08 December, 2021

Alaska Airlines is the Merrier Carrier


Alaska Airlines is the 'Merrier Carrier' this holiday season as it celebrates the festive period with a number of changes and additions. The airline unveiled its newest special-edition aircraft featuring one of its favourite hometown friends, Starbucks. 

The aeroplane, with the registration N238AK showcases Starbucks famous red cups filled with their signature holiday drinks. The Boeing 737-900ER made its inaugural flight from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago (ORD) earlier this week and is scheduled to fly throughout the network this holiday season.

Starbucks and Alaska will provide 50 flights with reusable holiday cups and treats through Dec.12. Alaska will also offset the carbon impacts of these flights through The Good Traveler program, as part of the carrier's commitment to be carbon net-zero by 2040.

May your days be cozy {and bright}

In celebration of National Ugly Holiday Sweater Day, Alaska's famous holiday sweaters are back to make the holiday season cosy. Guests who wear their festive holiday sweaters to the airport on December 17th can board early across Alaska's expansive network. This year's design is now available for presale at Alaska's Company Store.

Any guest wearing an ugly holiday sweater this holiday season can purchase a day pass to one of the nine lounges, located in Anchorage (ANC), New York (JFK), Portland (PDX), San Francisco (SFO), and Seattle (SEA) for just $25 for immediate use!

Most wonderful time of the year to give back!

The LIFT Miles programme offers Mileage Plan™ members a unique and meaningful way to support important causes. Miles donated to this program help charities with business travel, accommodation of special organization requests and achievement of the organization's mission. In the spirit of the season, we are donating a million miles to various LIFT mile partners.



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WestJet Cargo and SmartKargo partner on innovative digital transformation

WestJet Cargo and SmartKargo today announced a partnership that will provide extensive digital solutions to enhance and transform the airline's air cargo business. In 2022, SmartKargo, a comprehensive cargo information management solution, will implement innovative software that will provide a streamlined user experience for WestJet Cargo customers.

"As we witness record-setting cargo volumes, we are making strategic investments in our technology, our aircraft and our people," said Charles Duncan, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Cargo. "Our partnership with SmartKargo signifies an integral step forward in the digital transformation of our business. We look forward to working in lockstep with SmartKargo to digitize our business and deliver an improved user experience to our valued customers."

Together with SmartKargo, WestJet Cargo customers will realize an enhanced experience through paperless shipment documentation, ease of booking, and the ability to track their shipments in real-time as well as access important information and updates through a mobile and browser-friendly cloud platform.

"On behalf of the SmartKargo team, we are very excited to add WestJet to our list of valued airline clients, who have placed their trust in us to transform their cargo business," said Milind Tavshikar, Chief Executive Officer, QuantumID Technologies, SmartKargo. "We look forward to supporting their growth and enabling new opportunities in the marketplace as they arise."

In the coming months, the two businesses will work expediently, to integrate and implement SmartKargo's digital solutions with WestJet Cargo's existing systems and supply chain providers.

As WestJet Cargo continues to grow, so too will its team, network and flight plans. To learn more about how WestJet Cargo can fulfil shipping needs, or to discover incredible employment opportunities, visit WestJet Cargo






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Breeze Airways to launch new services from New York’s Long Island MacArthur Airport and Palm Beach International Airport



Breeze Airways the U.S. low-fare airline, is adding new eight new routes in February from New York’s Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), its first new market additions since the carrier started in May. The new cities are Breeze’s 17th and 18th destinations and will expand the carrier’s network to 42 routes.

Breeze will inaugurate four weekly roundtrip flights between Islip and Norfolk, VA, on February 17, on Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays. On February 18, Breeze will introduce twice-weekly roundtrips between Islip and Charleston, SC, on Fridays and Mondays. Fares will start at $39 one-way.

The airline then will add Saturday-only roundtrip flights from Palm Beach (PBI) to six cities starting February 19: Akron/Canton, OH; Charleston, SC; Columbus, OH; New Orleans, LA; Norfolk, VA; and Richmond, VA. Fares from Palm Beach to Charleston and New Orleans will start at $39 one-way, while PBI to Akron/Canton, Columbus, Norfolk and Richmond will start at $59 one-way.

“Breeze Airways holds a special place in our hearts. We’ve been watching Breeze carefully since David Neeleman first visualized the carrier. We had the opportunity to show Breeze Long Island hospitality during the US Department of Transportation air carrier certification process. We believe our professionalism, perseverance, and community support helped showcase our area bringing this exciting new service to fruition,” said Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter.

United Airlines Names Nike, Inc. CFO Matthew Friend to Board of Directors

 United Airlines announced this week
that Matthew Friend will join its Board of Directors. Friend, currently Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Nike, Inc., brings more than two decades of corporate finance and strategy experience to the airline's Board.


