Budget airline Norwegian enters into agreement to lease two Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets

The budget airline Norwegian has confirmed it was has entered into an agreement to lease two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft that have been declined by other airlines. 

The deal will see each aircraft leased for up to nine years on a ‘power-by-the-hour’ (PBH) arrangement for both the carriers winter 2021/22 and summer seasons. Norwegian has the option, under the agreement, to substitute the subject 737 MAX 8 aircraft for new technology narrow-body aircraft from Airbus. The lessor is well reputed and has a longstanding relationship with Norwegian.

“This agreement is an important step in Norwegian’s plan to build an efficient and modern fleet for the future. The flexibility of ‘power-by-the-hour’ will allow us to manage our capacity through the low season adjusting for variations in seasonal demand,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.

Delivery will begin shortly to enable Norwegian to fulfil the announced Summer 2022 flying programme with approximately 270 routes the airline promised.

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Air Cargo Demand Up 9.4% in October

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released October 2021 data for global air cargo markets showing that demand continued to be well above pre-crisis levels and that the capacity constraints have eased slightly.           “October data reflected an overall positive outlook for air cargo. Supply chain congestion continued to push manufacturers towards the speed of air cargo. Demand was up 9.4% in October compared to pre-crisis levels. And capacity constraints were slowly resolving as more passenger travel meant more belly capacity for air cargo. The impact of government reactions to the Omicron variant is a concern. If it dampens travel demand, capacity issues will become more acute. After almost two years of COVID-19, governments have the experience and tools to make better data-driven decisions than the mostly knee-jerk reactions to restrict travel that we have seen to date. Restrictions will not stop the spread of Omicron. Along with urgently reversing these policy mistakes, the focus of governments should be squarely on ensuring the integrity of supply chains and increasing the distribution of vaccines,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director-General.  As comparisons between 2021 and 2020 monthly results are distorted by the extraordinary impact of COVID-19, unless otherwise noted, all comparisons below are to October 2019 which followed a normal demand pattern. Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs*), was up 9.4% compared to October 2019 (10.4% for international operations).    Capacity constraints have eased slightly but remain 7.2% below pre-COVID-19 levels (October 2019) (-8.0% for international operations).  Economic conditions continue to support air cargo growth but are slightly weaker than in the previous months. Several factors should be noted:  Supply chain disruptions and the resulting delivery delays have led to long supplier delivery times.  This typically results in manufacturers using air transport, which is quicker, to recover time lost during the production process. The global Supplier Delivery Time Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) reached an all-time low of 34.8 in October; values below 50 are favourable for air cargo.   Relevant components of the October PMIs (new export orders and manufacturing output) have been in a gradual slowdown since May but remain in favourable territory.    The inventory-to-sales ratio remains low ahead of the peak year-end retail events such as Christmas. This is positive for air cargo as manufacturers turn to air cargo to rapidly meet demand.    Global goods trade and industrial production remain above pre-crisis levels.    The cost-competitiveness of air cargo relative to that of container shipping remains favourable.

Aeroflot hits net profits of over 11 billion ruble during third-quarter of 2021.

Leading Russian airline Aeroflot has just released its latest results for the third quarter and once again the crunched numbers demonstrate the massive progress the carrier has made in recent months.

The Aeroflot Group recorded a quarterly profit – the first in two years – of RUB 11.6 billion, a major step forward and a clear indication of the way Russian air travel has bounced back. 

Key financial highlights

Q3 2021	9M 2021
Revenue doubled year-on-year to RUB 167,072 million	Revenue increased by 54.7% year-on-year to RUB 362,220 million
EBITDA totalled RUB 54,052 million	EBITDA totalled RUB 95,635 million
Net profit was RUB 11,635 million	Significant reduction in net loss to RUB 16,102 million

 

Andrey Chikhanchin, PJSC Aeroflot’s Deputy CEO for Commerce and Finance, said:

”Our results for the third quarter once again underscore the progress that Aeroflot Group has made in 2021. Continuing the consistent improvement in our financial performance over the past several quarters, in the reporting period Aeroflot Group recorded a quarterly profit – the first in two years – of RUB 11.6 billion.

“A significant contribution to the improvement in our financial results came from increased demand and the resulting growth in operational volumes of Russian domestic flights, which we doubled down on in the high season. During the third quarter, Aeroflot’s passenger numbers on the domestic market were 27.4% higher than the same period in 2019 (before the COVID pandemic). We also took maximum advantage of the gradual lifting of restrictions in the international segment, and this also had a significant positive impact on the results. Whereas our capacity on international flights in January of this year was at just 15.4% of the level of the same period in 2019, by September this metric had recovered to 43.1%.

