Island Aviation Services (IAS) has revealed that the changes would be brought to its international flight schedule due to essential maintenance work on the runway at Trivandrum Airport. Airline revealed that changes would take effect from 1 of April 2008.
Ismail Shujau Assistant Director speaking to Miadhu Daily said as repair of the runway is due to carried out from 1 of April to end of June; the airline has decided to change its flight timings to Trivandrum. He revealed that this is due to closure of Trivandrum Airport for runway maintenance from 1330 hours to 1930 hours daily.
“Our schedule falls in to that period, we depart from Male’ at 1720 and arrive in Trivandrum at 1830, departure from Trivandrum is 2000 hours and land in Male’ at 2110.” Shujau said.
Shujau further revealed that even though flight timings are changed, there will be no change to the number of flights and daily flights would continue.
Island Aviation Services a fully government owned body commenced its international operations on 25 of January this year. At the present the airline only operates to Trivandrum in India although the airline has recently disclosed its intention to operate to Sri Lanka in the near future. (Miadhu News)
March 30, 2008
IAS to change flight timings to India
AIRPORT NEWS
Problems continue at Heathrow T5
Problems continued at Heathrow T5 today, with BA cancelling 20% of is shorthaul flights – a total of 36. More cancellations are expected over the weekend, but according to a spokesman “Everything will be fine by Monday.” Today was a lot better than the chaos seen yesterday, however, with passengers able to check-in hold luggage.BA blamed staff familiarisation, and said that it took much longer than anticipated for baggage handling staff to pass through BAA’s security checks and commence work in the correct pace in the morning. The two company’s report that they are now working together to ensure that procedures are faster and smoother in the future.
Apparently yesterday’s main baggage handling problems were caused by the failure of handling staff to remove bags from conveyors fast enough before loading them onto aircraft, thereby causing a jam throughout the system right up to the check-in desks.
Oneworld in Pudong
Five of the oneworld member airlines serving Shanghai Pudong are to co-locate in the airport’s new Terminal 2 starting on 26 March.
British Airways and Qantas transferred to the new facility for the new opening yesterday. Cathay Pacific and its sister Dragonair, along with Finnair, will follow on 29 April. American Airlines intends to move to Terminal 2 later but will remain in Terminal 1 for now, alongside fellow oneworld member Japan Airlines and their code-share partner China Eastern, which will also stay there.
Cathay Pacific and Dragonair will announce details of their new lounge in Terminal 2 ahead of their move. Situated airside opposite gate D68, the lounge will be available to Emerald and Sapphire tier cardholders in any oneworld airline frequent flyer programme when flying on any oneworld airline from the terminal, and also to First and Business Class passengers flying on any oneworld airline.
Once the airline moves have been completed, Shanghai Pudong’s airport operator will refurbish Terminal 1 to bring it up to comparable standards to Terminal 2. Oneworld airlines offer almost 200 flights a week from Shanghai Pudong.
Previously all star alliance members including Shanghai airlines, Air china, Lufthansa and ANA decided to move to the new terminal under one roof.
Pilot pioneer lands first T5 flight
British Airways’ first female pilot flew the first plane to land today at Heathrow’s new £4.3 billion (US$ 8.6 billion) Terminal Five (T5). Captain Lynn Barton, 51, became BA’s first woman pilot in 1987. She was the flight commander on BA026 from Hong Kong, which landed six minutes early at 04:50 GMT.
Before the flight Barton commented: “I was incredibly proud to have been British Airways’ first ever woman pilot and now I have another first to my name. I’m already planning my passenger announcement for the first ever landing at T5. I want to make sure that I mark the occasion so that every one of my passengers can be part of history too.”
Barton applied to operate the flight last month while she was on holiday. “It was my husband’s idea to bid for the flight, but the timing meant I had to tear myself off the beach and find a computer so that I could apply through the airline’s flight bidding system. I found out when I got back from my holiday and was absolutely thrilled. Terminal 5 has been the focus of the airline’s future for several years now, and to operate the very first flight is a huge honour.”
BA now has 175 female pilots.
Left: Captain Lynn Barton
Domodedovo rated tops in growth
In 2007 Moscow Domodedovo was first in terms of growth rate for its airport category. It was 19th among European airports and leader among the airports of Eastern Europe in terms of passenger service growth. The results were announced last week in Brussels during the annual ACI Europe conference.
The total growth in passenger service in Europe was 6.5% in the reported year, which demonstrates the stable development of European airports. Moscow Domodedovo was found leader in the second group, which comprised airports handling 10-25 million people annually.
The growth in passenger service at Domodedovo was 22%, followed by Berlin Templehof, Dublin, Athens, Milan Malpensa and Geneva airports.
Boeing Confirms 737 Order from Turkmenistan Airlines
SEATTLE, — The Boeing Company confirmed an order for three Next-Generation 737s by national flag carrier Turkmenistan Airlines. The order for two 737-900ERs and one 737-700 is worth approximately $221 million at list prices.
Turkmenistan Airlines’ all-Boeing fleet also includes 717s, Classic and Next-Generation 737s, 757s, and one 767.
“Turkmenistan Airlines is taking maximum advantage of the commonality of the Next-Generation 737 family. By integrating the different model sizes, including the larger -900ER, into its fleet, Turkmenistan Airlines can grow its fleet with lower investments in parts, equipment and training,” said Craig Jones, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for Russia & Central Asia.
