active conformance,” demonstrates its strong commitment to aviation safety and establishing the requisite infrastructure to meet these rigorous standards. Reliable Airlines is building an airline with sophisticated safety systems, procedures and technology to safely scale.

The Reliable Airlines SMS provides guidance and procedures that cover operations, flights, testing, engineering, environmental health and safety, cargo services and airspace management. The FAA completed a review and validation of the associated manuals and processes before formal acceptance.

“Ensuring the highest levels of safety has been our top priority since day one, and it’s instilled in our culture,” said Tom Klassen, President and Director of Operations for Reliable Airlines. “Our dedicated team completed the SMSVP process from application to acceptance in less than 90 days. We could have not accomplished this without the support of our partners at the Albuquerque FAA Flight Standards District Office.”

The airline has a fleet of five Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft and operates daily cargo flights from Albuquerque Sunport and has near-term plans for aircraft and route expansion. Reliable Airlines is a wholly owned subsidiary of Reliable Robotics, which is focused on developing and certifying aviation safety-enhancing technologies, including auto-land, auto-taxi, and auto-takeoff, as well as high-integrity navigation and remote piloting capabilities. The Reliable autonomous flight system is aircraft-agnostic and will be deployed first on the Caravan.

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Corporación América Airports released its passenger traffic numbers for March 2024

Corporación América Airports S.A., one of the leading private airport operators in the world, reported today a 0.8% year-on-year (YoY) increase in passenger traffic in March 2024, reaching 92.4% of the levels seen in March 2019. Excluding Natal for comparison purposes, total traffic in March increased by 4.0% YoY, reaching 95.1% of March 2019 levels.

Passenger Traffic Overview

Total passenger traffic grew 0.8% compared to the same month of 2023, or 4.0% when adjusting for the discontinuation of the Natal airport. Compared to March 2019 levels, total traffic stood at 92.4%, or 95.1% ex-Natal. International passenger traffic increased 12.9% year-over-year (YoY) and surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 4.7%, while domestic traffic decreased 6.7% YoY to 86.2% of March 2019 levels.

In Argentina, total passenger traffic continued to recover in March, increasing by 3.8% YoY and reaching 96.6% of pre-pandemic volumes, down from the 98.6% recorded last month. Domestic traffic was 1.1% down YoY and in line with March 2019 levels, while International traffic was 15.0% up YoY, reaching 90.6% of pre-pandemic levels.

In Italy, passenger traffic grew by 18.0% compared to the same month in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels of March 2019 by 8.3%. International passenger traffic, which accounted for over 75% of the total traffic, increased 20.1% YoY and was 15.6% higher than March 2019 levels, while domestic passenger traffic increased 11.2% YoY and was 11.2% below pre-pandemic levels. Florence airport exceeded March 2019 traffic volumes by 17.6% while traffic at Pisa airport, where some pre-pandemic destinations still need to resume, was above pre-pandemic levels for the first time.

In Brazil, total passenger traffic decreased by 13.5% YoY, or increased by 0.3% YoY when adjusting for the discontinuation of the Natal airport. Domestic traffic, which accounted for almost 60% of the total traffic, reached 71.4% of pre-pandemic levels, or 88.1% when adjusting for Natal, while transit passengers improved to 87.0% of March 2019 levels. Traffic in Brazil remained heavily impacted by financial and aircraft constraints in some of the local airlines. As a reminder, following the friendly termination process concluded in February 2024, CAAP no longer operates Natal airport, effective February 19, 2024. Therefore, statistics for Natal are available up to February 18, 2024.

Air Canada to offer more flights to more destinations....

Air Canada is introducing more flights to more destinations across Europe and Asia this summer, along with a choice of 120 destinations in North America, to fulfil their summer travel plans. Alongside new and enhanced international routes to Singapore, Madrid, Stockholm, Osaka and Seoul, the carrier's Summer 2024 international capacity is growing by 30 per cent into Asia-Pacific and 25 per cent to key leisure destinations in Southern Europe compared to last Summer.