“This recovery in flight volumes supported growth in revenue, which reached RUB 167.1 billion in the third quarter. EBITDA, which had turned positive in the first quarter of this year, also continued to grow and reached RUB 54.1 billion for the third quarter of 2021, 2.7 times higher than in the same period of 2020. The EBITDA margin was 32.4%, which is comparable with our pre-pandemic performance, given the impact of the pandemic and the resulting restrictions on forward booking timeframes, profitability in the domestic segment and load factors.

“As of the end of the reporting period, Aeroflot Group had cash and short-term financial investments totalling RUB 93.3 billion. The seasonal reduction compared to June is due to our fulfilment of commitments to passengers under bookings made before the start of the summer season, and is comparable with historical trends. Aeroflot Group is entering the new season, when cash burn traditionally increases, with a high level of reserves. We intend to maintain strict control over management of cost lines to maintain financial resilience through to the start of the next seasonal cycle of increased sales and reservations and positive cash flow.”

 

Aviation Capital Group becomes a Silver Level sponsor of rapid-response nonprofit organization

Aviation Capital Group, a leading aircraft asset manager has confirmed its sponsorship at the “Silver Level” of Airlink, a rapid-response nonprofit organization that coordinates with airlines and non-governmental organizations to provide free and heavily subsidized airlift to a network of over 130 humanitarian relief nonprofit organizations supporting communities in the aftermath of natural and man-made disasters worldwide.

“The global aviation industry connects the world.  Airlink’s mission underscores how this connectivity can be harnessed to bring critical relief to communities in desperate need.  ACG’s core values are grounded in social responsibility and we are proud to support Airlink in its service to these communities,” said Tom Baker, CEO and president of ACG.

“We are thrilled that Aviation Capital Group has become an Airlink sponsor,” said Steven J. Smith, President and CEO of Airlink. “I want to thank the ACG team for their generous support, which will help bring humanitarian aid and hope to millions of people across the globe.” 

Airlink provides free and heavily subsidized flights and air transport for pre-screened nonprofits to deliver disaster responders and supplies in the wake of humanitarian crises worldwide. Its network includes more than 130 aid organizations and 47 commercial and charter airlines. Its first mission was in response to the Haiti earthquake. Since its inception in 2010, Airlink has provided flights for nearly 8,000 relief workers and transported more than 4,000,000 pounds of humanitarian cargo. In 2020 the humanitarian aid Airlink moved assisted 5.5 million people.

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Aeroflot restarts flights to Havana

 

                                           Aeroflot has resumed regular flights to Havana, Cuba. Starting from 21 December, two weekly flights will operate on Tuesdays and Fridays. Ticket sales are open on the website.  

Flights to Havana will be operated on the Airbus A350, the newest type of aircraft in Aeroflot’s fleet. Thу A350 has a spacious three-class cabin layout with 316 seats: 28 private business class Suites, including 2-metre full-flat beds; 24 Comfort economy seats with extra legroom; and 264 Economy class seats. 

The long transatlantic flight onboard Aeroflot’s aircraft will be enjoyable and comfortable for travellers. Passengers in all classes will enjoy the latest generation in-flight entertainment system, landscape cameras and Wi-Fi connectivity*. Economy Class offers increased legroom and seat pitch (78.7 cm). In Comfort Class, passengers will savour the special menu, and appreciate the seats with enhanced recline angle, 33cm screens, individual lighting and sockets to recharge mobile devices. The Business Class Suites offer an unprecedented level of comfort and privacy. The Suites come fitted with 54 cm screens and 2-metre full-flat beds.

Havana is the largest city and the capital of Cuba. The unique architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the city attract tourists. Thanks to the good transportation service Havana is a convenient starting point to explore the central part of the Island and the famous Cuban beaches.  

Havana will be Aeroflot’s second destination in Cuba. From June 2021, Aeroflot has offered three weekly flights to the resort city of Varadero.

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SAS says Q4 2021 Year-end results burdened by the pandemic

SAS has released its latest results and says that whilst demand and ticket sales are increasing, there remain uncertainties that continue to affect the ramp-up of its route network and return to pre-pandemic levels. 