The Next-Generation 737 family is the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737’s market success is confirmed by air finance investors, who consistently rank it as the most preferred airplane due to its wide market base, superior efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class.
The 737 has logged more orders than any other commercial jet model in history, with more than 7,800 orders. Boeing has more than 2,100 unfilled orders for the Next-Generation 737, worth more than $150 billion at current list prices.
Bangalore International Airport Ltd to introduce domestic user charge
Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) has defied Ministry of Civil Aviation requests by proposing plans to issue a User Development Fee (UDF) of USD6 on outbound domestic passengers and USD13 on international passengers for the first two months after it launches operations. Thereafter, it plans to increase them to USD16.80 and USD23.80, respectively.
According to BIAL CEO, Albert Brunner, it would not be fair to charge only international passengers on the same facilities being used by domestic passengers.
Similarly, a UDF will also be levied by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL) to domestic passengers at the new Rajiv Gandhi International Airport within the next three months. GHIAL will also introduce USD24.80 to outbound international passengers.
Indian Government originally approved the new airports to levy UDF to allow the greenfield airport operators to recover development costs.
However, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is reportedly now planning to mandate future greenfield airport developers to cross-subsidise aeronautical development with non-aeronautical revenues, although it would not be applicable to the new Bangalore and Hyderabad airports.
A spokesman for the Ministry stated, “rightly or wrongly, agreements have been signed with GHIAL and BIAL, and this allows them to collect UDF to recover their cost. But in Delhi and Mumbai airports, the operators are supposed to cross-subsidise aeronautical cost with 30% of their non-aeronautical revenue, it would be applicable for all future greenfield projects”.
Jet Airways to launch services to San Francisco via Shanghai
Jet Airways will commence daily service from San Francisco International Airport to Shanghai and India on 05 May 2007, it was announced by founder and chairman of Jet Airways, Naresh Goyal.
With this launch, Jet Airways becomes the first Indian airline to fly from San Francisco to Mumbai and only the second airline worldwide to fly nonstop from San Francisco to Shanghai. The flight from San Francisco International Airport will also be the airline's fourth daily North American departure to India, following new launches of service from New York's JFK and Newark airports, and Toronto Pearson International Airport, within the past year.
"With the introduction of this new transpacific route to India aboard Jet Airways," observed Goyal, "we continue our airline's unprecedented expansion throughout North America. I am immensely proud of our team's accomplishments of launching four new long-haul routes in less than a year."The new Jet Airways transpacific flights aboard Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will offer unprecedented levels of luxury, privacy and comfort in the air, including First Class suites with the world's longest airline beds, private closets, dining tables for two, and 23" flat-screens. Première (business) class pods offer what are considered the most comfortable Business Class seats in the sky that convert to 73"-long totally flat beds. Leg-room in Economy is more generous than the norm - and passengers in all three classes have access to the state-of-the-art Panasonic eX2 entertainment system, complete with 200+ movies, games and endless music choices - heard through Bose noise-cancelling headphones.
Emirates denies plans to buy Japan's first passenger jet
Dubai-based airline Emirates denied reports it is planning to buy a new regional passenger jet under development in Japan -- the first such aircraft to be built in the country.
Emirates is in talks about buying the Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), which would seat 70 to 90 passengers, Japan's Kyodo News agency said, quoting an unnamed source familiar with the matter.
But a Dubai-based spokesman for Emirates said it did not plan to buy any of the jets, which are billed as the most quiet, light and fuel-efficient model in their class and are being developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
"Emirates has always operated an all wide-body aircraft fleet and we have no intention of purchasing any regional jets for our business," he said.
Mitsubishi has begun marketing the MRJ and has chosen the new geared turbofan engine from Pratt & Whitney, part of United Technologies Corp, to power the aircraft.
It said it would decide by the end of March whether to go ahead with the project, based on the level of interest among airlines.
Kyodo News said Vietnam Airlines was considering buying about 20 of the jets, while US and European carriers were also showing interest in the aircraft, which could enter service in 2012.
Japan's All Nippon Airways has also said it is considering buying the new fuel-efficient regional plane if it is built and Japan Airlines is reported to have shown interest in the jet.
If it becomes a reality, the aircraft would be the first commercial passenger aircraft in four decades -- and the first ever jet aircraft -- to be built in Japan.
Japanese car maker Toyota Motor Corp said this month it was considering financial backing for the venture.
China Eastern Airlines, Jet Airways, Qatar Airways and United Airlines Ready for Take-Off at Changi Airport Terminal 3
Four more airlines will begin their flight operations at Singapore Changi Airport's new Terminal 3 on Wednesday, 26 March 2008. China Eastern Airlines, Jet Airways, Qatar Airways and United Airlines will join Singapore Airlines and shift their operations from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3. Singapore Airlines has been operating at Terminal 3 since the terminal begins operations on 9 January 2008.
Among the four airlines, China Eastern Airline's flight will be the first to arrive and depart from Terminal 3. Flight MU545 from Shanghai will arrive at Terminal 3 at 2050 hours on Tuesday, 25 March 2008. The same aircraft will depart for Shanghai at 0055 hours on 26 March 2008.
For the other three airlines, United Airlines will handle its first arrival flight from Atlanta (via Chicago and Hong Kong) at 2325 hours on Tuesday, 25 March 2008, while its first departure flight will take off at 0650 hours on 26 March 2008. Jet Airways will handle its first arrival flight from Mumbai at 0735 hours and first departure flight to Chennai at 0920 hours. Qatar Airways will see its arrival flight from Jakarta at 0145 hours and first departure flight to Doha at 0245hours.