"As we emerge from the pandemic as a leader in the industry and stand ready to accelerate our business, United will benefit greatly from Matt's deep financial acumen and stewardship of one of the leading consumer brands on the planet," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "Plus, his years of global corporate experience will help inform our effort to continue to be a force for good across the country and around the world."


"Any time we bring on a new board member, we're focused on adding experienced leaders with skill sets and unique perspectives that will benefit United," said Ted Philip, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "As the world reopens and travel demand continues to surge back, the United Board will benefit from Matt's extensive global finance, strategy and business planning skills to help guide the airline as it charts a successful future."


"United has shown real leadership over the past 18 months and has worked to redefine itself in the eyes of its employees, customers and the communities it serves," said Friend. "The airline is determined to capitalize on this momentum, and I'm thrilled to join the board at this exciting time in its history."


Friend was named EVP and CFO of Nike, Inc. in March 2020. Since then, he has helped steer Nike through a significant business transformation. Previously, Friend held the roles of CFO for Nike Operating Segments and VP of Investor Relations. He has also served as CFO of Nike Brand, Global Brands & Functions, Emerging Markets, and as VP of Corporate Strategy and Development. Friend is a member of Nike's Executive Leadership Team and the senior management representative to the Audit & Finance Committee of the Nike, Inc. Board of Directors.


Friend began his career in investment banking with Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs.






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easyJet welcomes FlyZero’s concept for a midsize aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen, enabling zero-carbon emission flights of the future


easyJet has welcomed FlyZero’s announcement that it has developed a concept for a midsize aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen, enabling zero-carbon emission flights. This is another vote of confidence for hydrogen technology.

The concept aircraft would be capable of flying 279 passengers halfway around the world without a stop (i.e. from London to San Francisco), or to anywhere in the world with just one stop to refuel (i.e. from London to Auckland).

The midsize aircraft would store hydrogen at minus 250 degrees Celsius (minus 418 degrees Fahrenheit) in cryogenic fuel tanks at the rear of the plane and in two smaller “cheek” tanks along the forward fuselage to keep the aircraft balanced.

easyJet sees hydrogen powered aircraft playing an important role in its decarbonisation pathway. The airline recently joined the UN-backed “Race to Zero”, committing to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and setting an interim science-based target for 2035.

David Morgan, Director of Flight Operations at easyJet, said:  “FlyZero’s concept aircraft demonstrates the huge potential of green liquid hydrogen for aviation, including larger gauge aircraft, and I’m very excited to see where we go from here. easyJet is closely involved in the work of the Aerospace Technology Institute and its FlyZero project and we look forward to continuous collaboration to make zero-carbon emission flights a reality as soon as possible.” 

The FlyZero project is led by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) and funded by the UK government. The project supports the aims of the Jet Zero Council, a partnership between industry and government with the aim of delivering zero emission transatlantic flight within a generation. 

easyJet is closely involved in these initiatives with representation in all three entities:

AerAdvise assist Emerald Airlines in getting EASA part-CAMO approval and AOC from the IAA.

AerAdvise provided support in the development of the Emerald Airlines Continuing Airworthiness Exposition (CAME), Approved Maintenance Programme (AMP) and Minimum Equipment List (MEL) as well as input towards the initial set up of Emerald Airlines CAMO. In addition, AerAdvise provided support to Emerald Airlines in the delivery of their first ATR72 aircraft.


Pat Toner, AerAdvise CEO & Founder, commented: "We are excited to evolve our working relationship with Emerald Airlines, in assisting this new Irish airline in achieving its CAMO certificate. Emerald is an important part of our aviation system in Ireland, so we have experienced first-hand Emerald's performance-driven and entrepreneurial culture, proven success in building and extending the Emerald brand and their strong airline product innovation. We believe this relationship will create compelling and sustainable value for our AerAdvise regulated technical services business and our shareholders."

Commenting on the announcement, Conor McCarthy, CEO and Founder of Emerald Airlines said: "We are very pleased with the outcome of our work with AerAdvise. The CAMO certificate was a key milestone to achieving our AOC and enables us to perform the continuing airworthiness management of our ATR FLEET."





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Flexjet to Join 2022 Naples Winter Wine Festival as Official Private Jet Raffle Sponsor and Festival Partner

Flexjet is celebrating the return to in-person Naples Winter Wine Festival this year on January 28-30, 2022 with a double donation comprised of 15 flight hours in a Challenger 300 for its fundraising raffle and another 8 flight hours in a Challenger 300 for an Auction Lot featuring a glamorous holiday in St Barths.