AUGUST 2021–OCTOBER 2021

• Revenue: MSEK 5,762 (3,035)
• Income before tax (EBT): MSEK -945 (-3,252)
• Income before tax and items affecting comparability: MSEK -911 (-3,024)
• Net income for the period: MSEK -744 (-2,566)
• Earnings per common share: SEK -0.12 (-4.44)

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS DURING THE QUARTER

• During the quarter, the number of passengers increased and more tickets were sold
• Operations were scaled up to meet demand while more destinations opened up
• SAS signed an agreement for the pre-delivery payment financing of about USD 100 million, covering ten A320neo aircraft with deliveries into Q2 FY2023

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS AFTER THE QUARTER

• SAS established a partnership with Vattenfall, Shell and LanzaTech to investigate large-scale production of synthetic sustainable aviation fuel

NOVEMBER 2020–OCTOBER 2021

• Revenue: MSEK 13,958 (20,513)
• Income before tax (EBT): MSEK -6,525 (-10,097)
• Income before tax and items affecting comparability: MSEK -6,382 (-8,565)
• Net income for the period: MSEK -6,523 (-9,232)
• Earnings per common share: SEK -0.94 (-21.45)

UK and Poland collaborate on multi-billion pound Polish air defence systems

A landmark agreement has been reached between Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak to cooperate on Poland’s future air defence system.

A first for the UK-Poland relationship, the Statement of Intent will see the two countries share pioneering technology to develop NAREW, Poland’s future Ground-Based Air Defence System, which is anticipated to have a multi-billion-pound budget.

The agreement will provide enhanced security and defence development for both countries while developing and sustaining critical skills across the missile sector in Poland and the UK.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "This agreement will deliver a step change in our defence co-operation with Poland and paves the way for our militaries to operate even more closely.

Minister Błaszczak and I look forward to seeing the GBAD partnership develop.

Britain and Poland have historically stood side by side against a range of threats and will continue to deepen our partnership."

In the UK, MBDA’s Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM) family has been confirmed for the NAREW programme. Flying at supersonic speeds, CAMM missiles can destroy modern air threats including stealth aircraft and high-speed missiles. Each CAMM family missile is equipped with an advanced active radar seeker that can see even the smallest, fastest and stealthiest targets through the worst weather and the heaviest electronic jamming.

Chris Allam, Managing Director MBDA UK:  "MBDA is delighted to be playing such a leading role in the UK-Poland Defence partnership. This agreement endorses the deep relationship we have formed with Poland’s Ministry of National Defence and Polish Industry and is underpinned by the nature of our unprecedented technology co-operation and transfer proposal for NAREW and Polish Air Defence.

In choosing MBDA, and the CAMM family, Poland will receive the benefits of a true European missile partnership, the latest capabilities, and the ability to secure and develop highly skilled jobs in its defence industry. We thank Poland for the trust placed in us and we look forward to delivering this programme in co-operation with PGZ."

New Chief Financial Officer of Norwegian named.

Hans-Jørgen Wibstad has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of Norwegian. He will take up the position no later than June 1st 2022.

“I look forward to welcoming Hans-Jørgen Wibstad to our management team. His strategic mindset and extensive experience in finance and management will be highly appreciated, and I am confident he has the right background and experience for Norwegian going forward,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.

Hans-Jørgen Wibstad currently serves as EVP & CFO in Multiconsult ASA. He has more than 20 years’ experience from various CFO and management roles within industry, shipbuilding, shipping and offshore, including CFO in Kongsberg Gruppen. He also has broad experience from the financial markets, including having worked as a senior corporate banker for several years. “I am truly excited about this opportunity. Norwegian is a market-leading low-cost airline with a strong brand and loyal customer base. As the aviation industry begins to return to normality, I look forward to building on my competence and experience and working with a dynamic and solid leadership team to build a strong Norwegian,” said Hans-Jørgen Wibstad.

Mr. Wibstad, a Norwegian citizen, was born in 1964. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Colorado at Boulder, USA. Wibstad will replace Geir Karlsen, who serves as both CFO and CEO.

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JetBlue Donates Two Million TrueBlue Points to Charitable Organizations

JetBlue has confirmed as part of its as JetBlue For Good Month is donating two million TrueBlue points to a number of key charities. New York's hometown airline is also encouraging its customers to join the effort to give back by donating their TrueBlue loyalty points to help these nonprofits continue their important work. TrueBlue members can donate points to JetBlue’s longstanding partners including Make-A-Wish®, Miles4Migrants and The DREAM Project, among other causes.

TrueBlue members are invited to go online to donate their unused TrueBlue points by visiting trueblue.jetblue.com/donate-points. Members may choose from a list of selected charities to which to donate points, highlighting causes that may be important to them. Each charity can put the points to work for travel necessary to advance its mission.