New international services to Singapore, Madrid, Stockholm, Osaka and Seoul

Over 30% additional capacity into Asia-Pacific with up to 87 weekly flights

25% increase to key leisure destinations in Southern Europe

120 destinations across North America, including new services to Charleston, South Carolina and Tulum, Mexico

Air Canada customers have a wide range of exciting options across Europe and Asia this summer, along with a choice of 120 destinations in North America. (CNW Group/Air Canada)

"We continue to see strong demand for southern European destinations, and have increased capacity to countries such as Italy, Greece and especially Spain for this summer. Air Canada is also focused on strategically expanding its Pacific hub in Vancouver and we are thrilled to have launched service to Singapore earlier this month, as well as increasing service to Hong Kong and Japan. With continued high demand for visiting friends, relatives and leisure travel, our increased services to key destinations give customers more options than ever before," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President, Revenue and Network Planning, at Air Canada.

"Within North America, Air Canada's domestic and trans-border network will grow to 120 destinations this summer, with the addition of Tulum, Mexico and Charleston, South Carolina, and be further strengthened by our joint business agreement with United Airlines. Taken together, our domestic, trans-border and international schedules, alongside our airline and intermodal partnerships, create a global network unrivalled among Canadian carriers. We have continued to build scale at our Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver hubs, each offering convenient and easy connections and such amenities as our Maple Leaf Lounges and Signature Suites in Toronto and Vancouver for our premium customers."

Saudi Arabia shows investment initiatives in tourism at International Hospitality Investment Forum

The Saudi Ministry of Tourism is currently taking a prominent stage at the International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF), presenting a unique opportunity for global investors to dive into the thriving tourism landscape of the Kingdom. With the spotlight on the Tourism Investment Enablers Program (TIEP), that was recently announced, Saudi Arabia is aggressively pushing towards its Vision 2030 goal of being a top global tourism destination for investors and tourists alike. ​

This strategic presentation comes at a time when Saudi Arabia's tourism sector celebrates an incredible milestone of 100 million visitors in 2023, seven years ahead of schedule, marking a significant stride towards economic diversification and emphasizing the sector's growing contribution to the national GDP. The flagship Hospitality Investment Enablers (HIE), one of TIEP’s initiatives, aims to leverage this momentum, planning an investment infusion into the hospitality sector of up to SAR 42 billion in key destinations, which alone is anticipated to create 120,000 new jobs by 2030.​

The IHIF audience is getting a close look at Saudi Arabia's plans to expand its accommodation capacity dramatically. The Kingdom is targeting an increase in hotel rooms to over 500,000 and aiming to welcome 150 million visitors annually by 2030. The HIE stands at the core of these ambitions, designed to energize the hospitality sector by introducing a new wave of supply in targeted tourism hotspots, significantly enriching the Kingdom's diverse tourism offerings.​

Avolon's boss wins top business leadership award

The Irish American Partnership has presented its 2024 New York Business Leadership award to Paul Geaney, President & Chief Commercial Officer at Avolon. The award was celebrated at a breakfast reception on Thursday at the historic Union League Club of New York attended by over 300 business leaders, friends, and supporters.

Irish American Partnership previous honorees include Adrian Jones, Chairman and Co-Head, Global Private Equity, Goldman Sachs; Stan McCarthy, former Chief Executive, Kerry Group; Michael Dowling, President and Chief Executive at Norwell Health; and Bernie Brennan, President of the Royal Dublin Society.

A founding member of the Avolon team in 2010, Mr. Geaney was appointed as Avolon’s Chief Commercial Officer in July 2021, adding the role of President in July 2022. He had previously held Head of Americas, Head of OEM, and Chief Risk Officer roles. A Dublin native, Geaney holds a Bachelor in Economics and Politics from Trinity College Dublin, and served on the Board of the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (2019-2023). 

Avolon is a global leader in aviation finance, with 145 airline customers in 64 countries, and an owned, managed and committed fleet of 1,033 aircraft. In its 2023 financial results it reported net income of $339 million and $31 billion in total assets.

Guests enjoyed an in-depth interview of Mr. Geaney by Brian Ruane, Global Head of Clearance with BNY Mellon and Board member of the Partnership. 

JetBlue is making several leadership and organizational changes as it tries to get back to sustained profitability.

JetBlue is continuing on its path to sustained profitability following its failed attempt to take over ailing budget airline Spirit with a series of top-level changes.... 

