News

February 15th, 2012.

Last February 13th, US Airways announced that it will launch new nonstop service from Cincinnati, Ohio and Des Moines, Iowa to Washington, D.C.'s Reagan National Airport on May 2. Business, government and leisure travelers in these communities will have nonstop access to the nation's capital's downtown airport and connections to other destinations throughout the East Coast with the new flights.

Last February 13th news follows US Airways' announcement in January that it will launch nonstop flights to 11 new destinations from Reagan National Airport on March 25. This spring the airline will announce more new flights to Reagan National Airport starting July 11.

"Our new service from Cincinnati and Des Moines will provide a direct link to Washington, D.C. and connections to communities throughout the East Coast," said Andrew Nocella, US Airways' senior vice president, marketing and planning. "As we continue to expand at Reagan National, we remain focused on connecting customers in communities of all sizes with our nation's capital and providing them with convenient flight options and more travel choices."

Customers may book their flight through US Airways' website at www.usairways.com, by calling US Airways Reservations at 1-800-428-4322 or through their travel agent. Complete vacation packages to Washington, D.C.are also available at www.usairwaysvacations.com.

New Service from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)

US Airways' wholly owned subsidiary PSA Airlines will operate daily service to Cincinnati on 50-passenger Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ 200) aircraft. Flight 2487 starts May 2. All other flights begin May 3. The flight schedule is as follows:

To Reagan National (DCA) Flight Departure Arrival 2490 6:00 a.m. 7:44 a.m. 2492 12:40 p.m. 2:24 p.m. 2496* 5:50 p.m. 7:54 p.m.

From Reagan National (DCA) Flight Departure Arrival 2491 10:10 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 2495* 3:30 p.m. 5:20 p.m. 2487 9:05 p.m. 10:55 p.m.

*Flight operates daily with the exception of Saturday. Schedules are subject to change.

New Service from Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

Republic Airlines, a US Airways Express carrier, will operate daily service, with the exception of Saturdays, to Des Moines on dual-class 69-passenger Embraer 170 aircraft. Flight 3483 starts May 2. All other flights begin May 3. The flight schedule is as follows:

To Reagan National (DCA) Flight Departure Arrival 3480* 6:00 a.m. 9:12 a.m. 3482 4:10 p.m. 7:22 p.m.

From Reagan National (DCA) Flight Departure Arrival 3481 1:50 p.m. 3:28 p.m. 3483 8:10 p.m. 9:48 p.m.

*Flight operates daily with the exception of Sunday. Flight schedules are subject to change.

US Airways is a member of the Star Alliance.

Text property of: US Airways, http://www.usairways.com/en-US/aboutus/pressroom/pressreleases.html

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Etihad turns profitable

February 11th, 2012.

Last February 9th, Etihad Airways , the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, today reported a full year EBIT of US$137 million, on revenues up 36.0 per cent to US$4.1 billion (2010: US$2.98 billion). 

The results included earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and rentals (EBITDAR) of US$648 million, with a net profit of US$14 million. The record result exceeded the airline’s 2011 target, which was to break even.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “This is an historic day for Etihad Airways and an amazing achievement for an airline just eight years old. 

“Five years ago we said we would be profitable by 2011.  Despite the global financial crisis, continued high oil prices, regional instability and natural disasters, we have delivered.

“The mandate from our shareholder was to create an airline that is best in class, operates to the highest safety standards, and makes money – and we have achieved this mandate. 

“Everything we said we would do, we have done.  Now, we move into the next phase of our development whereby we deliver consistent, sustainable profitability.

“Given the challenges faced by the industry, our combination of revenue growth and entry into profitability must be one of the best results of any airline in 2011.

“And we will aim for strong growth again in 2012, in spite of the tough global economic environment,  with a passenger traffic target of 10 million and a corresponding increase in profits,” Mr Hogan said.

Highlights of the 2011 result included:• 8.3 million passengers, up 17 per cent on 2010 (7.1 million);
• an average seat factor of 75.8 per cent, nearly two percentage points higher than 2010 (74.0 per cent);  
• growth of available seat kilometres from 45.2 billion (2010) to 51.0 billion, up 13.0 per cent;
• the addition of five new routes – Bangalore, the Maldives, the Seychelles, Chengdu and Düsseldorf;
• Etihad Crystal Cargo revenues up 25.7 per cent to US$651 million (US$518 million) on tonnage up 17.8 per cent to 310,188 tonnes (263,313 tonnes);  
• an increase in total aircraft departures, from 57,534 to 62,735, with a technical dispatch reliability of 99 per cent; and 
• eight new codeshare agreements, taking Etihad Airways’ codeshare partners to 35 airlines, which increased its worldwide network to 259 destinations – more than any other Middle East air carrier. 

Mr Hogan said Etihad Airways’ successful partnership strategy intensified, with its first equity investment in another carrier – airberlin, Europe’s sixth largest airline, which was announced in December 2011. 

“This was a game changing move for Etihad Airways, adding 157 destinations and giving us access to 35 million new passengers.

“The airberlin deal will be our most important catalyst for growth in 2012. It has given us instant access to Europe’s largest travel market, and will have a major impact on revenues in 2012, with an expected contribution of up to US$50 million.

“And of course, 2011 marked the first full year of Etihad Airways’ strategic partnership with Virgin Australia, which offers 45 destinations in Australia and the Pacific, and boosted revenue by 700 per cent over what we achieved with our previous Australian airline partner. 

“We will continue to look at opportunities in 2012. Already this year we have announced a second equity investment, in Air Seychelles, which is an important step towards growing our operations in the increasingly popular leisure markets of the Indian Ocean and Africa.”

Mr Hogan said cost control had been a significant contributor to the airline’s profit, with costs per available seat kilometre (CASK), excluding fuel, being cut by 4.6 per cent in 2011 and 16.6 per cent over the last two years, representing annual savings of more than US$187 million.

“While we deliver an exceptional full service product, our management culture is that of a low cost airline. We have a forensic focus on cost control in every area of the business, aggressively targeting operational efficiencies.”  

The airline also continued its policy of fuel hedging, which has protected the airline from the volatility of oil prices.  More than 80 per cent of fuel costs were hedged in 2011, while the figure for 2012 is currently 75 per cent.

At the end of 2011, the company had 9,038 employees, up 15.1 per cent on 2010 (7,855), with more than 120 nationalities represented.  Etihad Airways’ successful Emiratisation scheme continued, with Emiratis now making up 18 per cent of the headquarters workforce.

Mr Hogan thanked the staff for their extraordinary efforts.  “This has been an incredible journey to profitability, achieved just eight years after Etihad Airways was launched, supported by the efforts of an outstanding team of 9,000 employees.

“Together, we have created the world’s leading airline, widely acclaimed for its best-in-class service.  We have developed an extensive network across five continents, connecting the world through our hub in Abu Dhabi with the world’s most modern fleet of aircraft.

“We remain a business that is investing heavily in new routes, in new aircraft and in new infrastructure,” said Mr Hogan.  “In 2012, we will add seven aircraft and have already announced plans to extend our network in Asia and Africa.”

“In January, we commenced operations to Tripoli, and Shanghai and Nairobi will follow – all in the first quarter. In July, we will add an additional African destination – Lagos – and will continue to announce new destinations in the coming months.” 

Etihad Airways ordered 100 new aircraft and 105 options and purchase rights at the 2008 Farnborough Air Show.  This gives flexibility in its network growth, enabling it to meet passenger demand over the next 10 years.  To date, Etihad Airways has raised US$5 billion in external fleet financing, through a portfolio of 41 different financial institutions.

Etihad Airways’ accounts are audited by KPMG.

Key Indicators	2011	2010	Variance
	US$	US$	%
Passenger revenue	2.96b	2.39b	+23.9
Cargo revenue	651m	518m	+25.7
Total revenue	4.1b	2.98b	+36
Passengers	8.3m	7.1m	+17
Revenue Passenger kilometres	38.7b	33.4b	+15.8
Available seat kilometres	51.0b	45.2b	+13
Seat factor	75.80%	74%	+1.8
Number of aircraft	64	57	+7 Aircraft
Number of employees	9,038	7,855	+15.1

News, information and chart property of: Etihad Airways, http://www.etihadairways.com/sites/Etihad/global/en/aboutetihad/mediacenter/newslisting/newsdetails/Pages/etihad-report-profit-and-ebit-of-137-million-us-dollars-in-record-2011-feb12.aspx?fromNewsListing=true

Etihad is based in Abu Dhabi.

Air canada announced non-stop flights to New York-JFK

February 6th, 2012.

This month, Air Canada announced it is offering customers even more convenient options for travelling to New York City with the launch of triple-daily, non-stop flights between Toronto Pearson and New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport beginning May 3, 2012.

In addition, beginning May 1, 2012 Air Canada will be increasing to hourly the service to LaGuardia from Toronto Pearson each business day.

By adding JFK to Air Canada's existing destinations in the New York City metropolitan area, they become the only Canadian carrier that operates to all three major New York City area airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport.

And with the addition of hourly service to LaGuardia, Air Canada will be providing the most frequencies, the widest choice of airports and the greatest convenience of all airlines flying between New York and Canada.

Text property of: Air Canada.

Edited By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Air Canada is 75 years old.

American reveals new plan

February 6th, 2012.

Last February 1st, American Airlines announced a business plan to transform the airline and restore it to industry leadership, profitability and growth. The plan targets an annual financial improvement of more than $3 billion by 2017, including $2 billion in cost savings and $1 billion in revenue enhancements. The additional cash flow will enable American to renew its fleet and to invest several hundred million dollars per year in ongoing improvements in products and services to deliver a world-class travel experience for customers. The improved cash flow will also allow American to further reduce its debt and become financially stronger in the years after its emergence from the restructuring process.

Tom Horton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "American Airlines is moving forward decisively. The plan we are outlining today provides the framework for a new American Airlines, positioned to succeed in an intensely competitive industry that has been transformed by our competitors' recent restructurings. Just as other airlines have done and will continue to do, we must invest restructuring-related cost savings in ongoing innovation and customer service improvements that drive revenue. The airlines that have failed to adapt to these changes are no longer in business. Change will be difficult, particularly as we will be ending this process with fewer people, but it is a necessity. American is ready to compete and win."

Horton further noted that in connection with the implementation of American's business plan, the company intends to engage in appropriate negotiations with its economic stakeholders and union representatives and seek necessary Bankruptcy Court approvals.

Restructuring – Non-Employee Cost ReductionsAmerican's plans build on initiatives already in place that reduced costs significantly over the past several years, including major changes to its route structure, network, capacity and fleet. Utilizing the benefits of the restructuring process, American intends to realize additional savings over the next six years by restructuring debt and leases, grounding older planes, improving supplier contracts, and undertaking other initiatives.

A central element of American's transformation is the overhaul of its fleet, which will reduce fuel, maintenance, and financing costs, and provide improved profitability and growth over time, by enabling American to better match the right equipment to the right routes.

Necessary Reduction of Employee CostsA fundamental element of American's plan, which is designed to allow it to exit restructuring and vigorously compete and win, includes employee cost reductions across all work groups. American informed employees earlier today that all groups, including management, must reduce their total costs by 20 percent. While the savings from each work group will be achieved somewhat differently, the plan provides that each will experience the same percentage reduction. These reductions would result in average annual employee-related savings of $1.25 billion from 2012 through 2017.