“JetBlue For Good Month is not only a time to focus on giving back, it serves as a reminder of what JetBlue with our 21,000 crewmembers does all year round,” said Icema Gibbs, vice president, corporate social responsibility and diversity, equity and inclusion, JetBlue. “Since our beginning, JetBlue has been committed to giving back to the communities where we work and serve. With the pandemic disrupting so much over the last 21 months and so much on pause, we’re grateful these worthy organizations have been able to persevere in the face of adversity. We’re proud that JetBlue’s crewmembers and customers are a part of the effort.”

Harry Taylor becomes interim President and CEO of WestJet Group

The WestJet Group announced that Harry Taylor has officially assumed the role of interim President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The WestJet group announced Taylor as the interim President and CEO on September 15, 2021, following news of Ed Sims retirement announced on June 9, 2021.

"I am honoured to take on the interim role of CEO at this pivotal time for the WestJet Group, and am focused on our relentless commitment to safety above all while ensuring continuity for our recovery, as we rebuild our airlines for our guests and our people," said Harry Taylor, interim President and CEO. "By the end of the year, we will return our entire fleet to service for the peak holiday travel season, connecting loved ones and fulfilling long awaited vacations plans. I look forward to leading our organization through this crucial phase of our recovery, while we continue our search for a permanent CEO." 

BARIG on the New Coalition Agreement in Germany

BARIG on the New Coalition Agreement in Germany:

Opportunities for Further Development of Climate-friendly and Economically Viable Air Traffic

 “Seeking More Progress” 

The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) welcomes a whole series of plans and projects that are presented by the so-called “traffic light” parties in the coalition agreement for the new federal government in Germany. From the international airline association’s point of view, the agreement provides a basis for the further development of air traffic in a targeted manner and with regard to economic efficiency, fair competitive conditions as well as sustainability and climate protection – nationally as well as in a European and global context.

 

BARIG Secretary General Michael Hoppe comments accordingly: “The new German government’s work will be primarily determined by the slogan ‘Seeking More Progress.’  We see this and the corresponding announcements in the coalition agreement as a positive signal for good and future-oriented support in further modernizing and stabilizing air traffic in line with the environmental and climate protection objectives.”

 

BARIG welcomes, inter alia, the following plans of the traffic light coalition:

easyJet extends Protection Promise policy for 2022 including fee free flight changes

easyJet will continue to offer protections under its ‘Protection Promise’ policy in 2022

‘Freedom to Change’ policy will be extended to 31 March 2022, meaning customers can continue to change their flights fee free

‘Travel Restriction Protection’ will remain in place until 31 December 2022 so should a trip be impacted by a lockdown travel ban or mandatory hotel quarantine customers can receive a refund for their flights, even if they are still operating

All easyJet holidays also continue to be covered by its Protection Promise until further notice

 

easyJet has announced it is extending its flexible policies under its ‘Protection Promise’, to continue providing customers with peace of mind when booking their flights.

During the pandemic easyJet introduced some of the most generous and flexible policies to help customers navigate the frequently changing restrictions, with no change fees for flight changes up to two hours before departure. While many other airlines have already re-introduced charges, easyJet is continuing to maintain this flexibility in 2022.

 Now, until 31 March 2022, all easyJet customers can continue to make changes to their flights without a change fee up to two hours before departure, providing even more last-minute flexibility. There are no restrictions on dates or destination; customers with both new and existing bookings can transfer to any flights currently on sale up to the end of September 2022, and to any other destination on the airline’s network which spans 35 countries across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. This means that if there are some travel restrictions impacting their destination country, customers can easily change their trip to another country on easyJet’s network.

 To ensure customers remain protected from pandemic related issues, easyJet’s existing Travel Restriction Protection for flights will remain in place until 31 December 2022. This means that if a lockdown travel ban or a hotel quarantine is imposed, customers will be able to receive a refund, or a voucher, or will be able to transfer their flight free of charge, even if their flight continues to operate. 

Cebu Pacific receives first A330neo

Cebu Pacific has taken delivery of its first A330neo as it begins its widebody fleet modernisation programme.

The aircraft is configured with 459 seats in single-class layout and will be operated by the airline on trunk routes within the Philippines and the rest of Asia, as well as on longer range services to Australia and the Middle East. The A330neo offers versatility for a wide range of routes from shorter regional services to medium and long haul operations.

Altogether Cebu Pacific has ordered 16 A330neo, and also has 16 A320neo and 22 A321neo outstanding to be delivered. The low-cost carrier currently operates 50 Airbus aircraft, comprising 43 A320 Family and 7 A330ceo.