Daniel Shurz has been named JetBlue’s new head of revenue, network, and enterprise planning. Over the past 20 years Shurz has served as vice president, network planning for Air Canada and senior vice president, commercial for Frontier Airlines, and held strategy and business development roles at both carriers. He will lead JetBlue’s network planning, airline partnerships, sales and revenue management, and enterprise planning teams which are critical elements of the company’s push for profitability and plans to strengthen its network positioning. Daniel will report to JetBlue’s president, Marty St. George.

Dave Clark has been named JetBlue’s new head of finance and strategy, responsible for financial planning and analysis, strategy and business development, as well as investor relations. He joined JetBlue in 2009 and most recently served as JetBlue’s head of revenue and planning. He will report to JetBlue’s chief financial officer, Ursula Hurley.

Shelly Griessel has been promoted to vice president, customer support. She joined JetBlue in 2022 and since then has served as managing director, customer support, responsible for JetBlue’s omnichannel management of all customer contacts. She will continue to report to Jayne O’Brien, JetBlue’s head of marketing and customer support.

Silent flight edges closer to take off, according to new research.

The mystery of how futuristic aircraft-embedded engines, featuring an energy-conserving arrangement, make noise has been solved by researchers at the University of Bristol.

The study, published today in Journal of Fluid Mechanics, reveals for the first time how noise is generated and propagated from these engines, technically known as boundary layer ingesting (BLI) ducted fans. BLI ducted fans are similar to the large engines found in modern airplanes but are partially embedded into the plane's main body instead of under the wings.

As they ingest air from both the front and from the surface of the airframe, they don't have to work as hard to move the plane, so it burns less fuel.

The research, led by Dr Feroz Ahmed from Bristol’s School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering under the supervision of Professor Mahdi Azarpeyvand, utilised the University National Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel Facility. They were able to identify distinct noise sources originating from the duct, the rotating fan, and the air flowing over the curved airframe surface.

They found that the noise pattern changes depending on how much thrust the fan is producing. When the fan is producing high thrust, they observed a noise pattern similar to what is seen in fans without ducts. But when the fan is producing less thrust, the noise pattern changes because the duct itself starts making more noise.

Dr Ahmed explained: “Our study addresses this urgent issue of noise, which poses a major obstacle in obtaining certifications, by uncovering the physics behind the noise these configurations produce.

“By understanding the noise mechanisms in BLI ducted fans, it is hoped that industrial guidelines can be developed for quieter airframe-integrated propulsion systems in future aircraft concepts, from large-scale conventional aircraft to small-scale electric vertical take-off and landing, known as eVTOL, aircraft.”

Projects such as the Bell X-22A, Embraer X, Airbus E-fan, Lilium Jet, Green Jet, and Hybrid Air Vehicle are leading the way in developing these systems for next-generation aircraft. They are becoming more popular due to advancements in powerful electric motors. 

The boldest new art-inspired hotel in London set to open next week

Already touted as the boldest new art-inspired hotel in London with spectacular bedrooms and suites offering 360-degree skyline views across the capital, art’otel London Hoxton opens its doors 24th April—and you’re invited.

Dive into the stylish-yet-playful hotel with legendary Signature Artist D*Face as your guide. Experience our restaurants and bars, immersive gallery and auditorium or explore the creative scene of London’s Shoreditch neighbourhood with cutting-edge galleries, street art, live music, hip bars and more just outside our doors with Liverpool Street Station and the underground network just a short walk away.

Choose from 357 stylish rooms and suites, all featuring the signature works of local London artist, D*Face.

The Brush is an all-day Grand Cafe, Lounge & Cocktail Bar in the heart of Hoxton. Coming in April 2024!

For more details and to make a reservation, visit the Radisson Hotel website.

. Special discount for a limited-time offer! Save up to 30% now. 
 

art'otel London Hoxton boasts 357 stylish rooms and suites, all featuring the distinctive pop-art style of D*Face. Book a memorable getaway and experience bold designs features and floor-to-ceiling windows that fill all rooms with natural daylight. Appreciate modern amenities during your stay including bedding and pillow selections, bathrobes and slippers, and unlimited free Wi-Fi.

The Hoxton restaurant and bar scene is about to get a whole lot sexier!