As described in its internal announcements today, American's business plan and proposals encompass a total reduction of approximately 13,000 employees. Included in the total employee impact is the expected result of a previously launched redesign of American's management and support staff structure that will reduce 15 percent of management positions. Consistent with the approach taken by other major airlines in their restructurings, American's plan also includes:

·                     Outsourcing a portion of American's aircraft maintenance work, including seeking closure of the Fort Worth Alliance Airport (AFW) maintenance base, and certain airport fleet service clerk work;

·                     Removing major structural barriers to operational flexibility, such as restrictions on codesharing and regional flying

·                     Introducing work rule changes to increase productivity.

American also said it will seek Bankruptcy Court approval to terminate its defined benefit pension plans. If the plans are terminated, American will contribute matching payments in a 401(k) plan. American also will seek to discontinue subsidizing future retiree medical coverage for current employees, but will offer access to these plans if employees choose to pay for them. American also proposes to implement common medical plans and contribution structures across all active employee groups.

"These are painful decisions," Horton continued, "but they are essential to American's future. We will emerge from our restructuring process as a leaner organization with fewer people, but we will also preserve tens of thousands of jobs that would have been lost if we had not embarked on this path – and that's a goal worth fighting for. By reinvesting savings back into our business, we will support job growth, including growth at our suppliers and partners over the long run. Only a successful, profitable and growing American Airlines can provide stability and opportunity for our people."

Text, courtesy and property of: American Airlines, http://aa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3449

American Airlines has a hub at Miami International Airport.

US Airways with record Load Factor

February 5th, 2012.

Last February 3rd, Us Airways announced January 2012 traffic results. Mainline revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for the month were 4.6 billion, up 3.8 percent versus January 2011. Mainline capacity was 5.9 billion available seat miles (ASMs), up 3.1 percent versus January 2011. Mainline passenger load factor was a record 78.8 percent for the month of January, up 0.5 points versus January 2011.

US Airways' President Scott Kirby said, "Our January consolidated (mainline and Express) passenger revenue per available seat mile (PRASM) increased approximately 10 percent versus the same period last year. I would like to thank our team of 32,000 employees for continuing to run an outstanding operation. Despite a record load factor and runway construction at our hub in Phoenix for most of the month, our team delivered its best January operational performance in the history of our Company."

For the month of January, US Airways' preliminary on-time performance as reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation was 85.0 percent with a completion factor of 99.2 percent.

The following summarizes US Airways Group's traffic results for the month ended January 31, 2012 and 2011, consisting of mainline-operated flights as well as US Airways Express flights operated by wholly owned subsidiaries PSA Airlines and Piedmont Airlines.

US Airways Mainline
JANUARY
		2012	2011	Change
Mainline Revenue Passenger Miles (000)
	Domestic	3,598,743	3,392,336	6.1	%
	Atlantic	591,475	593,211	(0.3)	%
	Latin	442,698	476,630	(7.1)	%
	Total Mainline Revenue Passenger Miles	4,632,916	4,462,177	3.8	%
Mainline Available Seat Miles (000)
	Domestic	4,393,572	4,234,529	3.8	%
	Atlantic	915,734	863,167	6.1	%
	Latin	569,708	602,330	(5.4)	%
	Total Mainline Available Seat Miles	5,879,014	5,700,026	3.1	%
Mainline Load Factor (%)
	Domestic	81.9	80.1	1.8	pts
	Atlantic	64.6	68.7	(4.1)	pts
	Latin	77.7	79.1	(1.4)	pts
	Total Mainline Load Factor	78.8	78.3	0.5	pts
Mainline Enplanements
	Domestic	3,837,313	3,541,413	8.4	%
	Atlantic	141,299	145,869	(3.1)	%
	Latin	313,801	342,081	(8.3)	%
	Total Mainline Enplanements	4,292,413	4,029,363	6.5	%
Notes:
1)	Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands are included in the domestic results.
2)	Latin numbers include the Caribbean.

US Airways Express (Piedmont Airlines, PSA Airlines)
JANUARY
		2012	2011	Change
Express Revenue Passenger Miles (000)
	Domestic	166,657	165,729	0.6	%
Express Available Seat Miles (000)
	Domestic	255,210	253,010	0.9	%
Express Load Factor (%)
	Domestic	65.3	65.5	(0.2)	pts
Express Enplanements
	Domestic	589,967	570,315	3.4	%
Notes:
1)	Canada is included in domestic results.

Consolidated US Airways Group, Inc.
JANUARY
		2012	2011	Change
Consolidated Revenue Passenger Miles (000)
	Domestic	3,765,400	3,558,065	5.8	%
	Atlantic	591,475	593,211	(0.3)	%
	Latin	442,698	476,630	(7.1)	%
	Total Consolidated Revenue Passenger Miles	4,799,573	4,627,906	3.7	%
Consolidated Available Seat Miles (000)
	Domestic	4,648,782	4,487,539	3.6	%
	Atlantic	915,734	863,167	6.1	%
	Latin	569,708	602,330	(5.4)	%
	Total Consolidated Available Seat Miles	6,134,224	5,953,036	3.0	%
Consolidated Load Factor (%)
	Domestic	81.0	79.3	1.7	pts
	Atlantic	64.6	68.7	(4.1)	pts
	Latin	77.7	79.1	(1.4)	pts
	Total Consolidated Load Factor	78.2	77.7	0.5	pts
Consolidated Enplanements
	Domestic	4,427,280	4,111,728	7.7	%
	Atlantic	141,299	145,869	(3.1)	%
	Latin	313,801	342,081	(8.3)	%
	Total Consolidated Enplanements	4,882,380	4,599,678	6.1	%
Notes:
1)	Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands are included in the domestic results.
2)	Latin numbers include the Caribbean.

Text property and courtesy of: Us Airways,  http://www.usairways.com/en-US/aboutus/pressroom/pressreleases.html 

US Airways is the largest operator from Charlotte's International Airport.

United announces new domestic routes

February 3rd, 2012.

Last January 31st, United Airlines announced plans to launch year-round and seasonal service on several new routes to begin in the summer of 2012.

"We continue to capitalize on the combined resources of United and Continental to create a network that gives our customers more flights to the places they want to go," said James Starnes, United's director of domestic planning. "The flexibility of our fleet allows us to put the right aircraft in the right markets to serve new communities and to add additional flights to communities we already serve."

Daily Service between Washington/Dulles and Honolulu

United will begin daily year-round service between Washington/Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Honolulu (HNL) on June 7, 2012, the only nonstop service between the two points. The flights will operate using Boeing 767-400 aircraft.

United, the largest carrier between the mainland U.S. and Hawaii, connects the Aloha State with eight mainland cities, as well as Tokyo, Guam andMajuro, offering nonstop service in 23 city pairs.

From its Dulles hub, United also offers more domestic and international service from the nation's capital than any other airline.

New Summer Seasonal Flights from Denver, Houston and San Francisco

The airline will also add seasonal service to several popular summer travel destinations.

·                     Alaska: New daily service between Denver (DEN) and Fairbanks, Alaska (FAI), will operate from June 7, 2012 through Aug. 27, 2012, using Boeing737-800 aircraft. Fairbanks offers access to Denali National Park, one of Alaska's most visited destinations. The flights complement United's existing Alaska service to Anchorage from hubs in Denver, Chicago, Houston and San Francisco, as well as Seattle.

·                     South Dakota: United Express will offer daily seasonal service between Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Rapid City, S.D. (RAP), gateway to the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore and the Badlands National Park, from June 7, 2012, to Aug. 27, 2012. ExpressJet will operate the flights using Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft. United currently serves Rapid City from its Denver and Chicago hubs.

·                     Wyoming: The airline will also add summer-season flights between its Houston and San Francisco (SFO) hubs and Jackson Hole, Wyo. (JAC), which attracts millions of summer visitors to nearby Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons. The Houston flights will operate twice-weekly from June 8, 2012, through Aug. 27, 2012, using Boeing 757 aircraft. The San Francisco flights will operate daily from July 1, 2012, throughAug. 27, 2012, as United Express, with Bombardier CR7 aircraft flown by SkyWest Airlines. These flights are in addition to United's existing service to Jackson Hole from hubs in Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles.  

With these new route additions, United will remain within the previously announced capacity guidance.

Since the October 2010 merger of United and Continental, the larger combined fleet has given the company flexibility to better meet market demand.United has added new routes from its hubs to international destinations such as Lagos, Nigeria; Guadalajara, Mexico; Montreal, Canada; Port-au-Prince, Haiti; Shanghai, China, and Stuttgart, Germany, along with new intra-Asia routes between the Tokyo hub and Hong Kong and between the Guam hub and Okinawa, Japan.

The merger also enabled the company to add a number of new domestic routes by using a mix of mainline and regional aircraft from both carriers more efficiently.

In addition, previously announced new service between New York/Newark and Buenos Aires, and between Washington/Dulles and Manchester, U.K. andWashington/Dulles and Dublin, Ireland, will begin this spring.

Text, source and property of: United Airlines, http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=85779&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1654732&highlight=

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

United will operate their 737-800s to Fairbanks, Alaska.

Emirates increases services to Spain

February 1st, 2012.

Last 25th of January, Emirates announced it will launch Barcelona as its second passenger gateway into Spain from 3rd July, after doubling frequencies to Madrid from 1st July. 

The airline is embarking on a major boost to its services in Spain on the heels of mounting demand for its Madrid service, launched in August 2010.

Emirates will serve Barcelona from 3rd July with a 360-seat Boeing 777-300ER in a three-class arrangement.

The new Barcelona flight, EK 185, will leave Dubai daily at 0655hrs and arrive in Barcelona at 1200hrs. The return service, EK 186, leaves Barcelona at 1640hrs and lands in Dubai at 0100hrs the following day. 

Emirates’ 30th European destination will be served with a 360-seat Boeing 777-300ER, in a three-class arrangement. This includes eight First Class Private Suites and the award winning ice entertainment system throughout all cabin classes.

Barcelona, in the north east corner of Spain, is a popular tourist destination, boasting a wealth of gothic architecture, art galleries, sandy beaches and the Montserrat mountain range.

As capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona is an important commercial city. It is an established centre for hi-tech and biomedical business and has one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. Thousands of cruise passengers are amongst the city’s 7 million visitors per year.

On 1st July, in a further sign of commitment to Spain, Emirates will launch a second daily service to Madrid. EK 143 will also be operated with a three-class Boeing 777-300ER, departing Dubai daily 1425hrs and arriving in Madrid at 2020hrs. The return flight, EK 144, leaves Madrid at 2210hrs and arrives in Dubai at 0715hrs the next day.
  
“Emirates is making a very significant investment in Spain. To announce a new destination and a doubling of services to an existing gateway at the same time demonstrates our belief in the market and our commitment to the country, said Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline. “Madrid has been a strong performer and the demand is there for a second frequency, while we need a second point serving the dynamic Catalonia region.”

Catalonia receives approximately 25% of annual foreign investment in Spain and more than half of the Japanese, French, German, American, Italian and Dutch companies in Spain are located in the region, according to Barcelona City Council.

The city is home to a population of around 1.6 million people – a figure rising to more than 7 million across the Catalonia region.

“The new link between Dubai and Barcelona service will provide an efficient route to a wide range of Emirates’ destinations across Asia including Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea and Singapore, all via our superb Terminal 3 in Dubai,” Mr Clark added.

The European Cities Monitor 2011 named Barcelona as the top European city for employees’ quality of living and the 6th most attractive city in Europe to do business.

While Emirates has been serving Spain with passenger flights since 2010, Emirates SkyCargo has been operating freighter services to Spain since 2006, largely in support of the country’s fashion industry. Clothes are also amongst Catalonia’s main exports to the Gulf, along with machinery, cosmetics, audio and video equipment, chemical products and fresh foodstuffs. Overall trade between Spain and the UAE reached AED 4.15 billion (US $1.13 billion) in 2010, according to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade.

