BAA, the owner of Britain's three biggest airports, is not planning to sell any airports and has not decided on any job cuts, the firm said on Thursday after a newspaper said it was planning 2,000 job cuts.
However, BAA, the airport unit of Spanish infrastructure and construction firm Ferrovial, said it was undertaking a review of back-office functions, which did not involve security or customer service staff at its airports.
"No conclusions have yet been reached, and the review is ongoing," BAA said.
The Times newspaper reported on Thursday that BAA, whose airports include London's Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted, was looking to cut up to 2,000 jobs and may be preparing to sell one or more of its airports.
"Ferrovial have a huge debt burden, and they can't sustain that," The Times quoted a BAA source as saying. "They are really drilling down costs, and there is going to be a complete restructuring of the business, with a couple of thousand of jobs going. It cannot be the security staff, but every other element of the business is up for review."
Stephen Nelson, CEO of BAA, hit back on Thursday, calling the report exaggerated and misleading.
"No decisions have been taken around the loss of support jobs, and we do not recognize the specific number used by The Times," he said.
Ferrovial declined to comment on the matter on Thursday.
BAA has come under criticism for delays and ageing infrastructure at Heathrow and Gatwick. The British airport operator was bought by Ferrovial in a GBP10.1 billion pound (USD$20.4 billion), debt-fueled takeover last year. (Reuters)
August 30, 2007
BAA Says No Airport Sale Plans
Young management trainees run Gulf Air for a day
Young Bahraini management trainees will be given an opportunity of a lifetime by Gulf Air, allowing them to run the airline for a day. “The key ingredient for a successful organization is its people and these young Bahrainis are going to be the leaders who will fly Gulf Air into a promising future,” says Acting President and Chief Executive Bjorn Naf.
“Aviation is a very complex business and there is nothing better than letting them experience what it’s like being a CEO for a day for their national carrier so they can experience what its like to lead in such a challenging work environment,” says Mr. Naf, who devised the idea.
As part of the deal, young management trainees will spend a full day with the CEO of the company, including shadowing him at meetings with senior management and staff.
The move is part of Gulf Air’s commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment in which these individuals are recruited, trained and empowered to take up positions of leadership in the airline while fulfilling their personal aspirations.
The management trainees are part of Gulf Air’s 24-month Graduate Entry Management programme, which rotates young graduates through the business giving them an insight into complexity of the aviation industry. During this period, they are exposed and trained to acquire functional and management skills through performance management and formal training intervention. On completion, graduates are placed in junior management roles as the first step on a structured career track.
Norwegian to purchase great number of next-generation
42 new Boeing 737-800 airplanes have been ordered by Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA with Blended Winglets as the carrier revealed. The airplanes have a list price of USD 3.1 billion or just over NOK 18 billion. Parallel to this, Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA has ensured purchase rights for an additional 42 airplanes of the same model from Boeing. These cost-efficient airplanes with leading-edge technology are significantly more environment-friendly than the existing airfleet.
This is the largest order in Europe received by Boeing for the company’s 737 series thus far in 2007. The new airplanes will supplement the 11 Boeing 737-800 airplanes Norwegian ordered from Boeing in May this year. The Boeing 737-800 model is a next-generation airplane, with a reduction in fuel consumption up to 33 per cent and reduction in NOx up to 43 per cent, compared with the oldest airplanes in Norwegian’s current airplanes fleet. The 737-800 has 189 seats, while the current 737-300 has 148 seats.
“The new airplanes will strengthen Norwegian’s competitive position in the Norwegian, Nordic and European aviation markets. Also, the airplanes are significantly more environment-friendly than the ones we use today. These airplanes will reduce Norwegian’s CO2 emissions and bring down fuel costs, while noise levels are considerably lower than for other airplanes,” says Bjorn Kjos, CEO of Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA.
“We have explored different ways of financing, hereunder US ex-im financing of 85 per cent of the purchase price. These purchases will open up new opportunities, enabling us to fly longer distances and thus consider new, interesting routes,” says Bjorn Kjos, adding that the purchases will ensure greater flexibility when phasing out older airplanes and adapting to market trends.
The 42 airplanes will be delivered over a five-year period from 2009 through 2014, with around 10 airplanes each year. The company has entered into hedging agreements to cover a large part of the NOK/USD exposure in connection with the purchases.
August 29, 2007
Air China Open To Mergers With Rival Carriers
Air China, now the world's most valuable carrier, will consider the option of merging with other Chinese airlines, including China Southern Airlines, if the opportunity arises.
Air China is examining a possible restructuring of the sector as competition from foreign airlines and newly arisen local carriers is growing following the opening of China's civil aviation market, President Cai Jianjiang told reporters.
"Air China will not exclude the possibility of a group restructuring with sister companies, including China Southern," Cai said, responding to market speculation that the airline would merge with China Southern.
Beijing is restructuring state-owned companies and the number of central government-controlled firms will fall sharply in coming years as they adapt to market changes and fend off competition, he added.
Air China's rivals include Shanghai Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines and Hainan Airlines.
The airline reported late on Tuesday a more than three-fold surge in first-half net profit to CNY1.57 billion yuan on strong demand and an CNY868 million foreign exchange gain on the appreciation of the yuan during the reported period.
Shares of Air China fell 4 percent on Wednesday but have gained 98 percent this year, beating a 29 percent gain on the index of Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong in the same period.
According to an IATA electronic-ticketing implementation status report issued 13 August 2007, Singapore Airlines is ranked first outside of the US region, and third in the overall industry, in terms of interline e-ticketing implementation.
Singapore Airlines customers whose journeys involve connections with any of the Airline’s 84 airline e-ticketing partners require only a single interline electronic-ticket.
The Airline expects to implement interline e-ticketing facility with all STAR Alliance partner carriers by October 2007 and plans to conclude interline e-ticketing arrangements with all 155 interline partners by end of 2007.
Mr Huang Cheng Eng, Singapore Airlines Executive Vice-President, Marketing and the Regions said, “Singapore Airlines is a front-runner in adopting technology in our business model, and we have embraced e-ticketing as a means to simplify air travel for our customers.”
“With more than 95 percent of our interline traffic enabled on the e-ticketing platform, customers can now enjoy the convenience of using just one interline e-ticket to connect from our flights to our partner carriers.”
With e-tickets, travel itinerary and passenger information are maintained electronically in the airlines’ reservations systems. As a result, any amendments to bookings can be made easily and customers do not have to worry about misplaced paper tickets.
The Airline targets complete issuing of e-tickets by end-2007; ahead of the IATA guideline of end-May 2008. Currently, e-tickets make up more than 90 per cent of Singapore Airlines tickets issued in countries such as Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and the UK.
The interline e-ticket arrangement is available online at Singapore Airlines` website and at all Singapore Airlines sales offices in cities where e-ticketing is available. They are also available at selected travel agencies.