Since February 2008, the four airlines have undergone integrated airport system trials at Terminal 3 involving passenger check-in, baggage handling, staff familiarisation and "live" commercial trial flights to test the actual passenger departure and arrival processes. The objective of these trials is to ensure that the airlines establish, integrate and test their systems and procedures in a live-like environment ahead of their shift to Terminal 3. The trials also provide opportunities for the airlines' staff to familiarise themselves with the new terminal.
CAAS has put in place measures to communicate the commencement of operations by these four airlines at Terminal 3. These include the updating of airport directories and signs within the terminal buildings as well as dissemination of circulars and vehicle decals to ground transport service providers such as coach and taxi drivers to generate awareness.
Passengers and airport visitors can visit Changi Airport’s website www.changiairport.com for more details. Passengers can also check for flight information conveniently while on the move via their mobile phones or personal digital devices at http://wap.changiairport.com/fis. This wireless application protocol (WAP) complements the flight information sources already in place, such as Teletext (a text based television flight information service), Changi Airport's toll-free telephone flight enquiry system number 1800-5424422 as well as the airport website and flight information televisions within the terminals mentioned above. In addition, CAAS will also be deploying Customer Service Officers at the three terminals to provide assistance to passengers and airport visitors.
The four airlines operate a total of 148 weekly flights from Singapore to 12 cities viz. Shanghai, Kunming, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Doha, Jakarta, Atlanta, Chicago, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Washington DC, bringing a total of more than 900 weekly scheduled flights at Terminal 3.
Oman Air renews GDS agreement with Sabre
Oman Air and Sabre Travel Network Middle East renewed their distribution agreement on 24-Mar-08. This agreement will allow Oman Air to promote and support Sabre as its preferred GDS through joint sales and marketing activities in Oman and beyond. As part of the agreement Oman Air will be providing additional benefits to the travel agency community including the managing of group travel and limousine bookings. In addition Oman Air will have an option to expand its check-in services to its customers through its existing agreement with Sabre.
The expected result of this renewal is enhanced cost effectiveness, superior inventory management and increased product offerings, all benefits that Oman Air can pass on to its customers - the travel agents - locally, regionally and globally, due to the reach of Sabre's global distribution systems (GDS).
This agreement will provide a springboard for both partners, allowing further expansion in the region whilst capitalizing on the synergies created throughout the long term relationship. This is in a market where Sabre has achieved a significant increase in its market presence in less than two years. Oman Air has also enjoyed significant growth in recent years expanding both its routes and fleet.
Daniel Naoumovitch, CEO of Sabre, said: "We are extremely proud to be recognized as the preferred GDS of one of the fastest growing carriers in the region. Sabre's robust technology, innovative suite of products and excellent customer service has allowed us to enhance Oman Air's offer to its customers, the travel agencies, and therefore the end travel consumer."
Ziad Al Haremi, CEO of Oman Aviation Services (Oman Air) said: "We have invested significantly in our operations previously, as well as in recent years with a view to making Oman Air not only a regional player, but an international one. Our new corporate identity project has aided the carrier's transformation into a world-class airline. The airline has vigorously rejuvenated itself as a major carrier in the region. With our expanding fleet, we can offer new routes and more frequent flights regionally and globally, and the end result is more passenger choice. We look forward to continuing our mutually beneficial relationship with Sabre and to reaping the benefits of their constantly evolving technology and products."
Oman is a particularly buoyant market for Sabre which is looking forward to further signings with top travel agencies this year. The company is well placed to capture new business as they have recently increased their team on the ground, as well as opening several more offices in the Sultanate.
Emirates to launch a low cost carrier - 1,000 seat A380s coming to an airport near you?
There is a need for an LCC in the region” - and with those words from the UAE Prime Minister and Vice President, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, a new Dubai-based LCC was born. In a major development for the global aviation industry (where another high profile full service airline develops an in-house LCC), Emirates Executive VP Commercial Operations, Ghaith Al-Ghaith, has been appointed CEO of the new airline.
The unnamed Dubai LCC will be part of the Emirates Group, operating to destinations up to 4.5 hours flying time from its base. This includes the Middle East, all the key points in the India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Northeast Africa (Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa, Cairo) and as far as Greece in Southern Europe and Central Asia (where Emirates has no operations at present).
The new carrier plans to lease or buy single-aisle aircraft (B737s or A320s) and will begin operations within a year.
However, the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation believes it is only a matter of time before A380 equipment is eventually deployed at the airline – a move that would strike fear into airline managements in Europe and Asia.
Emirates has 58 A380s on order, or 30% of the entire global A380 orderbook. The carrier has previously indicated it could operate low cost services with A380 equipment. In Nov-07, Emirates President, Tim Clark, stated that, had the stretch version of the A380 been available today, “probably two-thirds” of the A380s the Dubai-based carrier had on order (or some 38 aircraft) would be for that model.
He indicated that Emirates (or now the LCC subsidiary) would configure the proposed A380-900 with around 750 seats on a typical service, although some of the aircraft could be configured with 1,000 seats for routes to countries such as Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
The airline is currently officially planning a higher density medium-haul configuration with 604 seats, although the A380-800 model is licensed to handle 853 in an all-economy layout.