The ‘Rise Up Twenty Twenty Twogether’ Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF) is one of the world’s most prestigious and successful charity wine auctions and with the rise in popularity of private jet travel, this year is a fitting year for Flexjet to be a Festival partner. The wine selection at the Festival represents 13 wine-producing regions, six countries and three continents. Since 2001, it has raised nearly $220 million for the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), to assist at-risk children living in Collier County, FL. This is such a popular event, even when it went virtual in 2021, it raised $7.4 million for the foundation.

“For the past 20 years, the generosity and money raised by this organization on the behalf of the children has really been inspiring for myself and for all of us at Flexjet,” said Flexjet CEO Michael J. Silvestro. “We are enthusiastically doubling down on our donation to do everything we can to raise as much money as possible for the children.”

07 December, 2021

American Airlines Announces Leadership Succession Plan

American Airlines has announced Doug Parker will retire as chief executive officer of American Airlines on March 31, 2022. Robert Isom, currently president of American, will succeed him. Isom also will join the airline’s board of directors on that same date, and Parker will continue to serve as chairman of American’s board.

“I have worked with Robert for two decades and I am incredibly pleased that he will be the next CEO of American Airlines, which is truly the best job in our industry,” Parker said. “Robert is a collaborative leader with deep operational expertise and global industry experience. His efforts to guide and support our team throughout the pandemic have been nothing short of phenomenal. We are well-positioned to take full advantage of our industry’s recovery, and now is the right time for a handoff we have planned and prepared for. I feel extremely fortunate to hand the reins to this clear and capable leader.”





Parker added, “It has been the privilege of my life to serve for 20 years as an airline CEO. I am forever grateful to the American team, whose commitment to taking care of each other and our customers has never wavered and will continue to drive our success going forward.”

Isom, who was named president in 2016, brings more than 30 years of global industry and leadership experience across finance, operations, planning, marketing, sales, alliances, pricing and revenue management.


“I am humbled to serve as CEO of American Airlines,” said Isom. “Over the past several years, our airline and our industry have gone through a period of transformative change. And with change comes opportunity. Today, our more than 130,000 dedicated team members fly more people than any other U.S. airline on the youngest fleet of all the network carriers, and we are positioned to continue to lead the industry as travel rebounds.”

Isom added, “I want to thank Doug for his partnership over the past two decades. He is a leader and teacher who inspires all around him and leaves an incredible legacy at American and in our industry. Looking ahead, I am deeply honored to be working alongside the best team in the industry and know that we will achieve great things together.”

Lead Independent Director John Cahill said, “The board views succession planning as one of our most important mandates, and today’s announcement represents the culmination of a thoughtful and well-crafted succession planning process. Robert is an excellent team builder who has worked to bring people together throughout his career. He is the right leader to carry American forward into its next period of growth.”

Cahill concluded, “Over the span of his 35-year career, Doug has been an architect and advocate for a more vibrant, resilient and secure aviation industry. At American, Doug has overseen unprecedented investment in our team and our product and set the standard for servant leadership, tirelessly championing our people and establishing an accessible and inclusive culture. We look forward to continuing to benefit from Doug’s sound judgement, deep industry knowledge, persistence and optimism as chairman of our board.”





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CDB Aviation Delivers A320 Aircraft to U.S budget airline Allegiant



CDB Aviation, a wholly-owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Limited confirmed this week, the delivery of an Airbus A320-200 aircraft to a new customer in the Americas region, Las Vegas-based ultra-low-cost airline Allegiant.

“With its efficient air service model focused on providing reliable and affordably accessible air travel, Allegiant has been strengthening its unique position of growth as the industry emerges from the pandemic,” noted Luís da Silva, CDB Aviation’s Head of Commercial, Americas. “This transaction is a valuable component of the carrier’s fleet plan for 2022 and beyond, and we look forward to building a long-term, strategic relationship with the Allegiant team.”

The aircraft will enter service, configured with 186 economy seats, to support the carrier’s business model: point-to-point commercial air service that links small city airports to leisure destinations across the United States.

“We appreciate CDB Aviation’s creative approach, providing a transaction that fits nicely with our fleet strategy,” said Robert Neal, Allegiant’s Treasurer and Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance. “We’re pleased to be growing our fleet with high-quality aircraft well suited for our ULCC operation. We appreciate CDB Aviation’s confidence in Allegiant.”

Peter Goodman, CDB Aviation Chief Marketing Officer, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome a new customer in North America, which demonstrates our continued efforts to build up the platform’s position in key markets across the globe. As airlines adapt fleets to meet the recovery in air travel, CDB Aviation is well positioned to provide fast-growing airlines, such as Allegiant, with access to an established fleet of varied aircraft types and full-service support to monetize post-pandemic growth opportunities.”