Major changes at the top of euroAtlantic....

euroAtlantic Airways – the Portuguese aircraft wet-leasing and charter business, has announced a number of top-level changes. Stewart Higginson has been appointed CEO and Chair of euroAtlantic and will be joined by the highly experienced management team of Mário Alvim, Lourenço Gomes and João Nunes, who will complete the Board.

Alongside the Board changes, Njord I-Jet Aviation S.A.R.L ("Njord I-Jet"), which owns a controlling interest in EAA, has committed further funding to the Company, demonstrating Njord I-Jet’s confidence in the positive outlook for the business and positioning EAA for growth as it enters the next important phase in its development. The management team’s focus will be on optimising performance improvements and expanding the Company’s current fleet of five Boeing aircraft to meet demand and improving its market-leading ACMI and charter services.

Stewart has deep experience of delivering operational performance improvements in companies across multiple sectors. He has been an Operating Partner with Njord Partners since February 2015, during which time he has held a number of key leadership roles including CEO of Geoquip Marine and CEO of Nuova Deroma, and has held a number of board roles as both a director and Chair. Stewart has received multiple awards and nominations for his instrumental roles in corporate restructurings and turnarounds, including International Turnaround of the Year for DeepOcean in 2012, and for Solidal in 2020. Stewart was a Director at Alix Partners for nine years and is a member of the UK Institute for Turnaround.

American launches airline’s first-ever rotating collection of premium onboard amenities and new meals in major in-flight service upgrade

                                                 American Airlines is heating up the inflight experience ahead of the summer travel season with a wave of premium onboard enhancements to make travel even more enjoyable. Customers will fly in style with a new, reimagined amenity kit series and bedding, and savor new dishes throughout their journey. In the future, customers can anticipate an increasingly elevated experience with the arrival of new Flagship Suite® seats.

“We thoughtfully curate each element of the onboard experience so every customer can look forward to the time they spend in flight,” said Kim Cisek, American’s Vice President of Customer Experience. “Part of the magic of travel is connecting our customers to the people and experiences that matter most to them. We’re taking that concept to the skies by introducing a new, dynamic onboard program that’s inspired by feedback from our customers and team members.”

American worked with a mix of boutique and well-known brands to create a program that will evolve throughout the years and feature rotating kit designs and high-quality skincare products in addition to the new bedding program.

A rotation of stylish new amenities and more

The new program will be on board more than 300 international and transcontinental flights beginning Memorial Day weekend in Flagship® First Class, Flagship® Business Class and Premium Economy cabins.

American’s primary amenity kit will be available yearlong for customers flying in premium cabins. The kit will include staple amenities customers have come to expect while in flight, such as a toothbrush, dental kit, eye mask and earplugs, in addition to new and evolving skincare products and offerings. American will cycle new brands and products within the kits for customers in all premium cabins, creating a unique customer experience several times over, based directly on customer feedback.

American collaborated with beauty retailer Thirteen Lune to curate the skincare offerings, which will feature high-quality beauty brands from Thirteen Lune’s tailored collection with wide-ranging representation of diverse founders and voices such as Joanna Vargas and Relevant.

Limited-edition kits

In addition to these rotating products within the kits, customers will enjoy limited-edition speciality kits created in collaboration with diverse designers and brands based primarily in the U.S. Through the designs of these speciality kits, American will recognize specific milestones and initiatives that reflect the values and backgrounds of the airline’s customers and team members. These limited-edition kits will debut in the months and years ahead.

In fact, the all-new amenity program will launch with a Thirteen Lune speciality kit to introduce customers to the new kit line and the opportunity to start collecting the limited-edition kits. Customers flying in premium cabins will receive the Thirteen Lune kit for the first few weeks of the kickoff to the new program. Customers can then look forward to receiving the primary amenity kit on board throughout the rest of the summer.

Each specialty kit will be available for a limited time on eligible flights in Flagship® First Class, Flagship® Business Class and Premium Economy. Travellers will be able to learn about each brand and partner featured in the speciality kit by scanning a QR code found within the kit.

. Special discount limited time offerSave up to 30% now. 
 

Elevated bedding inspired by customer feedback

Customers will travel in elevated comfort with new bedding, pillows and sleepwear that deliver on customer expectations for a restful experience on board. In American’s research with customers, travellers shared that 75% prefer dual-sided pillows, with different materials on each side of the pillow. Based on this feedback, customers travelling across Flagship® First Class or Flagship® Business Class will enjoy a dual-sided pillow with cool touch fabric on one side, and traditional fabric on the other.