The practical recognition of the potential of the A380 as a mass transport, low cost vehicle is sure to stimulate wider interest in the aircraft. Until now, its sales have not been spectacular; they were not helped by successive delivery delays. But as Singapore Airlines' first A380 landed in London this week, the tide may be turning.
The Emirates LCC move follows the success of Air Arabia, based in the neighbouring emirate of Sharjah, which has reported outstanding profitability since its launch and has recently established cross-border JVs in Morocco and Nepal to target the North Africa/Europe and Asian markets, respectively. Kuwait-based LCC, Jazeera Airlines, has also established a base in Dubai.
Dubai Airport is expected to overtake Singapore Changi this year, handling in excess of 40 million passengers. The emirate is developing a new airport at Jebel Ali that will ultimately become the biggest in the world, with capacity for 120 million passenger p/a. The Emirates LCC will become a key ingredient in making the Dubai world gateway vision a reality.
Air Arabia connects 11 Indian destinations in three years
Air Arabia announced it will launch services to New Delhi on 31-Mar-08, increasing its Indian operations to 11 destinations in the space of three years. Air Arabia commenced operations to India with the launch of services to Mumbai in Mar-05. The current ten Indian destinations served by Air Arabia include Ahmedabad, Chennai, Jaipur, Kochi, Mumbai, Nagpur, Coimbatore, Thiruvanathapuram, Bangalore and Kozhikode.
Air Arabia commenced operations in Oct-03 and currently operates a fleet of 11 new Airbus A320 aircraft, serving 38 destinations across Middle East, North Africa, Indian Subcontinent and Central Asia through its main hub in Sharjah, UAE.
ANA considering launching or buying an Asian low cost carrier
All Nippon Airways Co (ANA) stated it is seriously considering launching or buying a new Asian low cost carrier. ANA confirmed it could have a low cost carrier as soon as by Mar-09.
ANA spokesman, Rob Henderson, said "We are seriously examining the market and the likelihood of low-cost carriers flying into Haneda after it gets its fourth runway in Oct-10, and how we will take them on if they do… setting up an airline from scratch is an option, as is acquiring a new one, or possibly setting up a joint venture. We are seriously looking at the options now."
ANA stated that if it decides to go ahead with a regional low cost carrier, it might be based outside Japan. ANA already runs subsidiaries with niche markets, including a local low cost carrier, Air Next, which it set up in 2004.
Meanwhile, in 2007, larger rival, Japan Airlines Corp, commenced codesharing with Australian low cost carrier, Jetstar, which operates between Sydney and Kansai International Airport.
TUI Travel confident of TUIfly/Germanwings merger in 6-8 weeks
TUI Travel PLC's CEO, Peter Long, stated he is confident that a deal to merge the group's TUIfly with Deutsche Lufthansa AG's Germanwings will be finalised in six to eight weeks.
In Jan-08, TUI Travel signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lufthansa and its JV partner, Albrecht Knauf, the majority owner of Germanwings parent, Eurowings AG, with a view to merging the three charter and budget airlines to create a national rival to Air Berlin.
TUI Travel CEO, Peter Long, said "We are still in detailed talks with Lufthansa and I'm very confident that we will get a successful outcome. In terms of the timescale, it's probably 6-8 weeks."
Meanwhile, TUI Travel and Lufthansa will reportedly each hold 40% of the new entity, while Knauf will hold the remaining 20%.
WTM chairman: industry left behind in ethical thinking
KERALA – Speaking at the second International Conference on Responsible Tourism here last weekend, Fiona Jeffery, chairman of World Travel Market (WTM) claimed: "There is evidence that travel and tourism is lagging behind this trend for ethical thinking. Despite some excellent responsible tourism work around the world, there's still a very long way to go."
"Certainly in the UK, WTM World Responsible Tourism Day has come at the right time. In the past eight years, ethical concerns have soared in the UK with household expenditure on ethical goods and services almost doubling in the past five years," Jeffery said in a keynote speech.
She said that the aim of WTM World Responsible Tourism Day is that it will act as a catalyst for change, spreading best practice throughout the industry. But she warned that much more than lip service was needed by larger companies and organisations.
"It is noticeable", she continued, "that much of the current examples of best practice are operated by smaller organisations and specialist operators, often steered by passionate individuals who have given their life to ensuring a better world. Much more must be done by the international travel and tourism industry if it is to catch up with other sectors and fulfill the growing demands of holidaymakers."Thailand steps up tourism safety
BANGKOK – Weerasak Kowsurat, Thailand’s new Minister of Tourism and Sports, is leading efforts to implement measures designed to increase tourist safety at all tourist attractions throughout Thailand. The new measures will continue all year round and are expected to be fully in place before the upcoming Songkran Thai New Year celebrations from April 13-15.
Locations targeted for immediate attention include remote areas such as secluded beaches and other natural attractions that are popular with tourists. These include upland areas, waterfalls and caves.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS) is also working with provincial authorities to distribute information leaflets on safety tips to guesthouses and various other forms of accommodation that are popular choices with the ever increasing number of Fully Independent Travellers (FITs) who generally rely on recommendations from guide books to find their preferred accommodation.
Additionally, the MOTS is working on the development of a self-help information service whereby visitors or tourists will be able to access vital information themselves.
“We hope that our immediate response and the urgent implementation of these stringent new security measures will send a clear signal that Thai authorities take safety for tourists very seriously,” Minister Weerasak said.