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Seattle to be added to Finnair's U.S. network and carrier continues direct flights from Stockholm to Los Angeles and New York during the summer season

Helsinki based Finnair has confirmed it will be further expanding its route network to the United States with a new service between its home base and Seattle starting 1 June 2022. In the summer season 2022, Finnair will operate three weekly flights to Seattle on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 

Seattle is known for its spectacular natural beauty, coffee culture, music scene and quirky neighbourhoods. Visitors can hike in evergreen forests or visit picturesque vineyards. The Emerald City is also home to some big names in business. 

Finnair also continues to expand its presence in the US by continuing direct flights to New York John F. Kennedy Airport and Los Angeles International Airport from Stockholm, Sweden, through the summer season. From 1 May 2022, Finnair will increase frequencies for these connections. Finnair will fly from Stockholm to New York daily, and to Los Angeles four times a week. 

“We are delighted to offer more connections between the US and Northern Europe,” says Finnair’s Chief Commercial Officer Ole Orvér. “Seattle is a fantastic destination for leisure travellers who enjoy vibrant city life and beautiful nature. We also expect this new connection to be a pleasant surprise for many business travellers.” 

In the summer season 2022, Finnair will fly from Helsinki also to Dallas, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. 





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Ethiopian Airlines launches car hire and transfer service in partnership with CarTrawler



Ethiopian Airlines, the largest aviation group in Africa, is pleased to announce that it has  partnered with CarTrawler, the leading provider of online car rental distribution systems,  launching car hire and transfer services for its passengers globally. The partnership enables Ethiopian to offer seamless transport service to passengers throughout their journeys.  

Commenting on the launch of the car-hire and transfer services, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO  Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam said, “We are very glad to partner with CarTrawler which enables our  passengers to book car rental and transfer services at their destinations. As a customer centric airline, we  always look for opportunities to maximize passengers’ comfort through end-to-end services which augment  their travel experience. We have integrated the service digitally so that passengers can make their bookings  through our website and mobile app from anywhere.”  

The service enables passengers to rent vehicles from third-party vehicle rental suppliers and book  ground transportation services including taxis and ride-hailing services, airport transfer services  and chauffeur driven vehicle rental, among others. Passengers can book the service via Ethiopian  Airlines website ethiopianairlines.com and Mobile App. 

Globally, CarTrawler offers attractive rates for car hire in over 30,000 locations in more than 145  countries, and with over 1,200 international suppliers. 






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DB Schenker extends long-term agreement with Atlas Air

Atlas Air, part of the Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings group have confirmed an extension of its partnership with Schenker Flight Services GmbH (DB Schenker), one of the world’s largest integrated logistics service providers, to provide transpacific service. 

Atlas Air’s relationship with DB Schenker includes supporting its global network by providing charter capacity service. The new arrangement builds on an agreement Atlas Air reached with DB Schenker in 2020, and extends the dedicated capacity, which Atlas Air provides on multiple flights every week. 

“We are excited to strengthen our partnership with DB Schenker through this long-term, extended agreement to provide critical capabilities for our valued customer,” said John W. Dietrich, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Air Worldwide.  “We appreciate DB Schenker’s confidence in Atlas Air’s ability to deliver their cargo safely and efficiently as we support their network across the Pacific and around the world.” 

Björn Eckbauer, Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Procurement Airfreight for DB Schenker, said the flights Atlas Air provides have become an essential part of their global flight network.  “We are excited to extend our current partnership with Atlas Air on our transpacific charter operations.  The timely and reliable operation of Atlas Air fits perfectly into our commitment to provide our customers a reliable service for air transportation in their supply chain,” Mr Eckbauer said. 





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Only 170,000 people flew with Icelandair in November

The total number of Icelandair‘s passengers and capacity increased significantly in November 2021 compared to November 2020, but was far less than anticipated. The total capacity in November reached 63% of November 2019 capacity levels. Year-to-date, Icelandair passengers have reached 1.3 million in 2021.

The total number of passengers on international and domestic flights was around 170,000 compared to around 13,000 in November 2020 and 283,000 in November 2019. Thereof, the total number of passengers on international flights was around 151,000. The number of passengers to Iceland was around 80,000 and from Iceland around 33,000. Via passengers were around 38,000. On-time performance was 75%.

The load factor on international flights was 71% compared to 32% in November 2020 and 79% in November 2019. The load factor on flights to and from North America increased significantly when the US borders opened to vaccinated travelers from Europe in the second week of November.