Delivery of a new Airbus A320neo for SAS

Aviation Capital Group LLC, the premier global full-service aircraft asset manager, announced the delivery of one new Airbus A320neo aircraft on long-term lease to Scandinavian Airlines (“SAS”). Featuring CFM International LEAP-1A engines, this is the tenth aircraft scheduled to deliver to the airline as part of a multiple-aircraft sale-leaseback transaction between ACG and SAS.

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

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VINCI Airports buying major stake in Edinburgh Airport for £1.27 billion......

Global Infrastructure Partners confirmed this week that it was selling just over half of Edinburgh Airport to VINCI Airports for  £1.27 billion.

As part of the agreement, GIP and VINCI will jointly lead investment in, and development of, Edinburgh Airport and establish a long-term strategic partnership for the airport's future development, similar to the successful partnership established in 2019 at Gatwick Airport.

Edinburgh Airport's Chairman Sir John Elvidge and Chief Executive Officer Gordon Dewar will, along with other key leaders, remain in their roles. "We are excited to partner with VINCI, with whom we have a strong and productive strategic relationship, to continue to support Edinburgh Airport's future growth," said Bayo Ogunlesi, Global Infrastructure Partners' Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We remain committed to providing high-quality service to passengers. We are very pleased VINCI shares our vision of Edinburgh Airport's future."

"This partnership underlines our commitment to Scotland and its capital city airport. We are excited to extend our partnership with VINCI to deliver on our shared aspirations for the future of Edinburgh Airport, including our promise to support the airport's 2030 sustainability commitments," said Michael McGhee, Global Infrastructure Partners' Deputy Chairman and Founding Partner. "We are pleased the senior leadership team will remain in place under the chairmanship of Sir John Elvidge. Their focus remains on the long-term growth, modernisation and sustainability of the airport and on continuing to improve passenger service."

"We are delighted to announce the expansion of our successful and strategic partnership with GIP to include Edinburgh Airport," said Nicolas Notebaert, Chief Executive Officer of VINCI Concessions and President of VINCI Airports. "Together with GIP, VINCI Airports will continue the strategy of growing connectivity and developing commercial activities, whilst also leveraging VINCI Airport's international expertise to accelerate decarbonization and continually improving customer experience. This acquisition of a third freehold airport in the UK, in addition to London Gatwick and Belfast International, demonstrates VINCI Airports' long term strategic ambition and continued commitment to the country."

25th Anniversary of the invention of the private jet card

Leading private aviation company Sentient Jet marks its 25th anniversary of the founding of the company and commemorates its invention of the jet card concept, which has revolutionized the private aviation industry and transformed the way individuals access private air travel.

Since the company was founded in 1999, it has been committed to leading innovation in the private aviation industry, introducing a first-of-its-kind jet card, driving change in key industry priorities, such as sustainability, and continually evolving its booking process digitally.

Prior to the invention of the jet card, which provides fliers with unprecedented flexibility to purchase flight time in hourly increments, private aviation options were limited to whole aircraft ownership, fractional ownership, and on-demand charter. Recognizing an abundance of excess capacity in the private aviation space, Sentient Jet seized the opportunity to offer a unique way to fly privately, which has since become a "must-have" product for travelers. By selecting and certifying the best aircraft and operators in the private aviation market, Sentient Jet created a uniform pricing standard and framework that laid the foundation for a brand new style of product. With the first ever jet card, Sentient Jet created an entirely new industry segment that offered then unheard-of flexibility and convenience for personal and business travel in private aircrafts at all-inclusive fixed rates with guaranteed availability, seamless booking, and industry-leading value.

In the past 25 years, Sentient Jet has:

Flown more than 1M passengers over 2,500 destinations all over the world

Flown over 228M miles

Grown revenue by 549%

Held nearly 6,700 active Card Owners

Offset a total of over 1,339,235 metric tons of CO2 emissions

“Sentient Jet’s journey began 25 years ago with the invention of the jet card - a concept that has redefined how people fly privately," said Andrew Collins, Co-CEO at Flexjet, Sentient Jet’s parent company. “With several industry firsts - from the jet card to digitizing on-demand booking with text-to-book - Sentient Jet has been instrumental in shaping modern air travel. As we look ahead to the next 25 years and beyond, we remain committed to advancing our industry and providing our Card Owners with nothing short of extraordinary experiences and exceptional service."