Barcelona snapshot

• Top European city in quality of living for employees (European Cities Monitor, 2011)
• 6th most attractive city in Europe for business (European Cities Monitor, 2011)
• 2nd city globally for the organisation of international meetings (International Congress & Convention Assoc. 2010)
• Barcelona city: 1,619,337 inhabitants (January 2010)
• Metropolitan area: 5,012,961 inhabitants (January 2010)
• Foreign population: 15.9% of total population (January 2010)
• Catalonia's GDP per capita (ppp) in % of EU-27 average: 120.9 (2010)
• Workforce employed in services: 86.8% (2010)
• University students in Catalonia: 233,583 (2009-2010)
• 2 Business schools amongst the top 10 in Europe (2011)
• Tourist overnights: 14.04 million (2010)
• 1st Mediterranean port in cruise passengers: 2,347,976 (2010)
• Delegates attending fairs and congresses: 616,833 (2010) 

Images and text courtesy and property of: Emirates, http://www.emirates.com/english/about/news/news_detail.aspx?article=776554&offset=0

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

United completes Economy Plus Rollout on 757s

January 31st, 2012.

Yesterday, United Airlines announced it is now offering Economy Plus seating on all long-haul international Boeing 757-200 flights, offering economy customers the option of six inches of extra legroom. 

With the reconfiguration, the aircraft have 16 flat-bed seats in BusinessFirst, 45 seats in Economy Plus and 108 in Economy. The 757-200 reconfiguration project, which began in late November, outfits those aircraft with 1,845 Economy Plus seats.

The 41 aircraft principally operate between New York/Newark and Amsterdam, Barcelona, Belfast, Berlin, Birmingham, Copenhagen, Dublin, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, Glasgow, Hamburg, Lima, Lisbon, London, Madrid, Manchester, Oslo, Paris, Shannon, Stockholm and Stuttgart, and between Washington/Dulles and Amsterdam and Paris.

“For many years, the Boeing 757 has enabled year-round service in long-haul international markets where customer demand doesn’t support the use of larger aircraft, and has allowed us to offer multiple daily flights between larger markets,” said Jim Compton, United’s executive vice president and chief revenue officer. “Customers have long enjoyed the convenience. With Economy Plus, they now have a new choice in economy-cabin comfort as well.”

Customers with premier status in United’s MileagePlus and OnePass frequent-flyer programs may confirm complimentary seat assignments in Economy Plus, when available. Customers may purchase Economy Plus seating, when available, online at united.com and continental.com, with a reservations agent, or at the airport.

United introduced Economy Plus in 1999. Today, the company offers the extra-legroom seating on more than 400 mainline aircraft and more than 150 regional jets. When fully deployed, United will offer customers more extra-legroom economy class seats than any airline in the world.

Other Product Investments

In addition to the expansion of Economy Plus seating, United continues to invest in onboard improvements:

·                     United has recently modified 28 three-cabin Boeing 777-200 aircraft with new premium cabins, offering flat-bed seats and audio and video on demand, as well as larger video screens and power ports in United Economy. United plans to modify 18 more Boeing 777 aircraft in the next year. United’s 23 Boeing 747-400, 21 three-cabin B767-300, 22 two-cabin B777-200 and 41 international B757-200 aircraft are already equipped with new premium cabins.

·                     One Boeing 767-400 aircraft now features new premium-cabin flat-bed seats, Economy Plus seating and audio and video on demand. The airline will similarly modify 11 additional B767-400 aircraft and 14 B767-300 aircraft. When completed, United will offer more flat-bed seats than any airline in the world.

·                     The airline will begin expanding the overhead bins in its 152 Airbus aircraft, increasing the available carryon-bag storage space by approximately two-thirds.

·                     United will install satellite-enabled inflight Internet service on its aircraft beginning later in 2012.

Text property and courtesy of: United Airlines, http://www.united.com/press/detail/0,7056,69312,00.html

Published By: Ricardo Madrid A.

United uses the 757 massively for international routes out of its gateways in Newark and Washington-Dulles.

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Lufthansa achieves record punctuality at Frankfurt

January 31st, 2012.

Yesterday, Lufthansa announced that Three months after the new runway at Frankfurt Airport became operational, Lufthansa has drawn up an interim assessment. Since 21 October 2011, the on-time arrival performance rating has risen by more than 14 cent compared with the same period in the previous year, and remains constant at well above 80 per cent. For the first time for many years, Frankfurt is thus on a par with comparable international hubs such as Amsterdam, London Heathrow and Munich with which the airport is in direct competition. However, the strict ban on night flights after 11pm, which was imposed at Frankfurt just as the new runway went into operation, is proving extremely problematic – not only for freighter flights but also as regards the smooth running of passenger services. As a result, 19 flights have had to be transferred to the following day despite the fact that, in many cases, the aircraft would only been airborne for a matter of minutes after 11pm. Many passengers in transit who do not have a visa for Germany have been forced to sleep at the airport on camp beds or on bench seats. 

“The additional capacity we have gained as a result of the new Northwest Runway is immensely important for reliable flight operations at our home base, Frankfurt.  It is essential if we are to maintain our position among the world’s leading international hubs,” explains Kay Kratky, member of the Lufthansa German Airlines Board, Frankfurt & Flight Operations. “But we are also aware that the new runway has led to a redistribution of noise. As a result, some of the residents living within the noise footprint of aircraft using  the Northwest Runway are now affected. At the same time, other neighbouring communities have benefited and now experience less noise, thanks to the new approach and departure routes. With our partners – the airport operator Fraport and German Air Traffic Control (DFS) – we are working intensively on measures to reduce aircraft noise for all those affected as soon as possible.”

The new runway has removed the previous bottlenecks at Frankfurt Airport, and flight operations have become more stable following the increase in capacity. For many passengers in transit, reliable quality is a decisive factor in their choice of airport. In the last three months, thanks to more stable operations, the percentage of passengers missing their connecting flight has fallen by 25 per cent compared with the previous months.

Fewer holding patterns above Frankfurt Airport – Environmental benefits of reducing CO₂emissions and fuel consumption
The environment is also benefiting from the increase in capacity at the airport. Before the new runway went into operation, holding stacks over Frankfurt and the surrounding area were a daily occurrence. Many aircraft often had to circle unnecessarily over the Rhine-Main area before they were granted landing permission. That not only caused delays but also raised CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption. Thanks to the additional capacity for arrivals and departures, airborne waiting times during the approach to Frankfurt have been reduced by two and a half hours per day at Lufthansa alone. Over the past three months, this has led to savings of about five and a half tonnes of jet fuel and 17.3 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per day.

Text property and courtesy of: Lufthansa, http://presse.lufthansa.com/en/news-releases/singleview/archive/2012/january/30/article/2073.html.

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

Lufthansa is the leading airline at Frankfurt, where it hosts its mega hub.

QantasLink expands across Queensland.

January 31st, 2012.

Today, QantasLink announced a significant boost to services throughout Queensland.

QantasLink will launch Boeing 717 services to Rockhampton and Gladstone on 15 March and Mackay on 26 March 2012 following the addition of the B717 aircraft into its fleet.

QantasLink was recently voted the world’s best regional airline by prestigious aviation journal Air Transport World.

QantasLink Executive Manager Narendra Kumar said he was very pleased to announce that QantasLink would be jetting off to three booming Queensland destinations.

“The introduction of QantasLink’s two new B717 aircraft in Queensland will deliver an increase of over 200,000 seats per year in Queensland,” Mr Kumar said.

“QantasLink’s new 115-seat B717 services will offer customers faster flight times and more seats at peak times by complementing existing aircraft on these routes.”

By mid year, the QantasLink B717 services will result in:
- 1,674 additional seats per week to Gladstone which will see QantasLink provide more than 9,100 seats per week on the route.
- 806 additional seats on QantasLink services increasing seats offered by the Qantas Group between Brisbane and Mackay to 13,884 per week (operated by both Jetstar and QantasLink).
- 598 additional seats to Rockhampton, offering over 8,400 seats per week.

QantasLink has also today announced it will introduce new Q300 and Q400 aircraft services across several key Queensland destinations including:
- Increased flights to Emerald from 76 to 84 flights per week resulting in an additional 592 seats.
- Roma will have an additional two flights per week which will offer QantasLink customers 244 extra seats.
- Four extra flights will operate to Bundaberg creating 200 more seats.

QantasLink also recently added new services and upgraded capacity between:
- Cairns and Weipa taking the number of services per week to 34.
- Upgraded two Wednesday services between Cairns and Horn Island and Townsville and Cloncurry/Mt Isa to a Q400 74 seat aircraft.
- A twice weekly service has also been added on the Townsville and Moranbah route.

QantasLink customers can book tickets on these new services from today by visiting qantas.com

Text courtesy and property of: Qantas Airways Limited, http://www.qantas.com.au/regions/dyn/au/publicaffairs/details?ArticleID=2012/jan12/5357.

Published By: Ricardo Madrid A.

QantasLink handles Qantas' regional flights.

Emirates upgrades services to Dublin

January 30th, 2012.

Today, Just three weeks after the launch of flights to Dublin, Emirates has announced a larger aircraft will be deployed on the route from 1st July.

The new passenger service, launched on 9th January, has already become one of the airline’s most successful route launches with load factors driving through 90% for many of the flights.

The daily Dubai-Dublin service is currently operated with a 237-seat Airbus A330-200, arranged in a three class configuration.

“Normally, this would provide enough capacity for the first 2-3 years of a new route operation, said Salem Obaidalla, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Europe & Russian Federation. “However, Dublin is exceeding our expectations much faster than was predicted and we need more seats to satisfy demand.”

From July onwards, the replacement Boeing 777-300ER provides a total of 360 seats, representing an increase in capacity of 52%. The Boeing offers 310 seats in Economy Class, 42 in Business Class and 8 First Class Private Suites.

The 360-seat Boeing 777-300ER will serve Dublin from 1st July.

“A bigger aircraft means more good news for the Irish economy. We can bring extra visitors to the country and carry additional cargo,” said Mr Obaidalla. “The A330-200 can carry up to 15 tonnes of cargo in the belly hold – this figure rises to 25 tonnes with the introduction of the 777.”

Throughout all cabin classes of the 777, passengers will be able to enjoy the 1000-plus channels of the ice entertainment system, thoroughly enjoyed by travellers, especially those connecting through Dubai on longer journeys, or those with children.

Emirates’ passengers departing Dublin can conveniently connect to more than 100 destinations, such as India, Thailand and Australia, with just one stop in Dubai.
While Dublin has been Emirates’ first passenger service into Ireland, the airline has been serving the market through its air freight division for many years, transferring cargo through UK gateways, such as Manchester.

Emirates Holidays, Emirates’ tour operating arm, will feature Dublin in its 2012 A World of Choice brochure. Nine hotels and resorts – including six Dublin City hotels and three resorts outside Dublin – will be carried in the publication.

Return fares from Dubai to Dublin start from AED 2,880 in Economy, AED 14,660 in Business Class and AED 23,820 when travelling in a First Class Private Suite.

Already this year, the airline has launched new routes to Rio and Buenos Aires and will start flights to Lusaka and Harare on 1st February. Dallas will follow from 2nd February, Seattle as of 1st March, Ho Chi Minh City from 4th June and Barcelona effective 3rd July.

Current Dublin flight times:

EK 0161 leaves Dubai at 0700hrs daily and arrives in Dublin at 1130hrs. EK 0162 departs Dublin at 1255hrs and lands in Dubai at 0025hrs the next day.