The number of passengers on domestic flights was around 19,000 compared to around 6,000 in November 2020 and 21,000 in November 2019. The domestic operation is recovering well and year-to-date, the number of domestic passengers has increased by 78% compared to 2020.

Sold block hours in charter flights increased by 96% compared to November 2020. Freight measured in Freight Tonne Kilometres increased by 26% compared to November 2020 and has increased by 24% year-on-year during the first eleven months of 2021.

Allegiant and Viva Aerobus form new commercial alliance agreement

A fully-Integrated alliance will bring more nonstop flights, lower fares for leisure travel between the U.S. and Mexico

Allegiant Chairman and CEO Maurice J. Gallagher, Jr. and Viva Aerobus Chief Executive Officer Juan Carlos Zuazua, photographed at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. The airlines today announced plans for a fully-integrated Commercial Alliance Agreement, designed to dramatically expand options for nonstop leisure air travel between the United States and Mexico, while lowering fares to make travel more accessible and affordable for residents of both nations. (Photo: Henri Sagalow)


Allegiant and Viva Aerobus today announced plans for a fully-integrated Commercial Alliance Agreement, designed to dramatically expand options for nonstop leisure air travel between the United States and Mexico, while lowering fares to make travel more accessible and affordable for residents of both nations. The alliance is not only the first such venture for Las Vegas-based Allegiant and Viva Aerobus but is also first-of-its-kind in the airline industry between two ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs). 

Allegiant and Viva Aerobus have submitted a joint application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requesting approval of and antitrust immunity for the alliance.  Allegiant will also make an equity investment of $50 million in Viva Aerobus, and Allegiant Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Maurice J. Gallagher, Jr. is expected to join the Viva Aerobus Board of Directors. The transactions are also subject to clearance by the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Commission.

Combining the unique product offerings, networks and market experience of two of the world's fastest-growing ULCCs, the alliance will achieve important public benefits that neither Allegiant nor Viva Aerobus could provide independently.

EL AL Israel Airlines is the official airline of the Miss Universe 2021

Miss Universe departing Andrea Maza on a flight to Israel for the competition
Photo PRNewsfoto/EL AL Israel Airlines Ltd
EL AL Israel Airlines is the official airline of the Miss Universe 2021 competition taking place in Eilat, Israel for the first time
 
 
Hundreds of delegations and representatives including those from the United States and from dozens of countries around the world will arrive on EL AL's aircraft in preparation for the exciting event, on December 12


EL AL is the official airline of the Miss Universe 2021 competition that will take place for the first time in Eilat, Israel. Over the last few days, representatives from 80 countries and 5 continents have arrived in Israel ahead of the competition, including the current Miss Universe, Mis Andrea Maza, Mexico's representative.
The international competition will be broadcast live to more than 170 countries and to 600 million viewers all over the world. This year, the competition will highlight the significant issue of the global warming as part of a green agenda that is also part of the values of the "Miss Universe" organization.

During their stay in Israel, the delegates were guests at EL AL and took part of the Miss Universe campaign to encourage tourism to Israel and to strengthen the EL AL brand around the world.

The event and the participants are hosted in Israel by the Israel Ministry of Tourism.

Even though Israel is currently closed to tourists now, however, the delegation arrived under Covid 19 regulations and received special approvals to enter Israel.

EL AL also announced that the representative of the United Arab Emirates will also compete for the title of Miss Universe and will participate in the event in Israel alongside the representative from Morocco who will also compete, for the first time, in 40 years.

Amit Sagi, CMO and CDO of EL AL said: "We are proud to be the official airline of the competition, to fly hundreds of participants to this competition from dozens of countries around the world and give them their first experience of Israel, already on the way here. EL AL is not just an airline, its Israel".






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United Airlines appoints Nike, Inc. CFO Matthew Friend to Board of Directors


United Airlines Holdings announced this week that Matthew Friend will join its Board of Directors. Friend, currently Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Nike, Inc., brings more than two decades of corporate finance and strategy experience to the airline's Board.

"As we emerge from the pandemic as a leader in the industry and stand ready to accelerate our business, United will benefit greatly from Matt's deep financial acumen and stewardship of one of the leading consumer brands on the planet," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "Plus, his years of global corporate experience will help inform our effort to continue to be a force for good across the country and around the world."

"Any time we bring on a new board member, we're focused on adding experienced leaders with skill sets and unique perspectives that will benefit United," said Ted Philip, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "As the world reopens and travel demand continues to surge back, the United Board will benefit from Matt's extensive global finance, strategy and business planning skills to help guide the airline as it charts a successful future."

"United has shown real leadership over the past 18 months and has worked to redefine itself in the eyes of its employees, customers and the communities it serves," said Friend. "The airline is determined to capitalize on this momentum, and I'm thrilled to join the board at this exciting time in its history."