“Throughout my career, I have seen several developments and innovations in the private aviation industry, but Sentient Jet’s creation of the Jet Card ranks as one of the most important and revolutionary product developments,” said Kenn Ricci, Flexjet Chairman and Principal of Directional Aviation. “The Jet Card has created a market that previously did not exist and has exposed many new entrants and first time buyers to our industry. Virtually every private aircraft provider uses some form of the product today.”

Disinformation actors spreading 1.5bilion fake news posts each day....

• Facebook users create the highest level of daily disinformation posts (1 billion posts)
• X has the highest proportion of disinformation actors (8.7% of all active users) 
• LinkedIn has the most rampant disinformation actors (each creating 6.6 posts per day) 
• Instagram and YouTube produce the least amount of daily disinformation 
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ID Crypt Global has analysed data from Code of Practice on Disinformation report from TrustLab to understand the rate at which disinformation is being spread through the six main social media platforms - Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube - before conducting its own analysis estimating how many disinformation posts are being created each day, and which platforms are most responsible for the spread of fake news and media. 

The most recent available data* estimates that there are an estimated total of 10.5 billion social media users across the six main platforms.

Facebook boasts the most users with 3 billion people logging onto the platform each month. Facebook is followed by YouTube (2.5bn), Instagram (2bn), TikTok (1.5bn), LinkedIn (771m), and X (619m). 

1.5bn fake news posts created or shared every day on social media

Across all platforms, it is estimated that 5% of users are disinformation actors, which means all in all, there are 516 million users actively spreading fake news and media. 

It is estimated that each disinformation actor creates an average of 3.9 posts per day, meaning that across all platforms, 1.5 billion pieces of disinformation are created or shared every single day. 

Facebook and X host highest volume of disinformation content

ID Crypt’s research reveals that Facebook creates the most pieces of fake news. 

It is estimated that disinformation actors account for 7.8% of all of the platform’s users and that each of them creates an average of 4.3 daily posts. This means Facebook alone is responsible for over one billion fake news posts every single day. 

When it comes to the highest proportion of users being disinformation actors, X is the worst platform.  

8.7% of all X users are disinformation actors and each of them is creating 3.8 daily posts. This means the hugely influential platform is spreading 205 million fake news posts every single day. 

United Airlines reports first-quarter 2024 results

First-quarter diluted loss per share of $0.38; first-quarter adjusted diluted loss per share1 of $0.15 - ahead of expectations

Updates fleet plan - allowing for a more consistent delivery schedule of approximately 100 narrowbody aircraft yearly 2025 through 2027

Achieved second-best first quarter on-time departure performance in the company's history

United Airlines has reported its first-quarter 2024 financial results this week which showed the company had a pre-tax loss of $164 million, a $92 million improvement over the same quarter last year; adjusted pre-tax loss1 of $79 million, a $187 million improvement on an adjusted basis over the same quarter last year. These earnings reflect the approximately $200 million impact from the Boeing 737 MAX 9 grounding, without which the company would have reported a quarterly profit. In the quarter, the company generated $2.8 billion operating cash flow and free cash flow1 of $1.5 billion. The company continues to expect full-year 2024 adjusted diluted earnings per share3 of $9 to $11.

United delivered strong financial and operational performance in the quarter. The demand environment remained strong with a double-digit percentage increase in business demand quarter over quarter, as compared to pre-pandemic. Additionally, the company was able to take advantage of a number of opportunities to adjust domestic capacity which drove meaningful improvements in first quarter profitability. Atlantic and Domestic markets both saw large passenger revenue per available seat mile (PRASM) increases year over year, with 11% and 6% growth respectively.

"I want to thank the United team for working so hard this quarter to deliver strong operational metrics for our customers and sharpen our focus on safety, while producing excellent financial results for our shareholders," said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. "We've adjusted our fleet plan to better reflect the reality of what the manufacturers are able to deliver. And, we'll use those planes to capitalize on an opportunity that only United has: profitably grow our mid-continent hubs and expand our highly profitable international network from our best in the industry coastal hubs."