Summer timings - effective 25th March 2012:

EK 0161 leaves Dubai at 0700hrs daily and arrives in Dublin at 1215hrs. EK 0162 departs Dublin at 1350hrs and lands in Dubai at 0025hrs the next day.

Text and images, property  and courtesy of: Emirates, http://www.emirates.com/english/about/news/news_detail.aspx?article=779072&offset=0

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

American Increases service to Latin America

January 28th, 2012.

Last January 26th, American Airlines announced changes to its spring and summer schedule that will expand the airline's presence in Brazil.  Beginning in December, American's route between Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Sao Paulo (GRU) will operate with the new state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ER, making Brazil the first market for the new aircraft.  Further emphasizing American's commitment to Latin America, the airline will increase its service between DFW and Sao Paulo beginning in June.

In 2010, American announced plans to order the Boeing 777-300ER, demonstrating a continuation of the airline's efforts to enhance its fleet and become more fuel efficient.  American is the first U.S. airline to order and take delivery of the 777-300ER.  The new aircraft is designed to enhance the customer experience and includes fully lie-flat First and Business Class seats, plus seating plans that will allow American to offer a premium product in the Main Cabin and Wi-Fi capability to keep customers connected while traveling internationally. 

American will also increase the total number of weekly flights between DFW and Sao Paulo from seven times per week to 12 times per week beginning June 14.  Also on June 14, flights from Miami to Brasilia (BSB) and to Belo Horizonte (CNF) will increase from five and three times per week, respectively, to daily.

In addition to the increased service between DFW and Sao Paulo, American will launch new service that connects its Miami hub to Manaus, Brazil beginning in June. 

"We recognize the opportunity of the Latin American market. Our increased network announcements, along with the deployment of the 777-300ER, emphasizes American's dedication to the region," said Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer. "We are devoted to our global network strategy and plan to continue capitalizing on international opportunities like those announced today to strengthen our network and provide great customer service."

Manaus will be the seventh destination served by American in Brazil.  American currently offers more routes between the two countries than any other airline.  The flight will be operated on Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 160 seats, including 16 Business Class seats and 144 seats in the Main Cabin. The 737-800 interior offers several unique features, including larger overhead bins that hold more bags than standard overhead bins.  The aircraft also includes additional features such as sculpted sidewalls providing customers a feeling of spaciousness, updated window reveals making the windows appear larger and brighter, and longer-lasting LED lighting to enhance the customer experience.  The route is currently scheduled four times per week, and customers can book travel beginning Jan. 29.  Yesterday, American filed with the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to begin daily service in this market.

From the United States, American offers more flights to more destinations in Latin America than any other carrier.

Text, source and property of: American Airlines, http://aa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3444

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

American's 777-300ER features state-of-the-art characteristics.

Copa Airlines announces services to 4 Destinations

January 28th, 2012.

Last January 25th, Copa Airlines announced that it will begin non-stop service in June 2012 from Panama to four new destinations: Recife, Brazil; Liberia, (Guanacaste), Costa Rica; Las Vegas, Nevada and the island of Curacao.

Passengers who depart or connect to these new flights through Copa's Hub of the Americas at Tocumen International Airport will have access to a network of 63 destinations in 29 countries in North, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.

As part of the airline's strategic plan, Copa will add 10 new Boeing 737-800s Next Generation aircraft this year, for a total of 83 aircraft equipped with cutting-edge technology.

Copa announced the new destinations at a press conference in Panama during the reveal of its new corporate campaign and a recap of the airline's 2011 achievements.  Last year, the airline transported 8.8 million passengers and experienced a growth in capacity of a 20% over 2010.

"Our sustained growth in the past few years has reinforced our position as the leading Latin American provider of passenger and cargo services and made an impact on the business and tourism development of Panama and Latin America," said Copa Airlines CEO, Pedro Heilbron. "We have opened doors to important key markets in the region with connectivity to 59 cities in the Americas."

Copa's achievements have been possible because "of our talented personnel, as we point out in our corporate campaign," Heilbron added. "We will continue to strengthen our leadership position by offering the best service, flight frequencies and destinations for our passengers." Heilbron said that Copa Airlines will continue to add routes as well as enhance schedules and connections in 2012, and expects to transport 10 million passengers and to experience a 20 % increase in capacity .

This growth will have a positive impact on the local economy.  Copa expects to generate more than 626 new positions in 2012 and have more than 7,900 employees system wide by year's end.

The airline also will reinforce its position as a world-class Panamanian company when it joins Star Alliance, the largest global airline alliance, in April 2012. As a result, Copa expects to increase codeshare agreements with additional airlines, especially in Asia and Europe.  In addition, Copa will reaffirm its alliance with Continental Airlines (now United) and its award-winning frequent-flyer program: MileagePlus.

New service:

·                     Recife, Brazil: Starting on June 23, 2012, Copa will offer four-times-weekly service to Recife, capital of the state of Pernambuco in the northern part of Brazil. The new route will be Copa's first in the northern region of Brazil and its seventh Brazilian destination.

·                     Liberia, (Guanacaste) Costa Rica: Earn This twice-weekly flight will increase travel options through the Hub of the Americas to the attractive province of Guanacaste, in Costa Rica, beginning June 24, 2012. Copa's flight will provide the first jet service to this major tourist area from Latin America and will be Copa's second destination in Costa Rica.

·                     Las Vegas, Nev.: As part of its growing North American route system, Copa Airlines will offer four-times-weekly flights to Las Vegas, a major business, convention and tourism destination. The new flight, to begin June 27, 2012, will offer the first direct connecting service from Las Vegas to Central and South America. Las Vegas will be Copa's seventh U.S. destination.

·                     Curacao: Copa will operate flights to this major tourist destination four times a week starting June 10, 2012. Curacao is Copa's 13^th destination in the Caribbean.

Text, property and taken from: Copa Airlines, http://www.copaair.com/sites/co/en/noticias/Pages/consolida-posicion-region.aspx

A Copa Airlines 737-800 Seen during Take-Off.

Boeing and Norwegian Announce Order for 100 737 Max, 22 NextGen 737s

January 26th, 2012.

Yesterday, Boeing  and Norwegian have announced a firm order for 100 fuel-efficient 737 MAX airplanes and 22 Next-Generation 737-800s. The total order is valued at $11.4 billion at list prices and represents the largest-ever Boeing order from a European airline.

Oslo-based Norwegian is the first European carrier to finalize an order for the 737 MAX. The order supports Norwegian's plans to build on the success provided by its fleet of Next-Generation 737-800s for its rapidly expanding operations.

"Norwegian has become one of the largest 737 operators in Europe and has been a valued Boeing partner since the airline was established," said Aldo Basile, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president Sales, Europe. "Since it began operating in 2002, Norwegian has achieved tremendous success with its low-cost model, providing significant value to both its passengers and shareholders."

"This is a historic day for Norwegian – we have secured our fleet renewal for years to come and are very pleased with the agreement with Boeing," said Norwegian's CEO Bjorn Kjos. "Boeing has played a major part in our strategy to develop a cost efficient and environmentally friendly operation with high customer satisfaction. We are very happy to continue our valuable cooperation and we are proud to be the first 737 MAX customer in Europe."

"The 737 MAX will deliver fuel savings better than any competing single-aisle airplane on the market," said Basile. "We're really pleased to provide this great performance to Norwegian. Improved financial performance and improved environmental performance go hand-in-hand as fuel burn is lowered."

The 737 MAX is the new-engine variant of the world's best-selling airplane and builds on the strengths of today's Next-Generation 737. The airplane will be powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines which will reduce fuel burn and CO2 emissions by an additional 10-12 percent over today's most fuel-efficient single-aisle airplane. The 737 MAX will have the lowest operating costs in the single-aisle segment with a 7 percent advantage per seat over tomorrow's competition.

This order continues the momentum for the 737 MAX. With the Norwegian order, the 737 MAX has orders and commitments for more than 1,000 airplanes from 15 customers and the Next-Generation 737 family has orders for more than 6,300 airplanes.

Norwegian currently operates a fleet of 62 airplanes: 48 Next-Generation 737-800s and 14 737-300s. Including today's announcement, Norwegian has 184 unfilled orders for Boeing airplanes including: 100 737 MAX airplanes, 78 Next-Generation 737-800s and six 787 Dreamliners from Boeing and leasing company partners.

Norwegian also announced a commitment for 100 A320 NEO's, but this is still to be finalized.

Norwegian Air Shuttle operates the Boeing Sky Interior.

Source and property of: The Boeing Company, official statement.

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

Brussels Airlines debuts with brand-new Business and Economy Class seats

January 26th, 2012.

Last January 10th, Brussels Airlines announced that Flying to New York or one of the numerous African destinations on the Brussels Airlines network will become more comfortable than ever. The airline invests 30 million euro this year in comfortable flatbed seats in Business Class, generous seating comfort in Economy Class, trendy design and revolutionary entertainment technology. Thanks to this new quality product Brussels Airlines reinforces its position as the reference airline offering the highest levels of quality.

The passenger cabins of the seven Brussels Airlines Airbus A330 aircraft will undergo a genuine makeover in 2012, focused on design, innovation, comfort and the highest levels of quality. “We're introducing this superior in-flight product based on the newest technology and based on the feedback of thousands of passengers creates high expectations and ambitions”, says co-CEO Bernard Gustin.

Business Class

Brussels Airlines Business Class passengers will soon enjoy a new trendy premium seat that can be turned into a real ‘flatbed’(180° flat position) of nearly two meters in the blink of an eye. But there’s more. The flat bed is equipped with a pneumatic cushion which allows the passenger to choose between a “soft” or a “hard” seat, according to preference, and whereby the body weight is never pressed against the seat. Brussels Airlines is one of the first airlines in the world to introduce this “Pneumatic Cushion” technology in an even more advanced version.

The flat bed also offers relaxing massage possibilities and LED mood lighting, plenty of storage for shoes or reading material and warm, contemporary colours complete the superior comfort. The seat belts carry an airbag. Thanks to the ingenious cabin configuration not less than 24 of the 30 seats have direct aisle access. 10 of the 30 Business Class passengers have no adjacent seat and all seats guarantee lots of privacy.

Economy Class

Passengers flying in Economy Class will soon travel in a stylish, ergonomic seat designed by Italian designers offering more legroom and seat comfort. Passengers will surely appreciate the 83 cm legroom that will allow them to relax even more during their flight. The headrest is adjustable in height and in width. The individual touch screen, equipped with USB port, measures not less than 22, 6 cm.

Revolutionary inflight entertainment system

The new RAVE in-flight entertainment technology, of which Brussels Airlines is amongst the launch customers, is undoubtedlyrevolutionary. Both in Business and in Economy Class the RAVE programme will be available in six different languages. The individual Business Class screen is not less than 38, 9 cm (15,3") with navigation through modern tablet style ”touch and scroll”. The on demand entertainment system, that is wirelessly connected to every individual screen (and therefore more reliable than traditional centrally-driven systems) contains over 100 hours of movies and documentaries, news programmes, games, audio and e-reading material. Passengers can even connect their own iPad or other devices to the screen in Business Class. No one will get bored on board our intercontinental flights.

Another new technology is the ‘Niceview’ flight information programme (developed by Lufthansa Technik), offering a three-dimensional view from various camera perspectives (aircraft, cockpit, cabin, ...) on which passengers can follow the exact course of the aircraft. A window seat is not necessary anymore to have a (virtual but very realistic) view on the area surrounding the aircraft. The system also offers information on connecting flights.