Friend was named EVP and CFO of Nike, Inc. in March 2020. Since then, he has helped steer Nike through a significant business transformation. Previously, Friend held the roles of CFO for Nike Operating Segments and VP of Investor Relations. He has also served as CFO of Nike Brand, Global Brands & Functions, Emerging Markets, and as VP of Corporate Strategy and Development. Friend is a member of Nike's Executive Leadership Team and the senior management representative to the Audit & Finance Committee of the Nike, Inc. Board of Directors.

Friend began his career in investment banking with Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs.





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American Airlines and Amadeus almost ready for global distribution system roll-out

 
American Airlines and Amadeus announced this week that they will complete full end-to-end workflow integration of New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology for points of sale in North America by early 2022. Earlier this year, American was the first U.S. airline to complete a NDC integration with a Global Distribution System (GDS) by partnering with Amadeus for European points of sale. More travel advisors and corporations will soon have access through the Amadeus Travel Platform to American’s flights, ancillaries, and current and future elevated offers such as Main Plus, Corporate Experience, and Main Select, available only through NDC or aa.com.

“We’re proud to be the first major U.S. airline to integrate with a GDS and look forward to completing full integration with Amadeus for the North American market early next year,” said Neil Geurin, Managing Director of Digital and Distribution for American Airlines. “This market launch will be a significant milestone for our industry and creates opportunities for more personalized offers and a more intuitive booking experience. We enjoy a longstanding partnership with Amadeus and will continue to work with their travel seller network to modernize the booking experience for years to come.”

Streamlined booking and servicing

Travel advisors and corporations using the Amadeus Travel Platform for points of sale in North America will soon enjoy a more seamless shopping, booking, ticketing and travel management experience. In addition, they will have access to the airline’s Main Plus offer, which includes complimentary access to Main Cabin Extra and preferred seats, preferred boarding and a free checked bag in addition to the Main Cabin baggage allowance. Main Plus is available only through aa.com and booking channels equipped with NDC.

The integration also provides more post-ticket servicing capabilities with the ability to make voluntary changes and book ancillaries such as seat assignments, including Main Cabin Extra.

“We’re pleased to be the first travel technology provider to fully integrate NDC with American Airlines, and look forward to bringing American’s elevated content offerings to our travel partners and directly to corporate travellers who book through Cytric,” said Javier Laforgue, Executive Vice President, Air Distribution for Amadeus. “Our teams have worked hard to bring the travel community an enhanced retailing experience, and we’ll continue to build on our partnership to innovate in distribution.”

06 December, 2021

John Flaherty becomes Vice President, Inflight Experience at JetBlue

The U.S. budget carrier, JetBlue announced that John Flaherty has been named the airline’s vice president, inflight experience. In his new role, Flaherty will lead and support JetBlue’s best-in-class inflight team with focus on ensuring new and current crewmembers have the tools and training to safely deliver and advance JetBlue’s award-winning hospitality and customer experience on board every flight.

Since joining JetBlue more than 15 years ago as a frontline airport crewmember, Flaherty has served the airline’s airport operations in a variety of roles with multiple promotions. He most recently served as director, airports for JetBlue’s Boston operation. In his role as director and prior, Flaherty helped grow JetBlue’s Boston presence from just a handful of gates more than a decade ago to one of the largest operating carriers at Boston Logan International Airport. He has lead JetBlue’s crewmembers through a number of industry challenges, including the pandemic.

“With a deep understanding of JetBlue’s culture and service, as well as his operational expertise, John was an obvious choice to lead our inflight team,” said Ed Baklor, JetBlue’s head of customer care and programs. “Since coming to JetBlue in 2006, John has been able to excel as a leader, growing our Boston operation to what it is today. He understands that our crewmembers are the reason we are who we are, a world-recognized customer-focused travel company. I am confident John will achieve great things in this new role, as he has in previous roles he has held at JetBlue.”

“As we congratulate John for this well-deserved promotion we also remember our much loved Norbert Strissel who was our previous director, airports in Boston and who we sadly lost suddenly back in January 2019,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer, JetBlue. “Norbert was John’s biggest fan and Norbert’s affection for our people and culture was instrumental to John’s growth as the incredible leader he is today.”

Flaherty will assist in the smooth transition from his previous role with focus on the busy holiday travel season. He is a graduate of Stonehill College.





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Air Canada's Latest Options Offer Customers Safe and Seamless Holiday Travel to the U.S.