March 18, 2008
Singapore's A380 Superjumbo Starts London Route
The world's biggest passenger plane left Singapore for London on Tuesday, marking the Airbus A380's first commercial flight to Europe.
The Singapore Airlines flight, carrying 449 passengers, lifted off the tarmac at 9.20 a.m. from Changi Airport, bound for London Heathrow Airport.
Passengers paid between SGD$2,000 (USD$1,447) and SGD$20,000 to be the first on the superjumbo's new daily service, which will take off on its return flight on the same day.
Among the passengers on Tuesday's flight were 17 customers who had been on the inaugural flight to Sydney, wearing custom-made polo shirts with "A380" emblazoned across the back.
"It's an experience, it's something special in my life, something that gets me away from my job and my desk," said Nicolas Dirac, a 32-year-old Swiss national who works as a computer professional at a pharmaceutical firm.
Singapore Airlines now has three superjumbos in service, with a further 16 on order and options for six more, and is planning to put the aircraft on daily flights to Tokyo from May 20.
(Reuters)
Airlines top list of consumer complaints
Airline-related issues overwhelmingly outnumber all complaints tour operators receive from travelers, according to an informal member survey conducted by the U.S. Tour Operators Association. The association - whose members send 11 million people on vacation yearly - reported that over 70% of responding tour operators cited airline problems as the most common complaint, followed by money-related issues, reported by 20% of members.
Missed connecting flights because of airline delays and cancellations were the most common airline-related complaint, with lack of service coming in second. Other complaints cited were airline cutbacks, full/overbooked flights, and lengthy check-in procedures including security. The hassle of flying caused one responding tour operator to say: "Airline travel is not fun," noting that the vacation now begins once the traveler arrives at the destination, rather than the flight being considered part of the vacation.
Money-related concerns such as high air fares, added taxes, fuel surcharges and the European exchange rate came in a distant second in terms, of consumer complaints. Of these, the most common complaints concerned airlines and the weak dollar.
A minority of USTOA tour operators and vacation packagers cited dissatisfaction with hotel accommodations as a source of complaints."In the past, most complaints centered around accommodations due to unrealistic expectations among some travelers who expected to find U.S. standards in other countries. However, today the type of complaint has shifted, where airline-related issues account for the vast majority of complaints," says Bob Whitley, USTOA president.
The survey was based on responses of 33 total operators representing over half of USTOA's Active Corporate members.
Exclusive Lufthansa terminal area opened in Frankfurt
The new passenger handling area between the C and D concourses in Terminals 1 and 2 was officially inaugurated at Frankfurt Airport yesterday (17 March). With two waiting levels and amply dimensioned bridges, the new pier in the passageway linking the C and D concourses meets optimally all the requirements for operations with Lufthansa’s future flagship, the Airbus A380.
Entirely new is the pier concept allowing passengers to board their flights direct from two separate levels.
“The new and exclusive Lufthansa gate area located on two levels is unique, worldwide. Even before the first 380 enters service with the Lufthansa fleet, we are already laying on more space and comfort for passengers prior to flight departure,” said Karl Ulrich Garnadt, Executive Vice President Services and Human Resources at Lufthansa Passenger Airlines.
With the new two-level boarding concept, Lufthansa can now channel First, Business and Economy-Class passengers into separate areas as soon as they access the waiting and boarding zone at the airport. Once through the security controls, First and Business-Class passengers as well as status customers go straight to the Priority Gates on Departures Level Three. These gates, designed in Lufthansa business-lounge style, offer comfortable waiting zones with easy chairs to relax in, as well as workstations equipped with wireless Internet access and spacious bistros serving drinks and light menus. First-Class passengers as well as HON Circle members or Senators also have the use of an exclusive Senator Lounge with a panoramic view of the airport apron, and the take-off and landing strips.
Four open gates for Economy-Class passengers on the second level are equipped with ample seating arrangements and snackbars. Spacious glass facades give the interior a bright, friendly and airy atmosphere. The open gates allow passengers to move around freely in the entire handling areas and afford a good view of traffic on the airport apron.
Extra comfort is also characteristic in the passageway from the check-in counters to the new pier. Wider moving walkways and escalators help passengers easily negotiate their way through the passageway, daylight and a daylight-adaptive lighting system light up the gangways and air-conditioning keeps the temperature at a pleasant level. Three A380s and a Boeing 747 can be handled, simultaneously, at the new C/D pier. Gates C15 and C16 are each additionally equipped to accommodate two smaller aircraft, e.g. of the A320 type.
Royal Jet takes WTA Award
The award was presented to Royal Jet’s President & CEO, Shane O’Hare by the WTA’s Executive Director Manon Han at a gala lunch reception in London’s prestigious Mosimann’s dining club in Belgravia.
Accepting the award in front of an audience of invited guests, including His Excellency Mohammed Al Zaabi from the UAE Embassy in the UK, O’Hare said the timing of the accolade could not have been better.
“Royal Jet this year celebrates its fifth anniversary – and to have achieved such an honour in such a relatively short time frame speaks volumes about the high esteem with which we are regarded throughout the industry and the very high level of service which our customers have come to expect from us,” said O’Hare.
The audience was told that although the selection process had been a difficult one, Royal Jet was picked for its reliability, fine aircraft interiors, its exceptional bespoke client services and dedication to delivering the ultimate in safety, efficiency and luxury.