The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce’s latest-generation Trent 7000 engines and features a new composite wing with increased span for enhanced aerodynamics.

The A330neo brings a step change in efficiency, consuming 25% less fuel than previous generation aircraft and a similar reduction in CO2 emissions. The outstanding efficiency of the A330neo also ensures compliance with current and future sustainability requirements in terms of noise and emissions

With an order book of more than 1,800 aircraft at the end of October 2021, the A330 remains the most popular widebody family aircraft of all time.

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WestJet announces Karl Schuster as Executive Vice-President and Chief Loyalty Officer

WestJet announced the appointment of Karl Schuster, as the airline's Executive Vice-President and Chief Loyalty Officer (CLO). Schuster will join the WestJet executive leadership team in early 2022, following the completion of the immigration process.   

Schuster has over 19 years of loyalty experience, including six years as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Velocity Frequent Flyer, Virgin Australia's award-winning loyalty program. During his time at Virgin Australia, Schuster grew Velocity to be one of the largest loyalty programs in Australia, significantly increasing their annual revenue; increasing membership subscribers to 10 million, from their previous 5.3 million members; and growing partnerships with noteworthy brands across the country. Prior to his time at Velocity, Schuster lead multi-year loyalty programs for Qantas, British Airways and Malaysian Airlines and provided consulting advice to a diverse range of airlines in his nearly 15 years at Aimia Inc.

"Karl has an impressive history of driving exponential growth for a diverse range of loyalty programs and delivering results through innovation and strategy," said Harry Taylor, WestJet Interim President and CEO. "We are looking forward to welcoming Karl to WestJet; his breadth of experience will elevate WestJet's loyalty program to new heights." 

Air Lease Corporation Announces Delivery of First of Six New Airbus A321-200neo Aircraft to China Airlines

Air Lease Corporation Announces Delivery of First of Six New Airbus A321-200neo Aircraft to China Airlines

Air Lease Corporation announced the delivery of one new Airbus A321-200neo aircraft on long-term lease to China Airlines.  Featuring Pratt & Whitney PW1133G-JM engines, this is the first of six new A321-200neos confirmed to deliver to the airline from ALC’s order book with Airbus.  This aircraft is the first A321neo to deliver to China Airlines.

“ALC is honoured to be the first to introduce the A321neo to our long-time customer China Airlines.  The A321neo will become the backbone of China Airlines’ single-aisle fleet, providing fleet expansion and modernization, and elevation of their passenger experience to new levels.  The greater fuel efficiency and operating flexibility of the A321neo will also maximize profitability and further China Airlines environmental sustainability goals,” said John L. Plueger, Chief Executive Officer and President of Air Lease Corporation.  

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Qatar Airways Gears Up for FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021™ as Official Airline Partner

From 30 November – 18 December, the much-awaited tournament will serve as an opportunity to show Qatar’s preparedness ahead of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Privilege Club members can earn double the Qmiles by booking a custom-made tournament package, inclusive of return flights, match tickets and accommodation

 The first ever FIFA Arab Cup™ will take place in Qatar from 30 November to 18 December, with Qatar Airways as the Official Airline Partner of the tournament.

With 16 participating nations, fans can now look forward to the tournament with a host of exclusive Qatar Airways Holidays packages on offer from the airline, which will be the first touchpoint for the majority of football fans, players and coaching staff for the duration of their stay in Doha. The qualifying countries have been drawn in four groups: Group A: Qatar, Iraq, Oman and Bahrain; Group B: Tunisia, UAE, Syri­­­­a and Mauritania; Group C: Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Palestine and Group D: Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon and Sudan.

In support of the event, Qatar Airways Holidays has launched a range of travel packages for the inaugural FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021™ welcoming global football fans to enjoy the finest Qatari hospitality and cheer their favourite team in person.

Fans will be offered the flexibility to build their own package for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021™ which includes flights with Qatar Airways, the Official Airline Partner of FIFA. The ‘Build Your Own’ feature will offer the functionality to choose their preferred travel dates, hotel accommodation and match tickets. Customers can secure access to bookings by visiting qatarairwaysholidays.com/arabcup.

Emirates signs codeshare agreement with airBaltic

Emirates has signed a codeshare agreement with airBaltic to offer customers enhanced connectivity to/from Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania and Finland. The codeshare partnership will open new travel opportunities and offer Emirates’ customers convenient access to the Baltic Sea region. airBalitc customers’ will also benefit from seamless access to Emirates’ extensive network, via Dubai.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We’re very pleased to announce a new partnership with airBaltic, the leading airline in the Baltics, which enables us to offer Emirates customers even more travel choices and connectivity in the Baltic region. It will also open up Emirates’ exciting network of global destinations to more travellers from the Baltics. We look forward to the start of a successful partnership.”

Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic: “Emirates is a truly global connectivity provider, and we are excited to start a new partnership alongside direct flights between Riga and Dubai which we commenced in September. The new partnership will enable our passengers to reach new exciting destinations in Asia, Australia and beyond.”

The codeshare agreement will offer customers from key markets across the Middle East, West Asia, Far East and Australia, greater access and connectivity to the Baltic States.

Emirates will place its “EK” marketed code on airBaltic flights operated between: Dubai - Riga (Latvia); Riga - Tallin (Estonia); Riga - Vilnius (Lithuania); and Riga - Helsinki (Finland). airBalitc will also place its “BT” marketed code on Emirates’ routes between: Dubai - Bangkok (Thailand); and Dubai - Jakarta (Indonesia).

The partnership will also offer customers added travel benefits including seamless booking with a single-ticket, competitive fares and one baggage policy. Tickets can be purchased on emirates.com, online travel agencies and local travel agents. Customers can book flights for travel starting 29 November 2021.*

Emirates currently has codeshare agreements in place with 22 airline partners and two rail companies. The airline also has an interline agreement with over 115 airlines and rail companies.

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Emirates Group proudly marks UAE’s 50th National Day

Emirates Group today celebrated the UAE’s 50th National Day with a range of activities that reflect the country’s unique heritage and history.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, launched the celebrations with a cake-cutting ceremony to commemorate the nation’s golden jubilee. Sheikh Ahmed then toured the exhibits and activities, alongside the Group’s Emirati employees and their expat colleagues, who represent the diverse talent pool that make up the Group and the UAE.

The Emirates Group Headquarters was abuzz with a range of celebratory activity. Cultural highlights included a heritage village, which featured henna art, an Emirati-themed photo booth, and an Emirati group that performed Al-Ayyala; a traditional local dance that symbolizes the country’s identity and union.

Declared ‘The Year of The 50th’ by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, 2021 is the UAE’s golden jubilee. On this occasion, there are nation-wide celebrations of the UAE leadership’s vision and achievements, as well as its boundless ambitions for the next 50 years. Emirates also marked the nation’s special anniversary earlier this year by unveiling a custom 'United Arab Emirates 50' livery on a number of its Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A380 aircraft., taking the nation’s milestone message to destinations across its global network.

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Ethiopian Airlines finalizes preparations for the launch of Zambia’s National Carrier - Zambia Airways

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest aviation group in Africa, is pleased to announce that it has finalized preparations for the launch of Zambia’s National Carrier in a joint venture with Industrial Development Corporation Limited (IDC). Ethiopian has a 45 percent stake in the joint venture while Industrial Development Corporation Limited (IDC) retains 55 per cent, the shareholders have contributed USD30 million in capital towards the establishment of the airline. 

The new Zambia Airways (ZN) is to join African sky with its initial domestic flight from  Lusaka to Ndola on 1st December 2021 and it will operate at a frequency of six and five times a week to Ndola and Livingstone, respectively. Other domestic routes to Mfuwe and Solwezi will follow before introducing regional destinations, to Johannesburg and  Harare, to its network within the first quarter of 2022. 

Mr Tewolde GebreMariam, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines remarked: “The strategic equity partnership in the launching of Zambia’s national carrier is part of our Vision 2025 multiple hub strategy in Africa. Ethiopian is committed to its growth plan in collaboration with African carriers and the new Zambia Airways will serve as a strong hub in Central and Southern Africa availing domestic, regional and eventually international air connectivity for passengers and cargo to the major destinations in the Middle East, Europe and Asia, which will enhance the socio-economic integration and tourism industry in Zambia and the region” 

Through its multiple hubs strategies in Africa, Ethiopian currently operates hubs in Lomé  (Togo) with ASKY Airlines, Malawian in Lilongwe (Malawi), Tchadia in N’Djamena  (Chad) and Ethiopian Mozambique in Maputo (Mozambique) while having the already acquired stakes in Guinea’s and Democratic Republic of Congo’s national carriers.

Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its seventy-five years of operation, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers,  unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the Pan-African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 130 international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian fleet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Airbus A350, Boeing 787-8, Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR,  Boeing 777-200 Freighter, Bombardier Q-400 double cabin with an average fleet age of five years. In fact, Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own and operate these aircraft. 