Singapore aims for new record in visitor numbers
Officials from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have revealed their plans to build on the impressive number of Middle East tourists visiting the South East Asian nation. The region has made an important contribution to Singapore’s record-breaking tourism performance so far in 2007, with 4.9 million visitor arrivals recorded from January to June. Total visitor arrivals from the Middle East have grown 23 percent year-on-year, with key markets like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait all showing high double-digit growth.
Plans are in place to continue this strong performance throughout 2007 and into 2008, with a particular focus on attracting visitors to cultural and religious festivals like Hari Raya Puasa or Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which celebrates the end of Ramadan.
Other upcoming highlights include the inaugural flight of the double-decker A380, the world`s largest passenger plane, on October 25 this year. Singapore is hoping to attract Middle East-based aviation enthusiasts to be among the ‘first to fly’ the pioneering aircraft.
An online auction for seats on the first commercial flight of the super jumbo Airbus A380, between Singapore and Sydney, started this week, with proceeds going to a number of charities. “We have a packed series of events lined up for 2007 and 2008, and our research demonstrates how receptive Middle East travellers are to the message that Singapore has something to offer for everyone,” said Siew-Kheng Kang, Regional Director, South Asia, Middle East & Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
“The Middle East region is a priority market for Singapore, particularly given our deepening bonds with countries in this area,” she added.
Research carried out for Singapore by global agency Millward Brown shows that Singapore – along with Malaysia, India and Dubai – is the in the top four destinations for Middle East residents considering future travel options.
The study, which surveyed over 400 residents in the region, revealed that a key perception of the destination was that it had “strong word of mouth” and a good variety of attractions. “One of the main reasons why Singapore is very popular among Middle East travellers is because the city offers an unforgettable experience to every type of visitor, whether they come as a family, with friends, or on business,” Kang added.
Singapore is also planning ahead to 2008 for the first F1 Singapore Grand Prix, which will bring thousands of motor-sport enthusiasts to the Lion City. It will be the first night race on the F1 circuit. The date of the first F1 Singapore Grand Prix has been set for 28 September 2008.
Qantas introduces bigger planes and more services to the West
Qantas would move to an all wide-body, twin-aisle aircraft on all of its services from Perth to Sydney and Melbourne within the next two years as the carrier announced. Qantas Executive General Manager John Borghetti said the move, which would see Airbus A330 and Boeing 767 aircraft exclusively used on these services, would provide more than 61,000 seats - an increase of more than 11,700 seats on these routes.
"This decision is a sign of our commitment to Western Australia, which is one of the biggest growth markets in Australia," Mr Borghetti said.
"We believe our all wide-body service on these key trans-continental business routes will ensure Qantas is offering the capacity, frequency, and comfort appropriate for the market," he said.
Mr Borghetti said Qantas was equally committed to intrastate markets, with 5,000 additional seats coming on line by June 2008.
"In the year ahead, we will continue to grow capacity within the state, operating larger aircraft and increasing frequencies," Mr Borghetti said.
He said that from June 2008, Qantas and QantasLink would add:
- five additional B737 services a week between Perth and Karratha;
- five new B737 services a week between Perth and Port Hedland, replacing the current B717 services;
- three additional B717 services a week between Perth and Broome;
- two additional B717 services a week between Perth and Newman.
Mr Borghetti said Qantas was also making changes to its international services out of Perth.
"We will introduce Airbus A330 services between Perth and Hong Kong from January 2008, replacing the current B767s operating on the route and providing customers with Skybed in Business Class and our Audio Visual on Demand (AVOD) inflight entertainment system in both Business and Economy class cabins," he said.
Mr Borghetti said the international B767 fleet currently operating these services would be deployed on domestic Perth services.
He said Qantas` $50 million development at Perth Airport, announced last week, would improve the airport experience for Qantas passengers as the airline continued to grow its Western Australia services.
"The airport development, which will commence by the end of 2007, will be a two year project and ensure we have better facilities for passengers, aircraft and baggage for our current operations as well as meeting the growth demand of the future."
In Western Australia, The Qantas Group currently operates: 47 return services per week to Melbourne, 37 return services per week to Sydney from Perth; seven return Perth-Melbourne (Avalon) services operated by Jetstar, and 109 return services weekly to Karratha, Port Hedland, Paraburdoo, Newman, Broome and Kalgoorlie by QantasLink and Qantas.
Airline executives predict more fees for services
Today’s consumers might be reminded of inflight turbulence when contemplating the fees they might be asked to pay in the future for assigned seats, checked baggage, and paying by credit card. Most airlines currently don’t charge extra for these benefits. But survey results by IdeaWorks suggest airline executives will charge for these, and other services, in the future. While frequent travelers may consider extra fees a major annoyance, airline executives call these fees ancillary revenue.
How far has this practice spread among airlines? What new fees are airline executives planning for the future? To answer these questions, IdeaWorks surveyed airline executives all over the globe. Here is a sampling of observations from the analysis:
- 63% of airline executives predict unbundling (charging for amenities) is becoming more prevalent.
- 39% indicate their airlines now sell meals and sandwiches on board aircraft.
- 80% indicate fees are currently charged for call center bookings or are anticipated to be charged in the future.
Click here to view the report.
Egypt to place more regions on its tourism map
Known for being candid about issues tackling tourism, Egypt`s Tourism Minister Zuhair Garranah, has expressed concern about Taba and Nuweiba- two Sinai Peninsula tourist regions with a potentially high levels of tourism levels.
Garranah has given the Egyptian Tourism Federation (ETF) full responsibility for compiling a full Strategic Market Planning Report in order to turn the two areas into Economic or Investment Regions, which are expected to boost the nation`s tourism income.
Following this, ETF Chairman Ahmed El-Nahas, Board Member Alaa Hafez, Director General Ayman Altaranissi, and Chairman`s Executive Consultant Ahmed Yousri, met with Dr. Samir Makari, Economic Consultant to the ETF, to highlight main focal points in order to post the Strategic Market Planning Report within the coming weeks.
Makari had compiled a similar such economic report in 2005. Highly successful, it was presented to the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), headed by Minster of Investment Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin.
August 28, 2007
Kuwait Air Scraps USD$3 Bln Aircraft Order
Kuwait Airways has scrapped a USD$3 billion deal to buy 19 planes from Aviation Lease and Finance Co (Alafco) after the government refused to approve the loss-making state carrier's plan, Alafco said on Tuesday.
Kuwait Airways said it would buy 12 Boeing 787s and seven single-aisle Airbus A320 aircraft under an initial agreement signed in June. Subject to government approval, the aircraft would be delivered between 2009 and 2014.
"The letter of intent signed with Kuwait Airways for the supply of 19 aircraft is considered cancelled," Alafco said in a statement.
"Alafco received a letter from Kuwait Airways saying it has not obtained the necessary government approval to sign a final deal with Alafco," it added.