Air Canada's Latest Options Offer Customers Safe and Seamless Holiday Travel to the U.S., Making it Easy to Comply with Updated Government Requirements

Switch Health Rapid Antigen Test Kits can be delivered in Canada and taken from the comfort of your home or accommodation, one day prior to departure, test results in 15 minutes
Revamped Air Canada Travel Ready Hub provides travellers with easy-to-understand COVID-19 travel requirements and answers to FAQ'
Full vaccination required for air travel with proof of vaccination integrated into Air Canada app check-in experience
Air Canada announces a series of improvements for customers to meet new U.S. government entry requirements. In partnership with Switch Health, a Canadian-based health care company, Air Canada confirms ample supply of antigen test kits available for purchase. The self-administered antigen test will allow customers to conveniently meet new U.S. government entry requirements that travellers present a negative COVID-19 test taken not more than one day prior to departure. The test result takes about 15 minutes to complete.

The self-administered test can be taken from the comfort of the customer's home or accommodation, within one day prior to departure. The test is conducted under the remote supervision of a telehealth professional from Switch Health and includes an electronic report suitable for travel. Customers can order the Switch Health Rapid Antigen Test Kit (which includes two tests) at switchhealth.ca/aeroplan or redeem at aircanada.com/estore.

"With government restrictions evolving around the world, we want to simplify the experience and provide customers with easy and effective testing solutions," said Mark Nasr, Senior Vice President, Products Marketing & eCommerce at Air Canada. "We're also sending new, customized e-mails within five days of departure, detailing the travel, entry and testing requirements specific to any itinerary, for travel everywhere throughout the globe."

For a seamless check-in experience, the Air Canada app and aircanada.com have been upgraded to recognize the Switch Health QR code and proof of vaccination status, enabling customers to securely submit their test results and proof of vaccination in advance of travel. This meets the Government of Canada requirement that all air travellers be fully vaccinated and offers customers another contactless experience.

Supported by a continually improving Travel Ready Hub, customers can easily and conveniently obtain such information as necessary travel documentation, COVID-19 test requirements and country travel restrictions for any global destination.





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WestJet Christmas Miracle

Canadians surprised with meaningful and emotional reunions through WestJet Christmas Miracle

WestJet today released the airline's 10th-holiday video, WestJet Christmas Miracle: A Wish Come True. This year's theme focuses on the emotional and sentimental moments that guests missed celebrating last year due to the pandemic.

"The pandemic impacted everyone's ability to connect with families and friends for far too long and we've truly missed celebrating those moments with our guests," said Richard Bartrem, WestJet Vice-President, Brand, Communications and Community Investment. "Hearing Canadians' wishes, we knew we could do something meaningful given how important travel is to Canadians from coast-to-coast."

Over the course of two weeks, undercover and operating as a documentary film crew, WestJet interviewed Canadians in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver asking them how the pandemic impacted their Christmas traditions and what they wished for the most this holiday season.  

The spot features surprises ranging from round-trip tickets and all-inclusive vacation packages to a global reunion between mother and daughter.

"Unsuspecting Canadians authentically divulged so many relatable missed moments from flights home for the holidays, to family reunions and planned vacations that were postponed," continued Bartrem. "We truly hope this year's Christmas Miracle brings joy and the personal connection we've all been wishing for the most. As the skies open once again, we look forward to doing what we've been doing so well for 25 years – connecting our guests with their loved ones."

Additional Christmas Miracle content including a WestJet's Christmas Miracle surprise for the airline's WestJet Cares for Kids partner, Make A Wish, will be available in the coming days.





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Over a million passengers travelled with Norwegian in November



The budget airline Norwegian has reported its latest results which showed the airline carried over a million people during November. The airline says this is because of increased passenger demand following the relaxation of border restrictions in Europe.  

“The result shows that we have done well in adapting capacity to customers' travel needs. Spain is one of the markets where we have seen a good development in bookings. In the last month, we have made it even easier for customers to book with confidence by extending the possibility of one fee-free change even on the most restricted tickets,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.

In November, the carrier says 1,005,380 passengers flew with the firm, compared with 124,481 in November last year. Compared to November 2020, the total capacity (ASK) has increased by 541 percent and passenger traffic (RPK) is up 1007 percent.

In addition, the load factor in November was 76.6 per cent.

In November, Norwegian had an average of 49 aircraft in operation, while 99.8 per cent of scheduled flights were operated. Punctuality was 91.3 percent.





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IAG Cargo launches its biggest-ever recruitment drive


IAG Cargo launches its biggest-ever recruitment drive

 

·       IAG Cargo announces it will grow its workforce with more than 500 new roles, in its biggest recruitment drive to date

·       This landmark recruitment campaign will support IAG Cargo to expand its cargo operation and meet growing customer demand

·       As part of the campaign IAG Cargo will be recruiting in areas across the business including operations, revenue and inventory management, data & analytics and projects

 


IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), announces it will be creating more than 500 new roles over the next 12 months in the biggest recruitment drive in the organisation’s history, in areas ranging from operations to transformation.