A new dimension

Brussels Airlines invests close to 30 million euro in its long haul fleet. Also the lavatories and galleys will be completely refurbished. “A large investment that gives a new dimension to the term “passenger comfort”, says Brussels Airlines co-CEO Bernard Gustin. “Customers boarding a Brussels Airlines long haul aircraft will have the feeling they are entering a brand new aircraft. If we compare this level of comfort to the product of other airlines on transatlantic flights or routes to and from Africa, we can conclude that we will become a real precursor and trendsetter of quality in terms of seats, relax possibilities, leg room and entertainment technology.

The refurbishing of the long haul fleet is at the same time a “green” investment. Thanks to the use of modern materials, the weight per aircraft decreases and consequently also the fuel usage and CO2 emissions.”

The first renewed aircraft will be operational as from spring 2012. Lufthansa Technik will perform the refurbishing. The new scheduled services to New York will be operated with the new in-flight product and the upgrade will be gradually available on the African network in 2012.

Text courtesy and property of: Brussels Airlines,  http://corporate.brusselsairlines.com/en_be/corp/news/press-releases/Default.aspx.

Published by: Ricardo Madrid A.

Brussels Airlines' long-haul flights are operated with the A330.

Air China to use 777-300ER to LAX

January 25th, 2012.

Last January 12th, Dr. Zhihang Chi, Air China’s Vice President & General Manager for North America, officially announced today the deployment of one of Air China’s B777-300 ERs on the Los Angeles-Beijing route effective February 1, 2012.

As the largest long-range twin-engine jetliner, the B777-300ER is cleaner, greener and more fuel-efficient. It also brings twin-engine efficiency and reliability to the long-range market.

“With its numerous performance enhancements in the range and payload capabilities, the B777-300ER is the perfect aircraft for the Los Angeles-Beijing route. The upgrade enhances Air China’s advantage in the highly competitive Los Angeles market,” Dr. Chi stated.

On September 1, 2011, Air China doubled its daily flight between Los Angeles and Beijing, the first time in the company’s history that the capacity is increased in a daily fashion to an international point. The new state-of-the-art B777-300ER will debut on the night flight, CA 984/CA983, between LAX and Beijing. Air China is the only airline that provides nonstop service between these two cities.

Passengers of Air China will be treated to a host of onboard amenities. The environment-friendly B777-300ER delivers better fuel performance and is much quieter than other aircraft. Its sculpted side walls, ceiling and overhead carry-on compartments create a feeling of openness and space. The aircraft cabin is configured with 8 Forbidden Pavilion First Class luxury suites, 41 fully-flat Capital Pavilion Business Class seats and 259 Economy Class seats. The enhanced entertainment system features generous monitor screens at 23 inches in Ffirst Cclass , 15 inches in Business Class and 9 inches in Economy Class. In addition, there is a wide range of audio and video on demand (AVOD) programs and a 3D Airshow. Personal power outlets are available in all three cabins.

Designed to ensure maximum passenger comfort, the interior of Air China’s B777-300ER features ten mood lighting variations in the Forbidden and Capital Pavilions, each timed to complement the various phases of a flight—from boarding through meal service, sleeping and pre-arrival. The ambient lighting recreates the sunset, night and sunrise to reflect the various services associated with each phase and creates a totally relaxing environment. The Air Over fridge-typed galley preserves the freshness of the inflight meals, ensuring Air China’s passengers top quality food throughout the duration of the flight. Additionally, wardrobe lockers, central bars, espresso, wine coolers, and a box for small items are available in premium cabins.

“The current day flight between Los Angeles and Beijing (CA 988/CA 987) will be upgraded to the B777-300ER in June 2012. Later this year and in early 2013, our New York and San Francisco routes are expected to be upgraded to the same aircraft as well,” Dr. Chi said.

Text courtesy and property of: Air China International, http://www.airchina.us/en/aboutus/airchinanews/2012/20120120.html

Published By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Air China's 777-300ER seen landing

Qatar Airways resumes flights to Tripoli

January 24th, 2012.

Yesterday, Qatar Airways announced it will resume flights to the Libyan capital Tripoli from February 2.

Qatar Airways Resumes Flights To Tripoli

The airline will reintroduce scheduled services between Doha and Tripoli after suspending operations last year due to the political situation. The carrier had been flying to Tripoli for nine years.

Initially, the re-launched route will be served three-times-a-week, via Alexandria, with plans to increase capacity at a later date.

Qatar Airways currently flies to Libya’s north eastern Mediterranean port city of Benghazi with four flights each week, direct from Doha.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said reviving the Tripoli flights, now that the political situation had eased, was a welcome boost to the airline’s operations helping meet demand to and from the Libyan capital.

“Libya is an important market for us and it was unfortunate that unfolding events there had affected operations on safety grounds of all airlines flying to the country,” he said.

“We are delighted to be going back to Tripoli shortly and provide and help revive the much-needed air transport system in the country after the difficulties of the past few months.”

Qatar Airways will operate the Tripoli route with an Airbus A320 in a two-class configuration, offering 12 seats in First Class and 132 in Economy.

Aside from Tripoli, Benghazi is a major economic centre and a key destination for trade and exports with Libya’s second largest city home to many industries, including oil refining, food processing, cement production and tuna fishing.

Qatar Airways, one of the world’s fastest growing airlines, will expand its award-winning Five Star services to nine destinations during 2012 – Baku (Azerbaijan) from February 1; Tbilisi (Georgia) from February 1; Kigali (Rwanda) from March 21; Zagreb (Croatia) from May 9; Perth (Australia) from July 3; Gassim (Saudi Arabia), Helsinki (Finland), Mombasa (Kenya) and Zanzibar (Tanzania).

The DOHA – TRIPOLI schedules, with effect from 2 February 2012 are:-
Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays
Depart Doha	QR510 at 0705 hrs, arrive Tripoli at 1400 hrs via Alexandria
Depart Tripoli	QR511 at 1500 hrs, arrive Doha at 2210 hrs via Alexandria

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Source, image and text courtesy and property of: Qatar Airways, http://www.qatarairways.com/global/en/press-release.page?pr_id=pressrelease_pressrelease_20120123.

Edited By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Delta is Most Tech-friendly airline in the U.S.

January 23rd, 2012.

Last January 19th, Delta Air Lines was named top tech friendly U.S. Airline by PC World magazine, for its airport recharging stations, in-flight Wi-Fi on more domestic flights than any other carrier and smartphone apps with innovative features including baggage tracking and airport check-in. The publication also highlighted Delta's 24-hour customer service via Twitter from @DeltaAssist, as well as the ability to book tickets directly from Facebook.

"We're providing customers with technology tools to keep them connected during their travel experience on the ground and in the air," said Bob Kupbens, Delta's vice president – eCommerce. "When you literally have the tools in the palm of your hand to track your bag at 30,000 feet or check the status of your connecting flight, it helps eliminate the stress of travel and puts customers in control."

Delta's tech-friendly offerings are part of the airline's previously announced plan to invest more than $2 billion in enhanced global products, services and airport facilities through 2013.

Installation of branded recharging stations in Delta's top 19 airports, including all of its domestic hubs, was complete in 2010. Wi-Fi is available on all of Delta's domestic mainline aircraft, and installation on all of its two-class regional jets will be complete by the end of March 2012. When completed, customers will have access to in-flight Wi-Fi on more than 800 aircraft flying 3,000 daily domestic flights every day.

The popular Fly Delta app was launched on the iPhone in the fall of 2010. BlackBerry, Android and Windows versions followed soon after.  The apps provide eBoarding check-in options in 79 cities worldwide, the ability to track and pay for bags, alerts for updated travel information, airport and aircraft details, and a parking reminder.

Delta's Ticket Counter allows Facebook users to book travel or check-in for their upcoming flight using a dedicated "tab" atfacebook.com/delta without navigating to delta.com. Innovative tools like the Delta Away We Go app lets customers share and plan their travel with family and friends. Delta has continued to expand its social interaction with customers on twitter.com/delta,blog.delta.com and also provides real-time travel assistance at twitter.com/deltaassist in English andtwitter.com/deltaassist_ES in Spanish.

Source and courtesy of: Delta Air Lines, http://news.delta.com/index.php?s=43&item=1525.

Delta's app is available free of charge at the APP Store.

Emirates increases service to Iraq

January 23rd, 2012.

Last January 18th, In an initiative to support developing Iraqi business segments, Emirates has announced a 75 per-cent additional capacity increase between Dubai and Baghdad, growing its services to seven flights per week. 

Starting from 2nd February 2012, EK941 will depart daily from Dubai at 07:55am touching down at Baghdad International Airport at 09:40am the same day. At 11:35am, return flight EK942 will depart Baghdad arriving in Dubai at 14:55pm the same day.

Emirates will increase existing capacity to Baghdad by 75% per week starting from 2nd Feb 2012.

“Since launching flights to the Iraqi capital three months ago our operations have gone from strength to strength, on both the passenger and cargo side. There is a significant demand for travel in and out of Baghdad and this new daily service offers a significant boost to this strategically important route for Emirates,” Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Gulf, Middle East and Iran said.

Emirates’ additional flights are a key element in supporting Iraq’s rebuilding efforts. In particular the UAE has a significant interest in promoting trade and investment with Iraq, as highlighted by the latest trade figures released by the Iraqi Embassy.

The extra flights will increase existing capacity by 75% per week in both directions, making it easier for both business and leisure travellers in Baghdad to connect to Emirates’ network of global destinations. Popular destinations will include; the GCC, Levant, India, China, US and the UK via Dubai.

The service will continue to be operated by an Airbus 330-200 in a three class configuration, offering 12 seats in First Class, 42 seats in Business Class and 183 seats in Economy Class.

In addition to Baghdad’s flight, Emirates currently operates a four weekly service to Basra in Iraq and has offices located in both Basra and Baghdad.

Emirates’ first flight to Baghdad landed on November 13th 2011. 

Text and images source and courtesy of: Emirates Airline, http://www.emirates.com/english/about/news/news_detail.aspx?article=773431&offset=0

Edition by: Ricardo Madrid A.

Alaska expands in San Diego

January 19th, 2012.

Yesterday, Alaska Airlines announced it is adding daily nonstop service from San Diego to Monterey and Santa Rosa and twice daily service to Fresno. The new flights to Monterey and Fresno will begin June 4, 2012, while service from San Diego to Santa Rosa starts June 5. Alaska Airlines will also commence twice-daily service between Reno/Tahoe and San Jose (CA).


"We're thrilled to bring Alaska's low fares and award-winning customer service to beautiful Monterey," said Joe Sprague, Alaska Airlines' vice president of marketing. "Alaska Airlines has proudly served California for more than 30 years and we're pleased to continue to grow our presence in the Golden State."