Kuwait Airways officials said in June the order would be worth around USD$3 billion and that the airline placed the order with Alafco rather then manufacturers because it wanted to get them earlier.
ALAFCO, majority owned by Islamic bank Kuwait Finance House, ordered 12 Boeing 787s and six 737-800s in March valued at USD$2.26 billion at list prices. In November, it ordered six Airbus A320s. (Reuters)
IATA Sees End Of Paper Tickets In 2008
The global airlines body IATA said on Monday it had placed its last order for paper tickets, clearing the way for air travel to be based entirely on electronic ticketing from June 1 next year.
"In just 278 more days, the paper ticket will become a collector's item," said Giovanni Bisignani, director general of the International Air Transport Association.
The changeover from paper would not only cut airlines' costs by USD$9 for every traveller but would also mean the industry - criticized by environmentalists for its part in global warming - would save 50,000 mature trees a year, he added.
Bisignani did not say whether the USD$9 in cost savings would or should be passed on to passengers.
Based in Geneva, IATA represents more than 240 airlines which operate 94 percent of scheduled international flights.
Non-IATA airlines, mainly low-cost carriers such as Ireland's Ryanair and Britain's easyJet, already have a paper-free ticket system where travelers are registered in computers and present only an identity document at check-in.
IATA launched its drive for so called "e-ticketing" just over three years ago and now 84 percent of travelers on IATA carriers fly without paper tickets.
The airlines body says China, one of the fastest-growing markets for air travel and host to next year's Olympic Games, is heading to be the first country in the world to operate an entirely paper-free ticketing system by the end of this year. (Reuters)
China Eastern, Singapore Air Deal Approved
China Eastern Airlines has won Chinese government approval to sell a stake to Singapore Airlines, two sources familiar with the situation said on Monday.
"The government has in principle given the go-ahead to the China Eastern and Singapore Air deal. The two sides will sign an agreement over the weekend," one source close to the talks between the two companies said.
A second source confirmed that China Eastern had won approval for the long-expected tie-up, adding the Chinese carrier's shares, which have been suspended from trading since May 23, would resume trading next month.
The deal would be the first acquisition of a large stake in one of the big three Chinese airlines by a foreign carrier.
Neither source provided details of the deal.
China Eastern chairman Li Fenghua said in June that China Eastern planned to sell Hong Kong-listed H shares, equivalent to a nearly 25 percent stake, to Singapore Airlines and its majority owner Temasek.
Chinese media reports have valued the deal at roughly USD$1 billion.
China Eastern and Singapore Airlines declined to comment.
Industry analysts say the tie-up could give China Eastern financial backing and access to its partner's extensive global network, while Singapore Airlines could expand its foothold in the fast-growing China market.
Li said in June that China Eastern expected to return to the black for the first half of this year, helped by strong traffic growth and new accounting rules, after posting a year-earlier net loss of CNY1.46 billion yuan (USD$193 million).
(Reuters)
Cargo Plane Crashes In Congo, 13 Killed
An Antonov plane carrying tin ore crashed and burst into flames shortly after takeoff in eastern Congo on Sunday, killing 13 people on board, but a young man and a baby boy survived, officials and residents said.
The Russian pilot tried to return to Kongolo in Congo's mineral-rich Katanga province after developing engine problems, but the plane crashed short of the runway, Jean-Claude Kapange, the local head of the Interior Ministry's national information agency said.
The pilot and two more Russian crew were among the dead, Kapange said.
He said the plane had been on its way to Goma, the main city in North Kivu province, with around 9 tonnes of cassiterite (tin oxide) and other minerals. Goma is a transit point for many mineral exports from eastern Congo.
"A small child and another passenger in his 20s were rescued before the plane caught fire," Faustin Lwamba, a resident of Kongolo who helped in the rescue said, adding that both were being treated in a local hospital.
He said a search was continuing in the forest to locate the bodies of the pilot and a woman.
Congo's mineral riches were a catalyst in the country's devastating 1998-2003 war, which drew in half a dozen African armies and spawned a host of local rebel groups and ethnic militias, some of whom still terrorize villagers in the east.
Campaigners say mining for cassiterite and other valuable minerals exploits desperately poor local people who work in treacherous mines for low pay and can fuel instability and violence as businessmen and militias vie for control of resources and revenues.
Mineral flights have also sparked safety concerns.
Local authorities suspended cassiterite flights to Goma from another mining area in North Kivu, Walikale, in June due to safety concerns for the planes, which land and take off on a stretch of road while a proper air strip is being built.
Air travel is notoriously dangerous in Africa, where large swathes of airspace are not covered by radar and aging planes suffer from lack of maintenance and spare parts.
The continent accounted for 18.5 percent of fatal airliner accidents last year, despite having only 3 percent of global flight departures, according to the Dutch-based Aviation Safety Network.
(Reuters)
ARINC launches new solution for airlines` on-board sales
ARINC, working with Abanco, announced the on-board sales management and inventory tracking solution for airlines. According to ARINC, the full-service wireless sales solution promises to reduce airline service costs and paperwork while cutting inventory losses—a big headache for carriers.
ARINC and Abanco will demonstrate the new sales system September 8-10 at IFSA 2007, the International Flight Services Association Exposition in Houston, Texas.
“This is the first comprehensive Buy-on-Board solution ever offered,” stated Andrew Kemmetmueller, ARINC’s Service Director. “At major airlines, sales inventory losses can reach $10 million or more a year. Our solution streamlines the on-board sales process by fully addressing both the logistical and inventory problems involved.”
“Airlines will discover new potential for all types of passenger sales—from duty-free items, to onboard catalog companies and other vendors,” stated Abanco President Tracy Metzger. “This sales system has endless possibilities for airlines throughout the world.”
The system uses the new ARINC Mobile Communications Gateway (MCG) to support on-board sales and credit card transactions. It provides wireless connectivity and power to recharge in-flight electronic devices, and may be used for other airline data delivery applications as well.
The MCG system uses secure wireless connectivity to report detailed sales data and upload new inventory data after each flight. As part of a turnkey solution, ARINC will offer technical support, management and maintenance of the MCG at airports through its wholly-owned airport IT services subsidiary, ARINC Managed Services, LLC.
The International Flight Services Association (IFSA) 2007 Conference and Exhibition is scheduled September 8-10 at the Hilton Americas-Houston, in Houston, Texas.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Monday, August 27, 2007
Royal Bengal Airline signs contract with BIS
Bird Information Systems (BIS), technology provider of automated aviation and travel related software solutions, announced another strategic partnership with Royal Bengal Airline, for the use of its Airline Inventory and Reservations System (AIRS).
Mohammed Shalim Rahman, Managing Director of Royal Bengal Airline and Mr. Ankur Bhatia, Executive Director, Bird Information Systems signed the contract.