Fleet Update

United has made several adjustments to its long-term fleet strategy based on future needs of the airline and manufacturers production and delivery timelines that are expected to smooth out and moderate the company's aircraft delivery schedule in the coming years including:

Viva Las Vegas! 10 must-see stops on a West Coast road trip

This June, Manchester will become the only city in the UK outside London to have direct flight to the West Coast of the US as Virgin Atlantic’s new service from Manchester Airport to Las Vegas gets underway.

Many visitors will be headed to Vegas to enjoy its casinos, sports and family attractions, but for others, the city will make the perfect springboard for an epic adventure across the states of Nevada, Arizona and California.

Here, we round up some of the essential pitstops on any West Coast itinerary. You could tick off all of these highlights, and more, on a two-week trip.

Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico celebrate new route between Boston and Mexico City

The Delta-Aeromexico Joint Cooperation Agreement (JCA) is expanding its operations between the United States and Mexico, marking a significant milestone in the aviation industry. Delta and Aeromexico recently celebrated the launch of their new service between Boston (BOS) and Mexico City (MEX) during a ceremony at Logan International Airport. This highly anticipated route, operated by Aeromexico, marks the airline's return to the Massachusetts capital. 

To celebrate this milestone, authorities and special guests gathered for an event at Logan International Airport, including Todd Smith, Director of Aviation Operations for Massport; Felipe Cuellar, Deputy Consul of Mexico in Boston; John Angel, Managing Director of Airport Operations for Delta; and Jose Zapata, Vice President of Sales for North America & Latin America at Aeromexico. 

As part of the celebration, customers who flew on the first flight to Mexico received commemorative gifts as a thank-you for being part of this important event. 

As the Delta-Aeromexico JCA continues to expand its operations, it reinforces its commitment to providing a seamless travel experience and strengthening the connection between the United States and Mexico, our country’s second largest trading partner.  

With a focus on safety, comfort, convenience and customer satisfaction, this partnership is poised to shape the future of cross-border air travel, offering travelers more options and opportunities to explore the rich cultures and destinations of both nations. 

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Nine Airline companies comprise a $30 billion club courtesy of co-branded credit cards

CarTrawler-sponsored research explores the jumbo economics of loyalty programs at Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, IAG, JetBlue, Qantas, Southwest, and United.

Co-branded credit cards deliver wheelbarrows of money for some airlines. The latest IdeaWorksCompany report explores how this has transformed frequent flyer programs (FFPs) and contemplates the effect upon customer loyalty. Many airlines have shifted from sole reliance on behavioural loyalty, which relies upon a customer’s expectations for service and quality. Carriers now embrace transactional loyalty which emphasizes exchange relationships where something is given and something is received. The report advises caution about over-reliance on the co-branding bounty and suggests focusing more on the overall customer experience.

Airline Loyalty Becomes a Billion Dollar Club was issued today as a 16-page report. It describes how airline FFPs generate revenue in the billions and provides abundant analysis and research on the business of co-branded credit cards:

 Delta Air Lines, with 7.5 million SkyMiles credit cards, saw payments from American 

Express jump by 24% to $6.8 billion for 2023.

 IAG (British Airways and Iberia), navigated Europe’s prevalent merchant fee 

restrictions and achieved outstanding Avios partner revenue of £1 billion.

 Southwest generated more than 22% of its 2023 total revenue from its Rapid 

Rewards program and Chase-issued credit card.

 Qantas achieved a revenue result of $96 per Frequent Flyer Program member with 

help from nearly 40 credit card options available to consumers in Australia.

Aileen McCormack, Chief Commercial Officer at CarTrawler commented on the report, “In today's aviation landscape, airlines are vying for price-conscious customers by providing greater rewards for their loyalty. The rise of ‘transactional loyalty’ - where passengers seek more incentives in exchange for their regular custom - has seen huge growth of frequent flyer programmes and co-branded credit cards, which have generated an incredible $30 billion in revenue for a selection of early adopting airlines. 

We understand that customers are seeking additional ways to spend their miles to gain value. This is why CarTrawler works with the world’s leading airlines to enhance their loyalty programmes by offering bespoke car rental earn & redeem functionality down to tier membership status and even fare class."