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Finnair makes travelling easier by digitalising coronavirus certificate checks

Finnair makes travelling easier by digitalising coronavirus certificate checks

Checking coronavirus related certificates is an important part of international travel today and requires effort from both travellers and airlines. Finnair now introduces a new digital tool with which customers can confirm their coronavirus certificates before their journey. The service is available as of 3 December 2021 for travellers from Finland to Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Switzerland as part of the current check-in done online or through the Finnair app. The current list of countries is subject to change due to, for example, additional authority travel requirements. The tool will be expanded to other destination countries at a later stage.

The new tool digitalises parts of the current paper documentation system for corona related travel document management and checks at airports. With the tool, people travelling to the included destinations can confirm that they have the corona certificates required by the destination authorities. Travellers can do this as part of the check-in online or through the Finnair app. Customers will get a “clear to travel” confirmation together with an online boarding pass. No certificate checks are needed at the airport. However, corona related travel documents may be asked at the destination.

“The tool is designed to make travelling smoother for our customers, as they can go directly to bag drop or via security check to the boarding gate, without having to show their corona certificates at the airport. They can also travel with more peace of mind, as they already know in advance that their documents are confirmed,” states Sami Suokas, responsible for airport customer processes at Finnair. Authorities may still check documents on arrival, so customers must be prepared to present them. It is always the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have the relevant documentation for entry.

The new tool will be introduced in two phases. On 3 December 2021, customers travelling from Finland to Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Switzerland will be able to use it. Early next year, we will add an upload functionality into the tool, which enables customers to upload or scan their corona certificates for verification. With this feature in place, the service will become available for more destinations and customers.

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WestJet and TELUS partner on Trusted Boarding trial

WestJet, together with TELUS, trialled Trusted Boarding, a touchless process that uses safe and secure facial verification technology to verify travellers' identity prior to boarding a flight. The trial was the first-of-its-kind in Canada and took place at the YYC Calgary International Airport.

"The travel experience is evolving to include many touchless processes and WestJet is innovating to ensure our guests' travel journey improves to become more seamless and efficient, while prioritizing safety above all," said Stuart McDonald, Executive Vice-President and Chief Information Officer. "The Trusted Boarding trial is a union between technology and WestJet that would in the future help our agents and our guests with contactless document validation." 

WestJet's Trusted Boarding trial demonstrated that the responsible use of biometric boarding technology provides sufficient document validation and prevents non-authorized individuals from boarding an aircraft. Trial guests boarded WestJet flight 8901 through facial verification with their digital identity wallet on Embross' Canadian made biometric hardware and boarding application at Gate 88. The trial marked the first step towards the implementation of the technology as WestJet works with the Government of Canada to seek full approval for its use as a safe and secure alternative for future WestJet boarding at Canadian airports. 

easyJet launches first ever festive ‘Advent(ure) Calendar’

easyJet launches first ever festive ‘Advent(ure) Calendar’

The airline is launching its first ever, limited-edition advent calendar featuring festive travel treats

·    Dubbed the ‘Advent(ure) Calendar’ it is created for adventurous travellers who want more experiences in 2022, the calendar features 12 drawers each containing a travel gift – including four pairs of return flights for two, a year’s easyJet plus membership worth £215, travel experience vouchers with GetYourGuide, car hire and Bistro vouchers to spend onboard

·      Retailing for £695, with a RRP value of over £1500, the limited run of calendars is on sale online from Friday 26th November 2021 – with all proceeds going to Age UK

·      The launch of the calendar comes following research that reveals nearly two-thirds (65%) of Brits are yearning for adventure in 2022 now that international travel is returning to normal.

 

Budget Airline easyJet has launched its first ever festive ‘Advent(ure) Calendar’, filled with extraordinary travel experiences and extras. The new, limited-edition product features 12 drawers each containing special travel treats to be enjoyed next year.  

The calendar includes four pairs of return flights for two including hold luggage, as well as one year’s easyJet plus membership worth £215, vouchers to spend on easyJet’s onboard Bistro and on tours and excursions with ‘GetYourGuide’, as well as car hire, all for people to enjoy more adventures abroad in 2022.

The easyJet Advent(ure) Calendar is  on sale from Friday 26th November 2021 at easyJet.com/advent-calendar. Priced at £695, the calendar offers amazing value with the flights, experiences and travel extras included worth over £1500. All proceeds of the sales from the calendars will be donated to Age UK Bedford.

The airline has launched the calendar following new research that revealed adventuring abroad was the number one desire for Brits when it comes to planning for 2022, just in time for giving the gift of adventure this festive season. The nationwide study also discovered that over half (52%) of Brits said that planning trips and adventures abroad are top of their priority list.  This Christmas, half of Brits (50%) said they would prefer the gift of travel and adventure over material gifts – with 56% preferring experiences over physical presents.