Under the terms of this contract signed between the two companies, Bird Information Systems will provide the booking technology for the Airlines’ Inventory Hosting, Reservation at City & Airport Offices and Internet Booking Engine. Besides, for Airport operations, a departure control system would be in use by the airline.
Ankur Bhatia, Executive Director, Bird Information Systems mentioned, “We always emphasize on service and use of technology to ensure complete customer satisfaction. This strategic partnership gives us yet another opportunity to empower the new breed airlines of the Indian subcontinent with the latest technology solutions, enhancing their overall efficiency.”
Expressing his excitement on the partnership, Mohammed Shalim Rahman, Managing Director, Royal Bengal Airline stated, “We are delighted to have an online booking reservation system that will give opportunity to passengers in Bangladesh for the first time to book their tickets online. We will encourage online bookings by offering cheap fares and discounts exclusively for online customers and frequent flyers.”
Vicky Karantzavelou - Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Avian Influenza: Highly pathogenic H5N1 virus confirmed in Bavaria
The European Commission was informed by the German authorities on Saturday (25 August) of an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza on a duck farm in Bavaria, in a region where infected wild birds were detected in July and early August.
Upon suspicion of the virus, the German authorities immediately applied the necessary control measures laid down under EU legislation, and the Commission will adopt a Decision later today to confirm the risk areas set up around the outbreak.
Avian influenza was suspected on the Bavarian farm when an abnormally high mortality rate was reported in a flock of almost 170 000 ducks. Diagnostic tests carried out by Germany’s national laboratory confirmed the virus to be the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain. The German authorities immediately began culling the ducks on the holding and applied the measures laid down in the Avian Influenza Directive 2005/94/EC. This entails the establishment of a protection zone of 3 km radius and a surveillance zone of 10 km around the infected holding.
The area covered by the protection zone and the surveillance zone is classified as a high risk area (area A) which is surrounded by a low risk area (area B) acting as a buffer zone to the disease free parts of the country. Strict movement controls are in place, poultry must be kept indoors, gatherings of poultry and other birds are banned, and on-farm bio security measures will be strengthened. The Commission will adopt a Decision today confirming the A and B areas set up in Germany and the disease situation will be reviewed by the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health in early September.
Michael Verikios - Tuesday, August 28, 2007
ASTA and ATA working together again
ASTA and the Africa Travel Association (ATA) have again joined forces in 2007. As a result of the agreement, ATA has become an official supporter of THETRADESHOW in 2007 and ASTA’s International Destination Expo in 2008, which will be held in Lyon, France, April 12-16.
"We are excited to have ATA as a supporter for THETRADESHOW because it will allow exhibitors as well as attendees to broaden their areas of expertise and knowledge," said William A. Maloney, CTC, ASTA executive vice president and COO. "We hope that the participation of ATA will open doors for our members as well as for ATA members and that the partnership will go further than ASTA. Having ATA at THETRADESHOW and International Destination Expo will raise awareness and start communication about travel and tourism developments in Africa as well as bring more international members and agents with more diverse expertise into the ASTA community."
ATA is a non-profit association of tourism professionals from government, industry, tour operators, travel agencies and media and has been the principal international travel association to promote tourism in and to Africa since 1975. In partnering with ASTA, ATA will be a prominent participant of THETRADESHOW with multiple vendors from Africa present, and will campaign African agents to attend the show so that myriad experience and expertise will be available for all attendees. THETRADESHOW will give travel agents and suppliers from around the world a unique chance to meet in a central location. In addition, ATA members will receive an ASTA member rate for attending ASTA’s International Destination Expo in 2008.
"ATA and ASTA have reinvigorated their relationship," said Edward Bergman, ATA executive director. "Under the new arrangement ATA and ASTA will be taking on more marketing initiatives and developing an objective purposeful relationship, one that should promote the front-line travel agency concept and sustainable worldwide tourism development, plus provide direct access to Africa destination product knowledge and information for ASTA membership. ATA is pleased to join our travel industry colleagues and associations in partnering with THETRADESHOW and promoting the exciting and diverse tourism product that the African continent has to offer."
Theodore Koumelis - Tuesday, August 28, 2007
August 25, 2007
US Sikhs angry over turban plan
Until now turbans have been searched or removed only to resolve an unexplained alarm from an airport metal detector.
But now security will have greater discretion to inspect turbans so that they can be manually checked for objects such as non-metallic weapons.
However Sikh groups have responded to the new measures by describing them as outrageous and discriminatory.
Sikh men wear turbans to cover their hair, which they leave uncut in accordance with their religion.
Organisations representing Sikhs have only recently completed a publicity campaign to explain the significance of the kirpan, or religious sword, to security officials.
The Transportation Security Administration insisted the new policy was necessary to counter the threat of improvised bombs and chemical weapons.
In Britain, the government said recently that private searches of turbans might be necessary as part of airport security.(BBC News)
August 23, 2007
Aeroflot To Buy Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s
AirAsia In Talks For More A320s
AirAsia, one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, has 150 firm orders for the single-aisle A320s and options on another 50.
UB Group Plans US Flights In 2008
UB filed applications with U.S authorities two weeks ago for flights from India's IT hub of Bangalore to New York and San Francisco, he said.
India only permits airlines that have been operational for at least five years to fly overseas. Private airline operators have been lobbying for that rule to be relaxed as the domestic market gets increasingly crowded and competitive.
"Air Deccan will be five years old in 2008. If norms for flying abroad are not relaxed, we will fly Air Deccan," Mallya told reporters on the sidelines of a business conference.
UB (Holdings) owns 83 percent in two-year-old Kingfisher. It bought 26 percent in budget carrier Deccan Aviation in May and has made an open offer to buy a further 20 percent.
The offer was delayed after India's capital market regulator earlier this month raised queries on the funding for the offer.
Mallya said funds were already in place to cover the offer.
Deccan's managing director, G.R. Gopinath, said the firm hoped to start making a profit from the first quarter of the financial year 2008/09.
Kingfisher and Deccan, which together have more than 30 percent of the domestic market, compete with state-run Air India and private airlines including Jet Airways, SpiceJet, GoAir and IndiGo. (Reuters)
First A380 flight on 25-26 October
- An eBay user ID ... it`s free and easy to get
- The names and passport numbers of those travelling
- For bids on packages in the premium classes (Business & Suites), or bids over USD1,000 in Economy Class, pre-qualification will be required. This ensures bids are not artificially inflated, and gives bidders confidence they are bidding only against genuine and pre-qualified bidders
Prequalification is initiated online. Singapore Airlines` global auction management agency, Auctionwire, has developed numerous ways for bidders to pre-qualify and lodge security deposits for bids requiring pre-qualification.
All information on packages available, bid prequalification and how to get an eBay user ID is available on the Singapore Airlines website, singaporeair.com/a380.