Summary of new service: 

San Diego-Fresno flights:
Start Date	City Pair	Departs	Arrives	Frequency
June 4	San Diego-Fresno	9:15 a.m.	10:50 a.m.	Daily
June 4	San Diego-Fresno	8:45 p.m.	10:20 p.m.	Daily
June 4	Fresno-San Diego	7:15 a.m.	8:42 a.m.	Daily
June 4	Fresno-San Diego	6:45 p.m.	8:12 p.m.	Daily
San Diego-Monterey flights:
Start Date	City Pair	Departs	Arrives	Frequency
June 4	San Diego-Monterey	6:55 p.m.	8:37 p.m.	Daily
June 5	Monterey-San Diego	7:30 a.m.	9:12 a.m.	Daily
San Diego-Santa Rosa flights:
Start Date	City Pair	Departs	Arrives	Frequency
June 5	San Diego-Santa Rosa	9:45 a.m.	11:50 a.m.	Daily
June 4	Santa Rosa-San Diego	4:25 p.m.	6:22 p.m.	Daily
San Jose-Reno flights:
Start Date	City Pair	Departs	Arrives	Frequency
June 5	Reno-San Jose	6 a.m.	7:08 a.m.	Daily
June 4	Reno-San Jose	2:15 p.m.	3:23 p.m.	Daily
June 4	San Jose-Reno	11:55 a.m.	1 p.m.	Daily
June 4	San Jose-Reno	10:20 p.m.	11:25 p.m.	Daily
To celebrate Alaska’s new service, the carrier is offering $59* fares on flights from San Diego to Fresno and Monterey; and $69* fares on flights between San Diego and Santa Rosa, and between San Jose and Reno. Tickets must be purchased by Jan. 25 and can be used for travel from June 5 through July 18, 2012. Visitwww.alaskaair.com. to purchase a ticket or call 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522 or TTY/TDD line 1-800-392-0228). Members of Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan can also earn double miles on the new nonstop flights between June 4 and July 31, 2012. To qualify, customers must first register at www.alaskaair.com. The new routes will be operated for Alaska by Horizon Air using 76-seat Bombardier Q400s. Travelers will enjoy Horizon’s award-winning onboard service, which includes complimentary Starbucks coffee, soft drinks, and (for passengers 21 and older) wines and microbrews. To support the new Santa Rosa-San Diego route, Alaska Airlines will discontinue service between Santa Rosa and Las Vegas on June 3, 2012. However, the airline is adding a third flight between Santa Rosa and Los Angeles, which will operate four days a week through Aug. 25, 2012.

Source: Alaska Airlines, http://splash.alaskasworld.com/Newsroom/ASNews/ASstories/AS_20120118_045431.asp
By: Ricardo Madrid A.

The routes will be operated by Horizon Air Q400s.

US Airways expanding at Washington D.C.

January 19th, 2012.

Earlier this month, US Airways announced that it will expand service for customers by starting service to 11 new destinations and adding flights to three existing destinations at Reagan National Airport following the closing of its slot transaction with Delta Air Lines. Eight of the 11 new communities that the airline will serve currently have no service to Washington's downtown airport. The new flights that begin on March 25th are the next step in US Airways' plan to focus on its core service areas of Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Phoenix and Charlotte.

"We are excited to expand our service to customers traveling to and from our nation's capital as well as increase jobs at Washington National Airport," said US Airways Chairman and CEO Doug Parker. "When our expansion is completed, US Airways will offer more than 230 daily flights and directly support more than 1,500 aviation jobs at Washington National."

The final phase of the airline's plan to focus on its core service areas starts July 11, 2012 and will add more new routes from Washington, which will be announced in February. To support the expanded service, US Airways will add more gates at Reagan National, build a second US Airways Club conveniently located near its new departure gates, and will hire approximately 125 airport customer service and fleet service employees.

Washington, D.C. Expansion

In the first phase of its expansion at Washington, US Airways will add the following new flights, which beginMarch 25:

·                     Nonstop, daily flights to Birmingham, Ala.; Fayetteville, N.C.; Islip, N.Y.; Little Rock, Ark.; Jacksonville, N.C.;Pensacola, Fla.; Tallahassee, Fla. and Ft. Walton Beach, Fla. These destinations currently have no existing service from Reagan National.

·                     New service will also be added to Memphis, Tenn.; Omaha, Neb. and Ottawa, Ontario. These communities are currently served by other carriers at Reagan National.

·                     Daily flights will be added to Bangor, Maine and Savannah, Ga., which US Airways currently serves on weekends.

·                     A daily nonstop frequency will be added to Hartford, Conn.

At New York's LaGuardia Airport, US Airways will operate a reduced schedule over current levels. It will remain the third largest carrier at the airport, offering customers 65 daily weekday flights. The airline will continue to operate its popular hourly dual-class Shuttle service to Washington and Boston, and high-frequency service to itsCharlotte and Philadelphia hubs. US Airways will also continue to serve Pittsburgh and its Phoenix hub from LaGuardia. All US Airways flights will continue to arrive and depart from Terminal C, where the airline will build a new, state-of-the-art 3,500 square foot US Airways Club that will be completed this spring.

Once both phases of the transition are complete, 99 percent of the airline's available seat miles (ASMs) will operate to or from its core service areas and US Airways Shuttle. This represents a 16 percentage point change from 2006, when, following the merger of US Airways and America West Airlines, only 83 percent of the airline's ASMs touched its core focus areas and US Airways Shuttle.

US Airways analysis of its Reagan National hub will soon be available at airline-net.

Source: US Airways, http://flights.usairways.com/en-US/aboutus/pressroom/pressreleases.html

By: Ricardo Madrid A.

US Airways has large operations at DCA, PHL, PHX, and CLT.

Delta and WestJet to codeshare

January 19th, 2012.


On January 17th, Delta Air Lines and WestJet from Canada announced a codesharing agreement on flights between the United States and Canada, further expanding the partnership between the two carriers. The codeshare flights are available for purchase now for service beginning January 23, 2012.


Last year, Delta and WestJet began an interline agreement that allowed customers to purchase connecting flights on one ticket, receive boarding passes for all segments at their first check-in, and tag bags through to their final destination.


Under the first phase of the codeshare agreement, Delta will place its code on WestJet flights to more than 15 cities, while the WestJet code will be added on Delta flights on five markets, expanding the networks of both airlines for customers flying between the United States and Canada. People who are part of Delta's SkyMiles program and WestJet's Frequent Guest Program will be able to earn miles or rewards on the codeshare flights, providing customers another benefit of the enhanced relationship.


Charlie Pappas, Delta's Alliances vice-president commented that "Our codeshare partnership with WestJet means an array of expanded travel options in the U.S. and Canada for our customers, with easy access to the airline's extensive Canadian network and trans-border service between Canada and the United States".

"We are pleased to welcome Delta Air Lines' customers aboard our WestJet flights and offer our guests new opportunities to access Delta's extensive network", said John MacLeod, WestJet Vice-President, Network Management and Alliances. "We very much look forward to adding more codeshare destinations to our Delta partnership in the near future."

Flights in the agreement include:

Delta code on WestJet-operated flights

Between	And
Toronto (YYZ)	Edmonton (YEG)
Toronto (YYZ)	Halifax (YHZ)
Toronto (YYZ)	Kelowna (YLW)
Toronto (YYZ)	Ottawa (YOW)
Toronto (YYZ)	Regina (YQR)
Toronto (YYZ)	Thunder Bay (YQT)
Toronto (YYZ)	Vancouver (YVR)
Toronto (YYZ)	Calgary (YYC)
Toronto (YYZ)	Charlottetown (YYG)
Toronto (YYZ)	St. Johns (YYT)
Calgary (YYC)	Las Vegas (LAS)
Calgary (YYC)	Kelowna (YLW)
Calgary (YYC)	Regina (YQR)
Calgary (YYC)	Vancouver (YVR)
Calgary (YYC)	Winnipeg (YWG)
Calgary (YYC)	Saskatoon (YXE)
Calgary (YYC)	Victoria (YYJ)
Vancouver (YVR)	Honolulu (HNL)
Vancouver (YVR)	Las Vegas (LAS)
Vancouver (YVR)	Kelowna (YLW)
Edmonton (YEG)	Kelowna (YLW)
Edmonton (YEG)	Victoria (YYJ)
Winnipeg (YWG)	Montreal (YUL)
Halifax (YHZ)	St. Johns (YYT)

WestJet code on Delta flights

Between	And
Detroit (DTW)	Montreal (YUL)
Detroit (DTW)	Ottawa (YOW)
Detroit (DTW)	Quebec City (YQB)
Detroit (DTW)	Toronto (YYZ)
Boston (BOS)	Toronto (YYZ)

A portion of travel for some itineraries may be on Delta Connection® carriers: Chautauqua, Comair, Compass Airlines, ExpressJet Airlines, Inc., GoJet Airlines, Mesaba, Pinnacle Airlines, Shuttle America dba Delta Shuttle, and SkyWest.

Tickets are available for sale via delta.com, westjet.com, and other ticketing ways.

Source: Delta Air Lines, http://news.delta.com/index.php?s=43&item=1523.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.

WestJet's main hub is located at Calgary, from where it operates an extensive network. Image Courtesy of: Airline Route Maps.com

American introduces complimentary alcohol

January 18th, 2012.

Today, American Airlines announced that it invites customers to raise a glass, because beginning February 1st, customers travelling in the main cabin on American's international flights between the U.S and Europe, Asia and certain countries in South America can enjoy beer and wine- complimentary of the airline - as part of inflight beverage service.

Rob Friedman, American's Vice-President for Marketing commented on the matter "Offering Complimentary beer and wine to our loyal customers in all classes of service allows American to better align our product offering with fellow oneworld alliance members and is another example of our commitment to enhance the travel experience", he also added that "Our customers asked for complimentary beer and wine, and we listened. Starting Feb. 1, when a customer travels internationally onboard American, we invite them to have a drink on us".

Customers travelling on American-operated flights between the U.S. and Europe, the U.S. and Asia and onboard long-haul flights between the U.S. and Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay, beginning next month, can choose from a variety of complimentary beer and wine options. This is an addition to the full selection of nonalcoholic beverages available on these flights. Liquor will be available for purchase as it is today.

Selections may vary but will include Red and White wines, specially selected by American's wine consultant Ken Chase, and a wide selection of beers. Beer, wine and spirits will remain complimentary for customers travelling in First and Business Class cabins. If you are interested in finding out more details about American's beverage service, visit www.aa.com/beerandwine.

Source: American Airlines, http://aa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3434.
By: Ricardo Madrid A.

American will offer wine on select flights, as well as beer.

United Continental December 2011 report

January 18th, 2012.

Last January 9th, United Continental reported December 2011 operational results for its United Airlines and Continental Airlines units. United and Continental's consolidated traffic (revenue passenger miles) in December 2011 decreased 0.7 percent versus December 2010 results on a combined capacity (available seat miles) decreased of 0.1 percent. The carrier's combined consolidated load factor in December 2011 decreased 0.5 points compared to the same period in 2010.

United and Continental's December 2011 combined consolidated and mainline passenger revenue per available seat mile (PRASM) increased an estimated 4.0 to 5.0 percent and 3.5 to 4.5 percent, respectively, as compared to December 2010.

Photo: United Airlines. By: Ricardo Madrid A. Source: United Airlines, http://www.united.com/press/detail/0,7056,69282,00.html

Emirates doubles Glasgow service

January 16th, 2012.

Last January 10, Emirates announced plans to introduce a second daily non-stop flight to Glagow, beginning the 1st of June, 2012. The announcement comes as Emirates had been experiencing continued demand for its services between Dubai and Glasgow, which had begun in 2004. Since then, the airline has carried over 1.7 million passengers and tens of millions of kilos of cargo on the route.

The additional flight, summed with an aircraft upgrade on the existing service, will increase Emirates' capacity to Glasgow by 47 percent, an extra 199 seats each way per day. It will also provide an additional 13 tonnes of daily cargo capacity.Both daily services will include First Class cabins, which means Emirates will be the first airline to offer such services to Scotland.

Flight EK 026 will depart daily from Glasgow's airport at 21:30 and arrive in Dubai at 8:00 the next day. The existin day-time flight EK027/EK 028 is being upgraded to a three-class Boeing 777-300ER with eight First Class Private Suits, 42 lie-flat beds in Business Class and 310 seats in Economy Class, providing a total of 360 seats.