 

This landmark recruitment campaign will support IAG Cargo to expand its cargo operation and meet growing customer demand. The business has welcomed many new customers since the start of 2021. It has seen a growing demand for some of its specialist products such as Constant Climate, which supports the movement of temperature sensitive cargo such as vaccines, its dedicated perishable product Constant Fresh and its Critical product which continues to be popular for customers needing to transport emergency items.

 

IAG Cargo’s Q3 revenues increased by 34% compared to the same period in 2020 showing sustained growth as the business increases capacity across its network. As part of the campaign, IAG Cargo will be recruiting in areas across the business including operations, revenue and inventory management, data & analytics and projects.

 

Commenting on the recruitment drive, David Shepherd, Managing Director at IAG Cargo said: “IAG Cargo is a growing business offering rewarding careers in a fast-paced environment, where no day is the same. We give individuals the opportunity to put ideas forward, have varied career paths, work autonomously and explore their potential with the support of their team. We put a big emphasis on internal promotion and being part of the IAG group means that our employees can not only move ‘up’ but across into other parts of the group. This recruitment drive will see us recruit broadly, advertising a variety of new roles.”

 

The business is looking to recruit employees on a rolling basis and interested parties are invited to visit: https://www.iagcargo.com/en/careers/.




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05 December, 2021

Airbus completes second ocean satellite Sentinel-6B

Photo Airbus / T. Locher

Airbus has completed Sentinel-6B, the second ocean monitoring satellite of the European Copernicus programme, and is now testing it extensively over the next six months in preparation for its use in space.

"Copernicus Sentinel-6" mission is already delivering high-precision measurement of the topography of ocean surfaces through the first of two satellites, “Sentinel-6A”, launched in November 2020. The mission’s two satellites are built to measure the distance to the sea surface to an accuracy of a few centimetres and map it in a 10-day rhythm over a mission duration of up to seven years. Their purpose is to record changes in the height of the sea surfaces, variations in sea levels and analyse and observe ocean currents. Accurate observation of sea surface height changes provides information about global sea levels, the speed and direction of ocean currents and the heat stored in the oceans. The measurements – obtained from 1336 km above the Earth – are crucial for ocean modelling and predicting sea level rise.

This information helps governments and institutions to establish effective protection for coastal regions. The data is also valuable for disaster management organisations, and for authorities carrying out urban planning, flood protection schemes, or dyke construction.

As a result of global warming, global sea levels are currently rising by an average of 3.3 millimetres per year - with potentially dramatic consequences for countries with densely populated coasts.

Part of Europe’s Copernicus, Sentinel-6 is also an international collaboration between ESA, NASA, NOAA and Eumetsat.






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Paul Rinaldi becomes latest member of Joby Aviation's advisory board




Joby Aviation, a California-based company developing all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial passenger service, today announced the appointment of Paul Rinaldi, former President of the National Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), to its Advisory Board.

Rinaldi was president of NATCA from 2009-2021, the longest-serving elected leader in the organization’s history. During his tenure, Rinaldi worked extensively with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to improve airspace safety. Prior to assuming leadership positions at NATCA, Rinaldi worked for 15 years as an air traffic controller at Washington-Dulles Tower (IAD).

Rinaldi’s work to improve airspace safety and deep relationships with airspace management stakeholders — including as Vice President of the Global Air Traffic Controllers Alliance — will prove invaluable to Joby’s success as a commercial operator.

Rinaldi joins Joby as the Company focuses on receiving FAA certification for its aircraft, launching scaled manufacturing, and laying the groundwork for planned initial passenger operations in 2024. As a member of the Advisory Board, Rinaldi will support and advise Joby on the steps necessary to safely integrate flights into the National Airspace System.

“Paul knows what it takes to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the airspace and air traffic management system,” said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby. “His expertise will be so valuable as we work toward making fast and clean everyday flight a reality with our aircraft.”

Commenting on his appointment, Rinaldi added: “I have had the privilege of working closely with air traffic controllers’ unions, the FAA, and many other stakeholders to maintain the safety of our airspace, and I look forward to continuing that mission with Joby to shape and integrate an entirely new form of air transportation. JoeBen and his team have designed a revolutionary aircraft, and I believe they will completely change the way we think about flight in the decades to come.”

During his tenure as president of NATCA, Rinaldi held positions on the FAA’s Management Advisory Council (MAC) and NextGen Advisory Committee (NAC).



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