“The award, which owes much to the direction Royal Jet has taken under the leadership of its Chairman, His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, is even more valued because of the reputation we enjoy amongst our industry peers and partners,” O’Hare said.
The WTA award comes just four months after Royal Jet won another prestigious award - Business Jet Provider of the Year - at the Aviation Business Awards ceremony in Dubai.
Sheikh Hamdan said the awards were the culmination of a great deal of dedication and hard work by all at Royal Jet. “These accolades belongs to all our people who have worked tirelessly to ensure we represent the pinnacle of customer service and professionalism in the industry; and on their behalf, I can promise that we will live up to the expectations inherent in this solid vote of confidence.”
Teens Fly Into Record Books At CPM
Two Kids, 11 Solos!
Two 16-year olds from Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum flew into the record books this weekend, when they each set new world records on Saturday, March 15, 2008.
Kelly Anyadiki (above) became the youngest African American female to solo in four different aircraft on the same day, while Jonathan Strickland (below) established a new record as the youngest African American male to solo six different airplanes, and a second record for soloing six airplanes plus one helicopter all on the same day.
The records were set at Compton Woodley Airport in front a large crowd. Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca was on hand to witness the event, as were other members of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, many of whom flew in from across the country to attend the event.
"These new world records the kids set are an example of where the past meets the present and the future!" said Robin Petgrave, founder of Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum.
"What Robin and these kids are doing here would have made my dad very happy," said Chauncey E. Spencer II, whose father was instrumental in getting African Americans approved for flight training in Tuskegee, AL during World War II. Spencer flew in from Michigan just to witness the world record flights.
Located at Compton Woodley Airport (CPM) in Compton, CA, Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum offers aviation-themed afterschool programs for more than 800 kids from grades K-12. Kids can take part in projects ranging from washing airplanes to graffiti mitigation. Instead of earning money, kids earn 'museum dollars,' which they can apply toward flight instruction or continued education in any field.
Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum plans to open additional locations across the country. The Newport News, VA chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen will open a TAM operation this spring, and the city of Norwalk and the ‘Adopt A Bike’ program in San Bernardino, CA. have plans to open a TAM as well.
Low cost Indonesian airline Adam Air to be shut down
Jakarta: Indonesian low-cost carrier Adam Air will no longer be allowed to fly, Indonesian officials said on Tuesday, citing concerns over safety.
The director general for air transportation, Budhi Mulyawan Suyitno said the airline's operating license was being revoked starting Wednesday because safety procedures had been ignored. He added that the airline’s pilot training program was inadequate.
The carrier suffered a string of accidents last year and is facing bankruptcy after two if its largest shareholders announced that they would be pulling out of the company.All 102 passengers died when an Adam Air plane plunged into the sea in 2007, while another broke in half on a hard landing. In the most recent incident, five people were badly injured when a Boeing 731-400 skidded off a runway.
India facing pilot shortage
Indian Civil Aviation Minister, Praful Patel, stated the country’s airlines are facing an acute shortage of “type rated” pilots.
According to Mr Patel, 994 foreign pilots were recruited recently by Indian carriers to meet their expansion needs. Foreign pilots are currently permitted to fly in India under an agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organisation.
To combat the pilot shortage issue, the government has raised the pilot retirement age to 65. In addition, it is investing heavily in pilot training infrastructure, as it aims to increase the number of local pilots graduating from 40 to 100 p/a.
With the Indian aviation sector expected to continue to boom, the demand for pilots, cabin crew, maintenance staff will also intensify.
CAE meanwhile, recently, signed a contract to become the managing partner of the Indian government’s flight training academy, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi. CAE also signed a JV agreement with the Airport Authority of India (AAI) to develop the Rajiv Gandhi National Flying Training Institute.
Monarch Airlines named the Official Airline Partner of The Golf Show 2008
Monarch Airlines has been named as the Official Airline Partner of the London Golf Show and NEC Golf Show for 2008, and will undertake a series of activity around the events to highlight its network of destinations which provides access to some of Europe’s golf courses.
Lufthansa introduces Non stop flights from Dammam to Frankfurt
As of April 1st, 2008, Lufthansa German Airlines will fly Non stop from Dammam to Frankfurt three times a week and four times a week from Bahrain on First, Business and Economy class with the Airbus 330-300, thus enabling the airline to offer daily non-stops flights throughout the week.
“Driven by its commitment to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and in order to further enhance its product in the Eastern province, Lufthansa offers its customer’s early arrivals into Frankfurt with connectivity and comfort they deserve. We see a definite growth in the Gulf region and the Dammam sector will prove to be an ongoing success,” said Mr. Rolf Koller, General Manager – Saudi Arabia, Lufthansa German Airlines and Swiss International Air lines (Swiss).
He added, “Lufthansa offers a strong signal of commitment to its customers. It seals our presence in the region for the long-haul number one choice for flight connections to Germany, Europe, USA as well as to our new oil destinations of the world such as Bergen, Calgary, Luanda and Malabo.“
nasair launches first international service
nasair, Saudi Arabia's first low-fare airline, commenced services to the UAE on Wednesday 12th March, adding its first international destination to an already extensive domestic route network in the Kingdom.
nasair will operate 10 flights a week linking Riyadh and Jeddah to Sharjah.