Glasgow authorities estimate that the twice-daily service will deliver a local economic benefit of AED 187 million with almost 140,000 inbound passengers in 2012 alone. Over the next five years, the route will be worth more than AED 1.1 Billion to the city, bringing more than 846,000 inbound passengers to Glasgow through to 2016.

Emirates' senior vice-president for commercial operations in Europe and the Russian federation commented on the matter ''This announcement illustrates our commitment to Scotland and to our wider UK route network in difficult economic times''.




Source: Emirates, http://www.emirates.com/english/about/news/news_detail.aspx?article=771335&offset=0.
By: Ricardo Madrid A.

The Emirates' Boeing 777-300ER features luxurious private suites in First Class, lie-flat seats in Business Class, bot with integrated passenger seat control, a new generation Economy seats and Emirate's award-winning entertainment system.

S7 Airlines to fly Moscow-Valencia

January 16th, 2012.

Last December, S7 Airlines announced the launching of new flights to Valencia, Spain in the summer season of 2012. Valencia is going to be the third city in Spain you can visit by travelling with S7 Airlines, The company already performs flights to Madrid and Alicante.

Flights will be made on Saturdays beginning from June 02,2012, the flight will depart from Moscow Domodedovo airport at 16:50, arriving in Valencia at 20:05 local time. While the return flight will depart from Valencia at 20:55 and arrive in Moscow at 03:55. Flights will be performed on the Airbus A319 aircraft, which is designed to carry a total of 128 economy and business class passengers.

Tickets are already available for purchase and the minimum cost of a return ticket is 400 Euro, they may be purchased at the S7 website, the mobile website,at any sales office and by dialing the call centre of the company at 8-800-200-000-7, which is free for Russia.

Source: http://www.s7.ru/en/about_us/news/2011/12/2011_12_14_S7_Airlines_new_flight_to_Valencia.html
S7 Airlines
By: Ricardo Madrid A.

S7 currently operates a total of 20 A319's and is a full-member of the Oneworld Alliance.

January 15th, 2012.Previously announced retiring of Turboprop aircraft from the AA Dallas/Fort Worth hub is set to be completed from January 31st, 2012. As a result of this change, Fourteen markets throughout Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas will have all-jet service, American will operate daily flights to each of the destinations with a combination of 37-, 44- and 50-seat jets. 

American's managing director, Gary Foss, commented on the matter "We are pleased to once again provide jet service to all Eagle destinations from our hub in Dallas/Fort Worth''. American also trusts their customers will enjoy the comfortable, quiet ride of these Embraer jets, which will enhance their overall travel experience.

The cities that are served from Dallas/Fort Worth that will switch to all-jet service on Jan 31. can be seen in the following chart:

Destination	Daily Departures
College Station, Texas	3
Fort Smith, Ark.	4
Joplin, Mo.	2
Killeen, Texas	9
Lawton, Okla.	5
Longview, Texas	2
Lubbock, Texas	7
Monroe, La.	2
Shreveport, La.	7
San Angelo, Texas	4
Waco, Texas	4
Wichita Falls, Texas	3
Texarkana, Texas	3
Tyler, Texas	4

       Source: American Airlines.

By: Ricardo Madrid.

Link: http://aa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3430

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January 15th, 2012.

Last January 10th, in Tokyo, Japan ANA (All Nippon Airways) announced the resuming of their previously abandoned flights between Nagoya's Chubu Centrair Airport and Shanghai's Pudong Airport. Flights will operate everyday beginning next summer, on March 25th 2012.

Flights are to be operated on the Boeing 737-700 aircraft, flight NH939 will depart Nagoya at 10:40 and arrive at Shanghai at 12:15, and flight NH940 will depart Shanghai at 13:20 and arrive at Nagoya's airport at 16:40. The ANA Boeing 737-700 is configured to carry a total of 120 passengers, 8 in Business Class and 112 in Economy Class. The service will complement ANA's operation at Nagoya, from where it currently serves 3 International cities and 13 Domestic cities, including subsidiaries.

Tickets can be purchased via www.fly-ana.com or by contacting any ticket seller in Japan or China.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Source: http://www.ana.co.jp/wws/us/e/local/about_ana/corp_info/pr/2012/120110.html

ANA Currently operates 16 Boeing 737-700's and operates a total of 18 Boeing 737 aircraft (not including subsidiaries).

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Air China to Gatwick

January 14th, 2012.

Air China announced that next May 1, they would launch flights from Beijing-Capital to London-Gatwick. This new service is intended to provide passengers with more convenient international flight options and more access to domestic flight connections through the Beijing Hub. When this service begins, Air China will be operating simultaneously non-stop flights from Beijing to London Heathrow and Gatwick.

Flight CA852 will depart from London-Gatwick on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 13:15. Flight CA851 will depart from Beijing Capital Airport on the same days at 1:35, all flights will be served onboard the Air China A330-200 Aircraft, configured to carry either 30 or 12 business class passengers and 207 or 271 economy class passengers depending on the configuration used.

This service will complement Air China's Beijing service to important european airports , Copenhagen (service to copenhagen is scheduled to resume 2 June 2012), Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, London-Heathrow, Madrid, Milan-Malpensa, Moscow-Sheremetyevo, Munich, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Rome-Fiumicino, and Stockholm-Arlanda. As well as complement Air Chinas domestic network and Asian Network.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.
Source: http://www.airchina.co.uk/en/aboutus/airchinanews/2011/20111120.html



Air China's A330-200 will operate the flights.

 

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Southwest to fly Atlanta to Los Angeles

January 11th, 2012.

Today, Southwest Airlines announced plans to operate one new daily nonstop flight between Atlanta and Los Angeles beginning June 10, 2012. This will be in addition to the three daily flights operated by AirTran, Southwest's wholly-owned subsidiary. The new route will connect two destinations popular for both leisure and business. Flights can be booked via Southwest.com or airtran.com.

Southwest will begin service to Atlanta on February 12, 2012. Adding 15 daily nonstops to Baltimore/Washington, Chicago-Midway, Denver, Houston Hobby, and Austin. Additionally, on March 10 Southwest will add daily, nonstop service between Atlanta and Las Vegas, as well as Atlanta and Phoenix.

Adding Atlanta to the Southwest network means Southwest will add Georgia to its route map of 73 US Airports. This service will mostly complement AirTrans flights to Los Angeles and their flights from Atlanta to another 52 cities, both internationally and domestically.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.
Source: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/southwest-airlines-announces-new-route-between-atlanta-and-los-angeles-137109513.html

Southwest Airlines operates an all-737 fleet and the largest one of that type.

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American, British and Iberia partner to offer great deals

January 11th, 2012.

Today, American Airlines and its Oneworld partners British Airways and Iberia have released details on their fare sale, this sale is the result of a team up between the three of them to offer cheaper tickets to Europe. To take advantage of this fares, your travels must initiate in the United States and you must purchase tickets by January 24th and at least 7 days before travel. Sale fares are valid for outbound travel through April 1, 2012 and all travels at this fare  must be completed by September 26, 2012.

The special promotional fares are valid for travel between the U.S. and Europe Monday through Thursday ; other days are subject to higher fares. Fares are valid for travel between the United States and United Kingdom Monday through Wednesday; other days are subject to higher fares. A Saturday night stay is required, and the maximum stay allowed is 180 days.

Some examples of fares for Economy Class travel on the off-peak days are identified above. The fares shown are each way based on round-trip travel and include surchrages. A portion of, or all travel for some itineraries, may be operated by American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia, American Eagle or the American Connection carrier under Chautauqua Airlines:

• Boston - London Heathrow : $250 (USD).
• Chicago O'Hare - Paris Charles de Gaulle: $306 (USD).
• Dallas/Fort Worth - Dublin: $310 (USD).
• Los Angeles - London Heathrow: $291 (USD).
• New York JFK - Manchester (UK): $250 (USD).
• New York JFK - London Heathrow: $250 (USD).
• Miami - Madrid: $287 (USD).
• New York JFK - Brussels: $308 (USD).
• New York JFK - Rome Fiumicino: $358 (USD).
• Washington National - London Heathrow: $265 (USD).
• Indianapolis - Manchester (UK) : $274 (USD).
• St.Louis - Madrid : $277 (USD).
• Miami - Barcelona : $287 (USD).
• St.Louis - Dublin: $288 (USD).
• Los Angeles - Manchester (UK) : $291 (USD).
• Philadelphia - Madrid : $298 (USD).
• Miami - Dublin: $301 (USD).
• Washington National - Paris Charles de Gaulle: $303 (USD).
• New York JFK - Budapest : $304 (USD).
• Atlanta - Stockholm Arlanda: $460 (USD).
• Albuquerque - Vienna: $356 (USD).
• Birmingham (AL) - Geneva: $317 (USD).

Many more cities can be booked through AA.COM. Taxes, Fees, Conditions and Details can be found at the provided source.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Source: http://aa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3429

AA has partnered with BA, and IB to offer the lowest fares to europe.

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Malaysia's new strategy

January 11th, 2012.

Last January 8th, Malaysia airlines announced its new strategy, which had previously been fading away from Europe and the Middle East to focus on Asia and North America. This time there will be several increases in frequencies, specially on flights operated on Boeing 737 aircraft, flights that will experience an increase in available seats and flights will be from Kuala Lumpur to Manila, Phnom Penh, Jakarta, Medan, Bangkok, Beijing, Taipei and Los Angeles.

Flights to Manila currently operate twice daily, and will have an increase of seven weekly flights from the 25th of March 2012, that's 50% more which means more than 1,120 extra seats on the route which is currently flown by the Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The Kuala Lumpur-Phnom Penh route, which operates nine times per week, will be increased in two stages, first (effective March 25, 2012) by two weekly flights and then (effective 1 May 2012) by three weekly flights. For the Jakarta sector, Malaysia will introduce two additional weekly flights effective March 25, 2012. Kuala Lumpur to Medan will finally make it two the second daily flight with the addition of another weekly service on Fridays.

Another city with an increase will be Bangkok, which will complete its fourth daily flight with the addition of another weekly service on Sunday's. The biggest increase comes for Beijing, which will experience double the seats available, with the introduction of the second daily 777-200 flight from Kuala Lumpur, this will make 1,974 more seats available for customers effective March 25, 2012. Flights to Los Angeles will be re-routed through Tokyo's Narita Airport instead of the current Taipei route, and one additional weekly frequency will be added, but still, Taipei will be added more flights to reach daily frequencies from Kuala Lumpur and the previous existing daily flights from Kota Kinabalu (Effective March 27th, 2012).

Most routes except for Beijing and Kuala Lumpur-Tokyo-Los Angeles are operated on the Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 737-400 aircraft. Malaysia's B737-800 has room for 16 Business Class seats and 144 to 150 Economy Class seats, while their B737-400 has 16 Business Class seats and 128 Economy class seats. Their Boeing 777-200's seat 285 passengers in total, 35 in Business Class and 250 in Economy Class.

To purchase tickets visit www.malaysiaairlines.com or contact them at their call center.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.
Source: http://www.malaysiaairlines.com/us/en/corporate-info/press-room.html

Flights to Beijing-Capital are operated on the Boeing 777-200 aircraft.

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Egyptair increases frequencies between Cairo and Juba

January 9th, 2012.
Previously begun service to Juba, South Sudan by Egyptair was initially flown twice per week, then it was increased to four times per week, and it had been, 5 weekly flights betwen the two cities until the past 31st of December,now it is a daily-basis service.. The addition of more frequencies to this city comes with decent loadfactors and with the importance of adding services and making their hub in Cairo stronger.