100% of the proceeds of the auction will be donated to charities. They are:
- One-third to Singapore`s Community Chest
- One-third split between the Sydney Children`s Hospital, Randwick, and The Children's Hospital at Westmead, both in Sydney
- One-third to Medecins Sans Frontieres, also known as Doctors Without Borders.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Monday, August 20, 2007
No passengers injured from China Airlines` flight CI 120
China Airlines announced that Flight CI 120 from Taipei to Okinawa caught fire during taxi operations at Okinawa Airport, but stressed that all passengers were safe.The Boeing 737-800 aircraft was carrying eight business class and 147 economy class passengers. All 155 passengers and two infants, plus eight crew members, were safe.
Michael Verikios - Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Emirates and Airbus conclude tests
During its week-long Dubai visit, marking one of the longest customer trials for Airbus, the aircraft, MSN 007, was the centrepiece of numerous compatibility tests including taxiway, runway and ground support equipment tests, as well as docking trials at the terminal gate and in the state-of-the-art Emirates Engineering Centre.
Seeking to familiarise its staff with the world`s largest commercial passenger aircraft, Emirates, jointly with Airbus, conducted four test flights that brought into play all key units of the airline such as Airport Services, Inflight Catering, Cabin Crew, Flight Operations, Cargo, Inflight Systems, Engineering and Maintenance, Group Security, and Dnata Airport Operations.
From the time the test campaign was conceived, Emirates was clear - tests must be as real as possible and conducted under typical airline conditions. Two of the test flights were operated in the morning when Dubai International Airport was at its busiest, followed by two flights later in the afternoon. The flights, each two hours in duration and flown over the UAE, were operated at almost 80 percent load factor - the average seat factor experienced by the Dubai-based airline.
Even with 40 percent more passengers on average per flight, the A380`s turnaround time between each of the two test flights on 17th and 18th August was fixed at 90 minutes. Boarding of passengers, comprising mostly airline staff, was conducted via double-decker aerobridges as well as off stand through buses on tarmac.
The hot weather operability tests culminated with the smooth docking of the A380 at Hangar C in Emirates Engineering Centre later in the week. The dock fabricated and commissioned by UAE-based Excel Industries will allow full access to all areas of the aircraft for heavy maintenance, while at the same time ensure a safe, stable and efficient working environment up to 24 metres above ground level.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates` Executive Vice President, Engineering and Operations said: "Emirates is delighted at the successful completion of a long and comprehensive test campaign with Airbus. Emirates` staff, drawn from various operational departments, were able to familiarise themselves with the aircraft, ahead of its entry into the airline?s fleet."
"Our staff from all corners of the world including Australia, Bahrain, the United Kingdom, Korea and Mauritius arrived into Dubai to volunteer as passengers for the test flights, bearing testimony to the campaign's overwhelming response. It was an extremely gratifying moment when the first flight lifted off the runway amidst a ripple of applause, both from the onboard passengers and from ground staff on the tarmac."
Al Redha added: "Emirates has worked closely with Airbus in the design and development of the A380, as the airframe moved from concept to the drawing board and on to the production line. We will continue to work together to test the aircraft's systems between now and August 2008 when Emirates is expected to take delivery of its first A380."
Emirates has ordered 55 A380s. With forecasts indicating a doubling of air traffic in the next 15 years, and a corresponding increase in flight frequencies not being an option on many routes due to slot constraints, the A380 - the world`s largest aircraft - is aptly designed for world growth, while at the same time minimizing impact on the environment.
Viva Macau granted approval for Sydney service
Con Korfiatis, Viva Macau’s Chief Executive is grateful for the understanding of all affected passengers who were scheduled to fly with the airline on August 15 -16, August 18 -19, and August 20 -21, 2007.
All affected passengers were re-accommodated with either alternative flight arrangements on a similar schedule provided, a full refund or re-booked on a future Viva Macau flight. A free return ticket to any of Viva Macau’s scheduled destinations was also offered to each passenger, redeemable within twelve months.
“Last week’s postponement was unexpected and outside Viva Macau’s control, but with our reacting immediately and offering of all possible travel alternatives to our customers, the customer’s feedback and understanding have been very positive and encouraging,” Korfiatis said.
In addition, Korfiatis also expressed his thanks to CASA in granting the approval.
“We greatly appreciate the support we have been given by CASA during the process of approval. Viva Macau is pleased to be able to take off for Sydney,” Korfiatis said.
With the commencement of the service, Viva Macau is Macau’s first airline offering transcontinental route which marks a significant milestone in Macau’s aviation.
Viva Macau’s inaugural flight closely coincides with the opening of the world’s largest integrated resort next Tuesday. Korfiatis added that Viva Macau is confident in bringing in a significant amount of new tourists from Australia to Macau, Asia’s Las Vegas.
“The world is very excited about the vibrant development of Macau. With Macau’s mixed cultural charisma, uniquely rich historical background and heritage, convenient accessibility to Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta, on top of all these new leisure, entertainment, MICE facilities being developed, Viva Macau will continue to contribute in boosting Macau’s tourism,” Korfiatis said.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Thursday, August 23, 2007
August 19, 2007
ARINC introduces portable wireless connection for airlines
The ARINC MCG provides wireless connectivity and a recharging power source for in-flight electronic devices, allowing airline crews to download sales data wirelessly after a flight. It is the first on-board solution to offer this capability.
ARINC plans soon to announce flight trials of the MCG system with cooperating airlines that use the popular AbancoTM In-Flight payment solution.
ARINC and Abanco signed a marketing and reseller agreement last month.“The ARINC Mobile Communications Gateway is a revolution in connectivity for airlines," states Rolf Stefani, Senior Director of the ARINC Technology Innovation Center. "It brings an affordable and portable solution to the airplane that can be used for many different purposes."
By adopting the MCG system for wireless downloading, airlines can eliminate the need for crews to remove point-of-sale devices from the aircraft after each flight. The MCG supports wireless data downloading by several devices simultaneously in a single session. Airline crews can leave point-of-sale devices on board the plane, recharge them with the MCG power source, and receive wireless inventory uploads over the MCG as well.
“By introducing the MCG our goal was to streamline the on-board sales and data reporting process,” states Andrew Kemmetmueller, ARINC Service Director. “The MCG promises to reduce labor cost and inventory loss significantly. We also find it can reduce costs and provide new functionality in other airline operations as well.” Specifically designed for commercial airline operations, the MCG unit may be left permanently on board a commercial aircraft. It does not rely on airport infrastructure, and airlines can adopt the MCG for use even at airports without Wi-Fi service. Several airlines have suggested new ways to apply MCG technology, and ARINC expects to announce other possible applications of the device in airline operations in the near future.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Thursday, August 16, 2007
New medical intelligence system will help identify public health threats
Traditional surveillance systems monitor death rates, the utilisation of health services (e.g. emergency room admissions, drug prescriptions), abnormal patterns, changing laboratory characteristics and exposure to risks related to the environment, food or animals. Yet, certain public or animal health threats may go unnoticed but can be reported in the local press or by other less known sources. The challenge is how to find them.