To celebrate this milestone, the airline will provide special launch fares starting from AED 89.
nasair has taken delivery of brand new Airbus A320 aircraft to operate its international routes. CEO Ed Winter commented "nasair is really proud to offer our customers the comfort and reliability of brand new aircraft. We are now operating the youngest fleet in the region."
"This is a welcome development for us and we expect the new route to UAE to attract not only outbound leisure passengers and boost incoming tourism, but also to appeal to a large sector of business travellers" said Taher Agueel, National Air Services (NAS) President. Seats are available for booking through flynas.com, the nasair reservation centre and travel agents, with special low rates for early bookings.
The airline is expanding its operations internationally, to answer a growing demand from passengers travelling between Saudi Arabia and UAE who are looking for value and affordable prices. The carrier is expected to launch other international destinations in the near future.
Philippines to boost ecotourism offerings
MANILA - The Philippines Department of Tourism (DoT) has stepped up its thrust to highlight ecotourism around the country through Magandang Pilipinas.
The project brings together the DoT, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ABS-CBN Foundation’s Bantay Kalikasan and US-based nonprofit organization Conservation International to identify, develop and promote various ecotourism sites around the country.
"Our vision is for the Philippines to be recognized as a leading destination for ecotourism. The islands are already blessed with breathtaking natural beauty on land and underwater. The next step for us is to support our local communities and tourism establishments and stakeholders in conserving and properly utilizing this wealth," tourism secretary Ace Durano said.
The DoT will develop and implement activities to promote ecotourism sites to domestic and international travel markets.
Pilot areas and attractions under the Magandang Pilipinas project include whale shark interaction in Donsol, Sorsogon, the Verde Island Marine Passage Corridor between Batangas and Mindoro, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, the marine protected area and limestone karst in El Nido, and the Tubbataha National Marine Park.
Also to be tapped are areas currently under the DoT’s ecotourism program with New Zealand's International Aid & Development Agency (NZAID). These include the Banawe Rice Terraces in Ifugao, dolphin watching in Pamilacan, Bohol, the Hundred Islands in Pangasinan, Sapang Bato in Pampanga and Lake Sebu in South Cotabato.
March 13, 2008
Singapore Airlines A380 Flies To Tokyo From 20 May 2008
Tokyo will become the fourth city in the world to receive A380 commercial flights, when Singapore Airlines starts services to the Japanese capital on 20 May 2008.
The inaugural A380 flight to Tokyo - SQ636 - will depart Singapore’s Changi Airport on Tuesday, 20 May 2008, at 0040hrs and arrive at Tokyo’s Narita Airport at 0830hrs (all times local), on a special schedule to coincide with the 30th anniversary celebrations of Narita Airport.
The return flight, SQ637, will depart Narita at 1300hrs on Tuesday, 20 May 2008. The aircraft will touch down at Changi Airport on the same day at 1905hrs.
Thereafter, the Singapore Airlines A380 will commence regular scheduled services, operating SQ638 daily on the Singapore-Tokyo sector from 20 May 2008, and on SQ637 for the return leg from 21 May 2008. A schedule of the flight times can be found in Annex 1.
Singapore Airlines is the first to fly the A380: the world’s largest commercial aircraft. Tokyo is Singapore Airlines’ third A380 destination, following the commencement of the Singapore-Sydney service on 25 October 2007 and the Singapore-London service on 18 March 2008.
“We are proud to operate the inaugural A380 flight into Japan, the A380’s first Asian destination. The fact that Tokyo is the A380’s first Asian city highlights Singapore Airlines’ 40 years of dedicated service to the Japanese market,” said Mr. Huang Cheng Eng, Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice President, Marketing and the Regions.
“We are sure that our Japanese customers will be delighted to try our extensive range of new cabin products and the state-of-the-art entertainment system on board the A380,” Mr Huang added.
Besides operating to Tokyo 20 times weekly, Singapore Airlines also flies daily to Nagoya, five times weekly to Fukuoka and 17 times weekly to Osaka.
Those who wish to be part of this landmark experience may purchase tickets via the Singapore Airlines website, singaporeair.com, or through their travel agents.
Customers who hold ticketed bookings on flights to be operated by the A380 will be automatically accommodated on the new aircraft without any change required to their tickets. Customers holding bookings, but not yet ticketed, may need to check if there have been changes to their fares as a result of the aircraft change.
Qatar Airways Takes Part In World's Biggest Travel Trade Fair In Germany
Qatar Airways' imposing exhibition stand during ITB Berlin, at which the airline showcased its long-haul First Class seat (right) and a pair of Business Class seats pictured in the foreground
Qatar Airways was once again delighted to take part in the annual show, which attracted more than 150,000 visitors and over 10,000 exhibitors. The airline exhibited with a 200sqm two-tier stand, showcasing its world-renowned hospitality.
On display was Qatar Airways’ award-winning First and Business Class seats and a model of the New Doha International Airport, which is due to open in 2010. Qatar Airways also had a fabulous line-up on entertainment for visitors to enjoy.
To celebrate the launch of flights to the southern industrial city of Guangzhou in China on March 31, Qatar Airways had Chinese lion dancers performing regularly on the stand throughout the show.
Tourism officials from Houston are pictured with American cowgirl entertainers on Qatar Airways' stand promoting the airline's new route to the State of Texas later this year
During an ITB Berlin conference panel discussion on climate change, Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker spoke of the airline’s environmental drive – in particular, its move towards using gas-to-fuel (liquefied gas) technology to power its aircraft in the future. Such a move would, he said, significantly reduce carbon emissions and create greater operational efficiency.