First ever naval combat H225M delivered to the Brazilian Navy

Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H225M in naval combat configuration to the Brazilian Navy. Stationed at the naval base in São Pedro d'Aldeia, the aircraft will boost the Brazilian Navy’s mission capabilities including anti-surface warfare and maritime surveillance.

 

Developed by the engineering team at Helibras (the Brazilian subsidiary of Airbus Helicopters), this naval version of the H225M aircraft is the most complex configuration that has ever been produced for this multirole helicopter. The aircraft’s embedded systems include the EWS IDAS-3 (countermeasure system), MBDA Exocet AM39 B2M2 missiles, the APS143 tactical radar and the naval mission system N-TDMS (Naval Tactical Data Management System) developed in partnership with Atech and Airbus Defense and Space, which is responsible for making the command and control of all embedded systems, including the missile system.

“We are very proud of this achievement, which proves the industrial and technological capability of the Airbus Helicopters teams in France and Brazil to deliver one of the most modern solutions in the world to the Brazilian Armed Forces," said Alberto Robles, Head of Latin America at Airbus Helicopters. "Designed to meet the most demanding requirements of the Brazilian Navy, the advanced anti-surface warfare and tactical capabilities open new mission capabilities for the H225M utility helicopter."

 

The last stage of the firing campaign with the Exocet AM39 B2M2 missiles was successfully carried out last June, representing a major milestone in the programme, which led the way to qualification and delivery.

The naval H225M is part of the contract signed by the Brazilian government in 2008 and which includes 50 H225Ms to be operated by the three armed forces. So far, 39 H225Ms have been delivered to the Brazilian Armed Forces, all of them assembled locally by Helibras.

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Transaction process started at bankrupt Frankfurt-Hahn Airport in Germany

The provisional insolvency administrator of the companies of the Frankfurt-Hahn Airport Group, Dr Jan Markus Plathner, has commissioned the renowned Düsseldorf-based M&A consultancy Falkensteg to look for one or more investors for the German Frankfurt-Hahn Airport Group or its assets including the property. Investors have the option of acquiring all assets, units to be defined or single assets. Among other things, Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (ICAO code: EDFH) in Rhineland-Palatinate is comprised of various operating properties and expansion areas, a 3,800-metre runway, as well as a 24-hour operating permit which enables flight operations around the clock, 365 days a year.

Several airlines offer numerous connections in passenger traffic, worldwide cargo connections are also in existence. At the airport, hangars with a separate truck access road are available for air cargo handling. Since 2017, the demand for air cargo has been steadily increasing at Frankfurt-Hahn Airport. A total of around 233,000 tonnes were handled in 2020, making Frankfurt-Hahn the number 4 in German air cargo, after the airports of Frankfurt am Main, Leipzig/Halle and Cologne/Bonn, and well ahead of the air traffic hub Munich. Frankfurt-Hahn is located in the middle of one of the most important economic areas in Europe: the so-called "Blue Banana", which stretches across western Europe from Marseille to London via Switzerland, western Germany and the Benelux countries.

Falkensteg will conduct a broad market approach addressing national and international investors in a public tender procedure. Interested parties will be informed about Frankfurt-Hahn Airport by means of a special data room.

Qantas international flights from Melbourne resumed this week, for the first time in 20 months

Qantas international flights from Melbourne take off again this week for the first time in 20 months after the pandemic grounded international travel.

The national carrier will recommence scheduled international flights from Melbourne today with flight QF35 bound for Singapore departing at 11.50am.

Qantas has also announced it will launch a brand-new international route from Melbourne to Delhi from 22 December 2021, connecting Victoria to the Indian capital on a Qantas-operated flight for the first time in the airline’s history.

The new Melbourne-Delhi flight will operate four times a week, year-round. Same-day connections will also be available from Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra. Flights from Melbourne to Delhi will initially operate via Adelaide, while flights from Delhi to Melbourne will operate nonstop.

This follows the recent announcement of flights from Sydney to Delhi, which start next month. When this route went on sale, Qantas saw the fastest booking surge for flights leaving Australia since the airline announced its international restart plans in August.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the relaunch of international flights from Victoria will pave the way for long-awaited reunions with loved ones, as well as help the state retain its position as one of Australia’s premier destinations for global travellers.

“Victorians have done it tougher than most over the past two years and we think many will see the restart of Qantas international flights as another important step towards life getting back to normal,” Mr Joyce said.