Theodore Koumelis - Friday, August 17, 2007
Bermuda's Tourism Minister to speak at second WTMS
Registration for ITB Asia starts
ITB Asia offers a highly attractive product for small and medium-sized companies of the Asian travel industry. Provided they are not state-owned or part of a franchise, companies with up to 50 employees can present their innovative products and services at special rates.
In addition to traditional travel products, ITB Asia will also focus on the rapidly expanding areas of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events) as well as business travel. International exhibitors from all parts of the value-added chain will be represented at ITB Asia, including the main destinations of all continents, international tour operators, airlines and hotels, as well as online and other reservation systems. This presentation of the entire spectrum of the global travel industry at ITB Asia will enable buyers from Asia to search for new products in order to market them throughout Asia and the world, as well as assisting international sellers to expand into new markets.
One of the main features of ITB Asia will be the conference taking place at the same time. Based on the successful ITB Berlin Convention “Market, Trends & Innovations”, which has now evolved into the largest event of its kind in Europe, the ITB Asia Convention is also tailored to meet the needs of the new generation of Asian travel entrepreneurs.
Dr. Martin Buck, Vice President CompetenceCenter Travel & Logistics of Messe Berlin: “Asia is already the continent that is driving the global economy. For many Asian countries, tourism is not only an important industry but, as a result of the growing economies of these regions, it is enabling growing numbers of people from Asia to travel, not only within Asia, but also to other parts of the world. With our expertise of over forty years of ITB Berlin, and together with Singapore as the ideal venue for buyers from all over Asia, we believe that ITB Asia will provide a market place for the travel industry of the future, which accurately reflects the importance of this continent both as a destination and as a source of tourists.”
Michael Verikios - Friday, August 17, 2007
A380 world tour Ccontinues with major airports in Asia and US
The International Airports to be visited are:
- Thailand Bangkok / Chiang Mai: 31st August – 2nd September
- Vietnam Hanoi: 2nd – 3rd September
- China Hongkong (Asian Aerospace): 3rd – 5th September
- Korea Seoul: 5th – 7th September
The US-tour will take the A380 flight-test-aircraft MSN009, powered by four Engine Alliance GP7200 engines, to the United States. The visits are part of the ongoing route proving process for this aircraft/engine-combination. The aircraft, which has no passenger-cabin, is on static display at the following airports:
- Connecticut Bradley International Airport (BDL): 2nd – 3rd October
- Kentucky Cincinnati/N. Kentucky Airport (CVG): 3rd – 4th October
- California San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 4th – 5th October
Both demonstration tours are part of the extensive campaign to prepare the A380 for a smooth entry into service. Operating under typical airline conditions, both aircraft will undergo airport compatibility checks, ground handling and maintenance procedures to confirm its readiness to enter service. The A380 has already visited more than 45 airports and by 2011, more than 70 airports will be ready for A380 operations.
Total orders and commitments for the A380 are 173 by 14 customers. The first customer A380 will be delivered to Singapore Airlines in October. Subsequent aircraft, for delivery to Singapore Airlines, Emirates Airlines and Qantas, are also well on track.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Friday, August 17, 2007
August 15, 2007
Jet Airways launches Mumbai to New York services
Wolfgang Prock-Schauer, Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airways said, “This is truly a historic moment for us, to commence service on this important sector connecting India with the United States. We are also proud to present to our traveling public, this state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ER aircraft offering superior cabin comfort, equipped with the world’s best flat beds and an In-flight Entertainment system (IFE) which promises to offer unmatched passenger delight. We are proud to be launching our transatlantic service, and taking the spirit of New India, into one of the world’s most important markets.
”For the operations of the Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft, Jet Airways have signed up with Lufthansa Technik for maintenance support and assignment of qualified engineers.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Wednesday, August 15, 2007
August 13, 2007
Royal Jet expands air fleet
Royal Jet, the international luxury executive flight services company, headquartered in the UAE, has expanded its current fleet of executive jets with the addition of a fifth Boeing Business Jet (BBJ). The multi-million dollar deal has been made in partnership with First Gulf Bank (FGB) which has financed the purchase of the aircraft. This is the second such financing deal that Royal Jet has made with FGB.
At the contract signing ceremony, which was attended by Royal Jet’s President and CEO Shane O’Hare and Andre Sayegh, CEO, First Gulf Bank, O’Hare said that this latest purchase is a direct response to massive demand for the current fleet of Royal Jet’s BBJs.
“Each of our BBJs is typically flying around 1,300 hours each year. They are based all over the world, not limiting themselves purely to local markets. They can be found in Africa, China, India, North America and Europe and are a highly popular and cost effective choice for businesses not wishing to be tied down by restricted flight times offered by commercial airline companies,” O’Hare stated.
In addition to the two CEOs, the signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Nadir Ahmed Al Hamadi – a Royal Jet Board Member, and Mr. Ramzi Zaroubi – Royal Jet’s Chief Finance Officer, together with Mr. Shafiqur Rahman Adhami – FGB’s Senior Vice President Corporate Banking Group, Head of Financial Institutions, Syndications, MNC and Energy and Oil Sector.
Royal Jet CEO Shane O’Hare added, that FGB had been chosen as the preferred business partner because it was the most competitive in terms of pricing and flexibility and its fast turnaround of loan documentation. FGB had been selected out of five competing proposals. “Royal Jet has a long-standing relationship with First Gulf Bank, and together offer financing and operations solutions allowing corporations and individuals to acquire their own business/private aircraft,” he said.
Commenting on the deal, Andre Sayegh, CEO, First Gulf Bank, said that the institution viewed Royal Jet as one of its premier customers and was very pleased to have been selected once again as Royal Jet’s partner of choice.
“First Gulf Bank continues to take impressive strides to ensure its status as a fully-fledged financial institution. This growth is buoyed by our commitment to expanding our offerings, delivering world-class financial services and products, and developing new client investment opportunities. As a leader in its field, Royal Jet fits this strategy and our partnership is one that brings great benefits to both parties,” he said.
Royal Jet has steadily built up an enviable fleet, which, in the past year, has grown from eight to 12 fixed wing aircraft and a VIP helicopter.
The BBJ is a derivative of Boeing’s New-Generation 737-700 series of commercial passenger aircraft. It can be arranged in multiple configurations to carry between 36 and 52 passengers, including the option of having a private bedroom aboard, a conference/dining area, and a living area in the most common layouts. It has a maximum range of 5,500 nautical miles – equivalent to about 10 hours flying time – at altitudes of up to 41,000 ft (12,500m).