This service has been expanded constanly to fulfill customer demand, flights that operated 5 times per week were increased to daily last 1st of January, Flights depart Cairo International Airport at 8:30 a.m. and arrive at Juba Airport at 1:45 p.m., and return flights depart Juba Airport at 2:45 p.m. and arrive at Cairo International Airport at 6:00 p.m. Passengers are able to purchase tickets redeeming Egyptair miles and Star Alliance partner miles.

Flights are operated on the Boeing 737-500 aircraft, configurated for 8 business class passengers and 96 economy class passengers. To purchase tickets contact Egyptair at their Cairo callcenter at 0900 70000 or at theri Juba office at 00249 (183) 780064 / 781428, tickets can also be purchased via the Egyptair website, egyptair.com.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.
Source: http://www.egyptair.com/English/News/Pages/NewsListing.aspx

Egyptair's B737-500 will be used for the flights.

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Hawaiian to fly to Seoul daily

January 8th, 2012.


Last December 21st, Hawaiian Airlines announced  on the eve of its first anniversary of service to Seoul, South Korea, the addition of 3 more flights per week to Seoul-Incheon, this would bring the total flights per week to daily. The new daily service would start July 16, 2012. 


Hawaiian had previously introduced service on the route on January 12, 2011. When Hawaiian adds the daily flight, they will be adding more than 40,000 new seats annually, in total Hawaiian will be providing 96,000 seats between Seoul and Honolulu. Hawaiian will still operate the Seoul-Honolulu service using its wide-body, twin-aisle Boeing 767-300ER aircraft that can accommodate 264 passengers in total, including 18 in Business Class and 246 in Economy Class. Still, Hawaiian plans on introducing its newest largest aircraft, the Airbus A330-200, which can seat 294 people, on the route at a later date.


Hawaiian's CEO, Mark Dunkerley, noted "Offering daily flights between Seoul and Honolulu has always been part of our growth plan. Demand among Korean travelers to vacation in Hawaii and for Hawaiian Airlines as a preferred carrier has been steadily building this past year and we are delighted to be expanding our service next July.”


Starting July 16, 2012 and subject to government's approval, Hawaiian's Flight # 460 will depart Seoul Incheon International Airport daily at 10:20 p.m, and arrive at Honolulu International Airport at 12:05 p.m the same day. The return Flight #459 will depart Honolulu daily at 11:45 a.m. and arrive at Incheon at 4:30 p.m the following day. (Seoul is 19 hours ahead of Honolulu; the flight crosses the International Dateline).


Tickets for this route can be purchased at www.hawaiianairlines.co.kr (Hawaiian's korean site), or www.hawaiianairlines.com (Hawaiian's english site), or you can call toll-free in the U.S. to its reservations center at 1-800-367-5320 , or to its South Korea sales office at 82-2-775-5552.


By: Ricardo Madrid A.
Source: http://investor.hawaiianairlines.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=82818&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1642124&highlight=

Hawaiian's 767-300ER aircraft have become very popular on asia/pacific routes.
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January 8th, 2012.

Korean Air to Introduce London-Gatwick

January 8th, 2012.


Last January 5th, Korean Air announced they would complement their daily service to London-Heathrow with an all-new service thrice per week to London-Gatwick, the service would make Korean Air operate routes from  Seoul-Incheon to 16 cities in 11 European Countries, and they would link Seoul and London ten times per week. 


Gatwick flight's will permit UK travellers to connect to China, Japan, and other South East Asian destinations through Korean Air's extensive Asian network. The aircraft used on this route will be the Boeing 777, which will offer 261 seats in total, including eight First Class Kosmo Sleeper seats, 28 Prestige Plus (Business) seats, and 225 Economy class seats. Korean Air announced their passengers can always expect a high level of service and can expect to find the famous Korean dish named Bibimap, Korean also stated passengers will experience the sophisticated in-flight entertainment system.


Gatwick Airport's Chief Commercial Officer, Guy stephenson said: "We are very excited to welcome Korean Air to Gatwick. South Korea remains one of Asia’s fastest growing economies and an important growth market for the UK. It is critical therefore that the UK has strong connections to this country and we are pleased that the airline has chosen to grow its London-Seoul route from Gatwick. We will work in partnership with Korean Air to help make this route a success and look forward to building a strong, long-term relationship with them.”


By: Ricardo Madrid A.
Source: http://www.koreanair.com/

Korean Air's Bibimap is an award-winning entree.

KLM's Wines ready for sale online.


January 7th, 2012.

Since the past 26th of December, you are able to purchase KLM's wines online, these are the wines served on business class on KLM Royal Dutch flights. According to KLM you "simply have to order it online via Shop@KLM and we will deliver on board your flight, or to your home". Of course they will only be delivered to you home if you live inside The Netherlands, KLM's home country.

Wines available for purchase in Shop@KLM:

• Terra Andina Altos, Carmenere-Carignan 2008, Chile.
• De Klein Schorre, Rivaner Pinot Blanc 2010, Zeeland, The Netherlands.
• Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2009, Western Cape, South Africa.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Source: http://www.klm.com/travel/pa_en/about/news_press/travel_news/buy_klm_business_class_wines_online.htm

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January 6th, 2012.

Yesterday, january 5th 2012 American Airlines announced a new codeshare agreement with another of LAN's subsidiaries, LAN Ecuador, this would benefit American Airlines from LAN Ecuador's domestic network to feed their different international services, but this would impact mostly LAN Ecuador because it would feed their domestic services.

American Airlines will codeshare with LAN Ecuador on the following routes:

1. New York JFK to Guayaquil.
2. Miami to Guayaquil.
3. Miami to Quito.
4. Guayaquil to Baltra.
5. Guayaquil to Quito.
6. Quito to Baltra.
7. Quito to Cuenca.
8. Guayaquil to San Cristobal.

While LAN Ecuador will codeshare wih AA on the following roues:

1. Miami to Guayaquil.
2. Miami to Quito.
3. Miami to New York JFK.

This agreement will further more permit LAN Ecuador's passenger to reach important u.s destinations such as Atlanta, Boston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Houston-Intercontinental, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle/Tacoma.

This agreement will also bring the possibility of AAdvantage members earning miles with the codeshare on LANPASS and the other way around. American's vice-president of strategic alliances commented on the agreement: ''By strengthening and broadening our relationship with oneworld partner LAN, we are able to offer our customers more travel options and are better positioned to deliver enhanced benefits across our respective networks''.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.

Source: http://aa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=3424

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January 6th, 2012.

American Airlines parent company AMR released details of traffic figures on the 5th of January of the present year, December traffic for 2011 was lower than that same period in 2010, figures can be observed in the following chart: (taken from aa.com)

			2011		2010		CHANGE
REVENUE PASSENGER MILES (000)
	SYSTEM		10,232,953		10,330,411		-0.9	%
		D.O.T. DOMESTIC	6,064,211		6,308,823		-3.9
		INTERNATIONAL	4,168,742		4,021,588		3.7
		ATLANTIC	1,347,171		1,286,066		4.8
		LATIN AMERICA	2,250,331		2,209,850		1.8
		PACIFIC	571,240		525,671		8.7

• AA had 97,458 more revenue passenger miles in December 2010 (-0.9 variation).
• AA had 244,612 more revenue passenger miles domestically in Dec. 2010 (-3.9 variation), mainly because of capacity cuts.
• AA had 147,154 more revenue passenger miles Internationally in Dec. 2011.
• Latin america, the pacific and atlantic passengers traffic saw an average 5.1% increase in traffic.

But still, AA managed to keep up and have more revenue passenger numbers during 2011 than 2010, as you can see in the following chart:

REVENUE PASSENGER MILES (000)
	SYSTEM		126,443,572		125,446,318		0.8	%
		D.O.T. DOMESTIC	76,254,540		77,237,597		-1.3
		INTERNATIONAL	50,189,032		48,208,721		4.1
		ATLANTIC	19,062,371		18,843,743		1.2
		LATIN AMERICA	24,235,271		23,191,425		4.5
		PACIFIC	6,891,390		6,173,554		11.6

Load factors increased by 0.1% , from 81.9% in 2010 to 82% in 2011.

In the information released by AA it is identifiable that the sector which had the most growth was clearly Latin America, which had an increased number of passengers transported and an increased load factor. American Airlines boarded 0.1% more passengers in 2010 than 2011. American Airlines transported 7 million passengers in december 2011.

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January 6th, 2012

Today, Air Berlin has released details about its plans to continue flying to the caribbean island of Curacao, to which it had begun flights in winter 2011, the flights will continue to operate, according to Paul Gregorowitsch, Chief Commercial Officer of Air Berlin because ''The new long-haul connection between Dusseldorf and Curaçao has developed very well during winter season, so based on demand we are going to continue operating it on our summer schedule. Departure times are ideal for transfer passengers, or those who arrive by other means of transport - from the Netherlands, for example - so we can assume that, in summer, there will also be many guests from Germany and other countries in Europe who will choose to fly to Curaçao with airberlin".


Flights to Curacao with Air Berlin can be as cheap as € 269 one-way, inclusive of all taxes and charges and including topbonus miles; they can be booked on the Internet (airberlin.com), through the company’s Service Centre (phone: 01805 - 737 800; 0.14 €/Min. from a German landline; mobile phone charges in Germany €0.42/min.) or at travel agencies. 


Flights are operated on the Airbus Industrie A330-200, with capacity for 24 business class and 279 economy class seats.


Curacao is a very attractive destination for Europeans as it houses some of the most popular beaches as Cas Abao, Mambo Beach, PortoMari, Westpunt and some others, and it also has some of the best clubs like Saint Tropez Oceanclub Curacao, which offers free wi-fi, swimming pools, a beautiful sea view and different kind of foods, all for 5 dollars aprox. (9 fl). Flights are also expected to have good load factors because of the multiple flights Air Berlin has to dusseldorf, specially during summer and winter season.

By: Ricardo Madrid A.


Sources: http://www.airberlin.com/site/pressreleases_dr.php?LANG=eng&ID=4081

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January 6th, 2012

As confirmed by the colombian flag-carrier, it will begin operations from its main hub in Bogota to Florencia in the colombian region of Caqueta, flights will begin this upcoming January 23rd, flights will be flown using Fokker 50 aircraft.The news surely come along with the airline's 2012 expansion plans and surely they are looking to assure a working regional and domestic network to feed up the airline's services to Europe, South America and North America.

Flights will be operated daily, leaving Bogota to Florencia at 2:50 p.m and arriving at Florencia at 4:15 p.m, return flights will depart Florencia at 4:35 p.m and arrive at Eldorado International Airport at 5:55 p.m.

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January 5th, 2012

TAM Expands Star Alliance Relationship
Popular Grupo TAM of brazil, has launched a new codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines, the turkish flag-carrier, this agreement marks another milestone since there where speculations about TAM leaving Star to be with LAN in OneWorld, but the only thing this agreement does is severing ties with star alliance.

The agreement (according to TAM) at first will place TAM's code on flights to Istanbul via Madrid and London with Turkish' flights from Madrid and London Heathrow to Istanbul-Ataturk and TAM's services from Brazil to Madrid Barajas and London Heathrow.

While for Turkish Airlines their codes will be put on TAM flights from Brasilia, Foz do Iguacu, Porto Alegre, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires.

The decision to codeshare with Turkish surely comes with an increasing traffic between Brazil and Turkey, one of Europe's most popular destinations for leisure travel and also for growing business'. While the agreement also surely has to be with complementing Turkish Airlines' services to Sao Paulo and TAM's services to Madrid and London Heathrow.

The aviation world will wait and see what this means for the regulators need of LATAM choosing a single alliance, the question remains, Oneworld or Star Alliance?.