“We are constantly striving to increase our presence in important international markets and we always assess industry movements to keep up with the increasing demand for aviation services,” said Ramzi Zaroubi, CFO, Royal Jet. “Last year alone, Royal Jet reported a 60 percent increase in charter services revenue, and with our expanding fleet, we are well placed to capitalise on the ever-growing demand for private aviation services.”
“This BBJ addition will be subject to high demand like all its earlier companion aircraft and will allow us to successfully grow out business regionally and internationally,” Ramzi added.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Monday, August 13, 2007
Singapore to begin works for F1 grand prix circuit
The process to get the street circuit ready for the inaugural Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix in 2008 has been set in motion. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is slated to begin road works sometime next month, while the design of the Paddock building is also being finalised.
This milestone comes after three months of intense planning by various government agencies with the race promoter, Singapore GP Pte Ltd, since Singapore announced it will host the world’s third most-watched sporting event from next year. A fortnight ago, on 27 July 2007, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA, or the World Motor Sports Council) set the date of the first Singapore Grand Prix as 28 September 2008.
The 5.05km long street circuit offers a number of overtaking opportunities, fast turns and technically challenging sections for F1 race drivers, which, in turn, will present viewers with compelling race action to keep them on the edge of their seats. More than 70 per cent of the street circuit is made up of Singapore’s existing road network. The Paddock building will house the control tower, garages for the teams, hospitality lounges, Press Room and other facilities.
Mr Lim Neo Chian, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, who chairs the event’s working committee, said, “I am pleased that the planning for the F1 Singapore Grand Prix is progressing well. We have refined the proposed street circuit and submitted the plans to the FIA, the international governing body for motorsports, for its assessment and endorsement. Concurrently, we are combing through the details for the rest of the infrastructure works, such as finalising the design concept and construction schedule of the Paddock building. We are confident that both the circuit and Paddock building will be officially endorsed very soon.”
The project team needs to work within a tight timeframe of fewer than 16 months to put in place the necessary infrastructure for the 2008 race. A high level of coordination between Government agencies and related stakeholders is required to ensure that the necessary infrastructure can be delivered in time.
Mr Lim added, “It is heartening to note the commitment and professionalism demonstrated by every member of the team in delivering a Grand Prix that all Singaporeans will be proud of.”
Mr Colin Syn, deputy chairman of Singapore GP, said that while the track layout, “hasn’t changed dramatically” from what was originally released, over the past two months the circuit has developed from a couple of lines sketched on a map into something that resembles a proper racetrack, with all the attendant infrastructure marked in.
“It’s going to be very exciting to see all this take shape. The sheer scale of the task required is simply staggering, but the support that we’ve received from all the government agencies involved has been tremendous,” he added.
Proposed road works
The following works, which will be managed by LTA, are expected to commence in September 2007, once the race route is confirmed by FIA:
- Construction of a 1.2 km road that will form the eastern section of the circuit
- A new vehicular/pedestrian underpass and service road leading to the Pit Building
- Widening of a stretch of the promenade between the existing outdoor seating gallery and floating platform in Marina Bay
- Widening a section of Raffles Boulevard from Nicoll Highway to Temasek Avenue
- Modifications to existing road kerbs and traffic islands
Michael Verikios - Monday, August 13, 2007
Egypt and Sudan combine tourism forces
Several meetings have taken place in Egypt to discuss means of cooperation and coordination of forces to help strengthen tourism between Egypt and Sudan. Representatives of the Egyptian Tourist Authority, Egyptian Tourism Federation and Egyptian Travel Agents Association met with members of the Sudanese Ministry of Tourism and the Embassy of Sudan in Egypt.
The discussion agenda included:
- Labour training in the Sudanese tourism sector
- Collaborating forces between the two parties for promoting Sudanese tourist products
- Investment facilities from the Sudanese Government granted to Egyptian
Theodore Koumelis - Monday, August 13, 2007
Travellers want to spend at Indian Airports
In India, nearly half of all travellers expressed a willingness to spend at airports according to a new survey by the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. 44% of Full Service Carrier (FSC) passengers, and nearly 40% of Low Cost Carrier (LCC) passengers would like to buy goods either at their departure or arrival airport.
In regard to retail behaviour, the findings reveal that there are only minor – near insignificant – differences between FSC and LCC buying sentiments. Furthermore, in each case, the propensity to buy appears strong across a range of products.
- 56% of FSC passengers and 52% of LCC passengers are attracted by the opportunity to buy chocolates at airports.
- 49% of LCC passengers would buy books, as compared to 44% for FSC.
- 47% of FSC passengers would be interested in purchasing luxury goods, as compared to 42% of LCS.
Michael Verikios - Monday, August 13, 2007
Tahiti Plane Crash Voice Recorder Located
Search teams have located the cockpit flight recorder of a passenger aircraft that crashed last week killing at least 14 people, but authorities said they would need specialist deep-water equipment to recover it.
The conversation voice recorder on board the Twin Otter could tell investigators why the aircraft with 19 passengers and a pilot came down on Thursday shortly after taking off from the island of Moorea on a short hop to the local capital Papeete.
But local authorities in Papeete said none of their vessels was stable enough to provide a platform for the underwater robot being sent from Paris to recover the recorder, discovered at a depth of around 430 metres.
France may ask nearby countries to lend it a vessel to conduct the recovery operation, the authorities said in a statement late on Sunday.
Fourteen bodies have been recovered but six people remain missing and authorities hold out no hope of any survivors. Senior official Anne Bocquet said teams would continue to search for wreckage and bodies for a further two weeks and had asked local fishermen to report objects found at sea.
Two police air crash investigators have been sent to the zone to work with three civilian experts in situ since Saturday.
Moorea is one of around 118 islands scattered across an area the size of Europe in the South Pacific that make up France's overseas territory of French Polynesia.
(Reuters)
Pakistani Flight Attendant Caught With Weapon
A Pakistani flight attendant was caught trying to carry a pistol on board a Pakistan International Airlines flight on Monday, police and airlines officials said.
The stewardess, in her mid-20s, was carrying the pistol in her hand luggage as she tried to board a PIA flight from Karachi to the port city of Gwadar, they said.
"She was caught this morning by Airports Security Force personnel and has been handed over to the police now," Maqsood Ahmed, a Superintendent of Police said.
It was not immediately clear as to why the woman tried to take the weapon onto the flight. Ahmed said the police were investigating.
PIA spokesman Nasir Jamal confirmed the incident, but did not give more details.
"The matter is still under investigation," he said.
(Reuters)
August 08, 2007
Travellers seek sustainable options survey reveals
Travellers are keen to make significant changes to their behaviour to travel sustainably as a new global survey by travel information company Lonely Planet reveals. Lonely Planet’s annual Travellers’ Pulse survey, which polled over 24,500 people worldwide, showed 84% of respondents said they would consider offsetting their emissions in the future, where only 31% had done so in the past.
One of the strongest changes for the future was in volunteering. A huge 79% of respondents said they would or might volunteer overseas in the future, with only 25% having done so in the past.
70% of travellers said they had purposefully travelled in a low-impact way in the past, (for example catching a bus rather than flying) and over 90% of people said they would or might do so in the future.
Travellers also have good intentions when it comes to protecting the environment. Although 36% of people had never purposefully considered the environment in their past travels, 93% of people said they would or might purposefully partake in environmentally friendly travel in the future.
Lonely Planet’s Adam Stanford said it was encouraging to see travellers embracing change, “The survey reveals that 73% of respondents feel that travel is ‘in their blood’, so its fantastic to see that people are consciously considering their impacts, and are willing to alter their actions to protect the destinations they love. It will be encouraging to watch whether these intended behaviours follow-through.”
The survey also revealed that the majority of travellers are worried about carbon emissions from flying, with only 7% saying that they did not think aircraft carbon emissions were a concern.
In the survey, respondents were given several options and asked to choose the one that they would primarily support for being most effective in reducing emissions from flights. While offsetting came out on top, with a quarter of all votes, surprisingly 43% chose one of the more radical options: boycotting flying for other less damaging modes of transport; airlines reducing the number of flights; increasing flying costs via a carbon tax; or everyone having an annual carbon allowance into which they must fit their travel.
Activity or interest has been a strong reason for travel in previous Travellers’ Pulse surveys. This year it was even stronger with 32% saying activity was their main purpose for travel, highlighting the growing trend towards exploring niche experiences rather than simply visiting destinations for sightseeing.
Lonely Planet has encouraged responsible travel since its first guide was published more than 30 years ago, and in recent years has stepped up its sustainable travel advice. Recently, Lonely Planet released a new volunteering handbook called Volunteer: A Travellers Guide to Making a Difference Around the World, and in November 2007 Lonely Planet’s new Australia guide will feature a new GreenDex – a quick-reference index of sustainable accommodation, tours and experiences.
Lonely Planet’s annual Travellers’ Pulse Survey was conducted online at lonelyplanet.com and via 49 partner websites, and is arguably the world’s most authoritative independent travel survey. The survey’s 24,500 respondents were from 144 countries.
Data for ASIA respondents only:
(Respondents from Asian countries including India, Singapore, Malaysia and China)
- 45% of respondents in Asia said they had offset their carbon emissions from flying in the past, and 88% of respondents in Asia said they would or might offset their emissions in the future
- 22% of respondents in Asia say they have volunteered in a foreign country in the past. 85% said they would or might do so in the future
- 80% of Asian travellers said they had purposefully travelled in a low-impact way in the past, (for example catching a bus rather than flying). And 94% said they would or might do so in the future
- 24% of Asian travellers had never purposefully considered the environment in their past travels, however 97% of Asians said they would or might purposefully partake in environmentally friendly travel in the future
Visa Waiver expansion good news for travel industry says NTA
The National Tour Association, a strong supporter of the Visa Waiver Program expansion, welcomed this latest legislation which has been signed by President Bush, noting that it will help the United States regain lost market share in international travel and improve the U.S. image abroad.
"As part of NTA`s 2007 advocacy priorities, NTA is committed to addressing border crossing issues to ensure a secure, timely and seamless transportation experience," said NTA Legislative Counsel Jim Santini. "This is welcome news for NTA tour operators and other travel companies that stand to benefit from the new spending that will be generated by the millions of additional annual visitors to the United States."
The new legislation will expand the program — which currently allows citizens from 27 countries to visit the United States for up to 90 days without a visa — by 12 nations. Countries can qualify for the program by demonstrating that their citizens observe visa stay deadlines and maintain a refusal rate of 10 percent or lower for applicants seeking U.S. travel visas. Previously, the refusal rate was set at three percent. The new language also gives Homeland Security flexibility to approve a country`s application based on its law enforcement and anti-terror cooperation with America.
The legislation, which addressed recommendations proposed by the 9/11 Commission, also contained provisions to improve the welcoming and arrival process at America`s top 20 overseas inbound airports. The provisions should decrease the time it takes to get through customs, since more than 200 customs officers will be hired, and provide better information in the Federal Inspection Services area through promotional videos and brochures.
"The new Visa Waiver provisions will allow more legitimate travelers to visit the United States visa-free while enhancing our security," said Santini. "NTA believes this will stimulate international inbound tourism to the United States, welcoming friendly nations that deserve to be incorporated into the existing Visa Waiver program."
Theodore Koumelis - Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Viva Macau beefs up flights for Macau — Jakarta direct route
Viva Macau has increased flight frequency to its Macau-Jakarta direct service to four times a week. Currently flying three times a week directly between Macau and Jakarta, Viva Macau will launch one additional flight to its weekly schedule, commencing August 28, 2007.
The new schedule will see the airline flying from Macau to Jakarta every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. In return from Jakarta to Macau, the schedule will be every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
The service is operated by the airline’s Boeing 767 wide-body aircraft, offering two-class seating — Premium Class and Economy Class.
Viva Macau’s Chief Executive Con Korfiatis said the increase of frequency offers flexibility to different travelers in both Macau and Indonesia.
Korfiatis said, “Business travelers, especially for Indonesians who come to Macau for meetings, events, and exhibitions, will find it more convenient with our additional flights. The new schedule with Saturday and Sunday flights will also be attractive to more leisure travelers who are looking for weekend getaways.”
With Jakarta also being one gateway to Bali, Korfiatis said the new schedule will also benefit Macau holidaymakers looking for a beach holiday.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Czech Airlines wins top awards
Czech Airlines (CSA) have been awarded as "Best Airline in Central Europe" Skytrax, an independent British organisation, as part of the World Airline Awards, in which airlines are ranked, based on the votes of millions of passengers from all over the world.
In addition to this regional recognition – as the best airline in Central Europe – CSA`s cabin crews were also recognized by receiving the "Best Cabin Staff" award for the Central European region. On a European-wide scale, CSA`s cabin crews took third place. T
"We greatly value this recognition. The fact that CSA has been able to win this award at a time when competitive pressures are continuing to build throughout the industry confirms CSA`s strong position on the market – especially in Central and Eastern Europe. This award is also evidence that the ongoing restructuring taking place at CSA has not had any impact on the quality of the delivery of our product, which continues to be among the best offered in Europe," said Czech Airline`s President, Radomír Lašák, in commenting on the award.
The award received from Skytrax is not the only professional recognition recently received by CSA. For the fourth year in a row, the Airline has been able to maintain its rating as the "Best Airline Based in Central and Eastern Europe", which is an award given out annually by the Official Airline Guide (OAG), an international airline organisation. These awards are voted on by frequent business travellers. Earlier this year, CSA also received – for the seventh time – the "Best Airline" award, given out as part of the TTG Travel Awards 2007 competition, organised by the travel sector magazine TTG Czech.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Wednesday, August 08, 2007