Qatar Airways walked off with the runner-up prize at the 2008 Golden City Gate International Film awards at ITB Berlin for its TV vignettes produced by CNN International.
Al Baker, who headed a delegation from head office in Doha to the five-day event, held a press conference on the opening day of ITB Berlin, where he spoke of the airline’s summer expansion plans focusing on additional flights to more than a dozen cities worldwide.
Qatar Airways proudly showcases its brand at the entrance of Messe Berlin, venue for the world's largest travel trade show - ITB Berlin
“The show was a perfect platform to meet industry colleagues, make new and renew business relationships, but most of all, tell the world about our ever continuing success story.
“Over the years we have used the occasion at ITB Berlin to showcase our latest products, announce our newest routes and present our superb Arabic hospitality. And this year was no exception as we announced our new routes to Guangzhou and Houston, as well as unveil details of our summer capacity expansion.”
Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of 62 Airbus and Boeing aircraft to 81 destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Indian Subcontinent, Far East and North America.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker, pictured second night, showing guests on the exhibition stand a mock-up model of the New Doha International Airport which is due to open in 2010
Bombardier Sells Six CRJ900 NextGen Airliners To Iraq
Bombardier Aerospace announced today that the Government of Iraq has placed a firm order for six CRJ900 NextGen airliners which will be used for civilian airline services in Iraq. The transaction includes options on an additional four CRJ900 NextGen aircraft.
Ministry of Civil Aviation to complete modernisation of non-metro airports by March 2010
The Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Praful Patel informed the Parliament the target date for completion of modernization process of the 35 non-metro airports by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), is March 2010.
New Terminal Buildings expandable on modular basis are being constructed at Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Aurangabad, Agatti, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Goa, Jaipur, Lucknow, Indore, Khajuraho, Madurai, Mangalore, Port Blair, Ranchi, Raipur, Rajkot, Trivandrum, Trichy, Udaipur, Varanasi and Vishakhapatnam airports. Modification/expansion of existing Terminal Buildings is being undertaken at airports in Agra, Agartala, Coimbatore, Dimapur, Guwahati, Imphal, Jammu, Nagpur, Patna, Pune and Vadodara.
Airside works including expansion and strengthening of runway for wide bodied aircraft operations, extension/new construction of Apron for more parking of aircrafts, link taxiways and parallel taxi tracks are being taken up at these airports as per requirement. At 24 of these airports, cityside development through Public Private Partnership is being undertaken. Bids for pre-qualification have been received for Amritsar and Udaipur airports.
SriLankan Airlines carries 3.2 million passengers in 2007
SriLankan Airlines carried 3.2 million passengers around its global network in 2007, an increase of more than 100,000 over the previous year.
It was the largest number of passengers carried by the airline in a calendar year since its inception in 1979.
Significant increases were recorded in all regions – Europe, India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The largest improvements were in traffic to and from Frankfurt, Bahrain, Doha, Bangkok, and Singapore.
Manoj Gunawardena, Head of Worldwide Passenger Sales, said: “our worldwide team has achieved an excellent performance during the calendar year 2007. We remained strong in all regions, and our focus on the Indian market yielded excellent results”.
In India substantial increases were seen in the number of passengers carried to and from Mumbai, Calicut, Goa, Madras, and Bangalore. SriLankan last November became the first foreign carrier to operate 100 flights per week to India and now serves 11 cities there. During 2007 it launched services to Coimbatore and increased services to several other cities, including its double-daily service to Mumbai.
“It was not an easy year since some tourists were deterred by strong travel advisories issued by key tourist generating countries. We also faced increased competition from other carriers in India, the Middle East and Southeast Asia,” said Gunawardena.
The airline’s other traditional markets continued to be rock solid, including London, Male, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Trivandrum, Trichy, and Cochin. All of the airline’s offices contributed by supporting sales efforts throughout the route network.
Services to new destinations launched in 2007 – Coimbatore and Jeddah – lived up to their potential, and more is expected from them in the future.
Apart from carrying travellers to and from Sri Lanka, the airline has focused on turning Colombo into a hub in the region, connecting East and West and serving as the gateway to India.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines considers suspending domestic routes
Biman Bangladesh Airlines is considering suspending all domestic routes, with the exception of Dhaka-Sylhet and Dhaka-Chittagong, which will remain on the network due to their large expatriate population.
The move is part of the carrier’s turnaround plan, which focuses on rebuilding its international network. According to a member of Biman’s Fleet Committee, Capt Shah Alam, “we don't want to enter in that saturated and small market; we want to do our core business and that is operating international flights".
Over the years Biman has been forced to discontinue or reduce frequency on many of its international services due to aircraft shortages. With its latest aircraft order, the carrier hopes to resume operations on its profitable international routes.
As domestic competition in Bangladesh heats up, the government is expected to deregulate the domestic market for private airlines. Several local entrants launching operations this year, including United Airways, Best Air, Royal Bengal and A2Air.
Biman reported a USD100 million net loss in the 12 months ended 30-Jun-07, due to rising fuel prices and weak passenger demand. The government has since launched an emergency rescue plan, which included transforming the carrier as a public company in Jul-07 and retrenching a large number of staff. Biman currently operates to 19 international destinations with a fleet of 12 aircraft, although only eight are currently in service.
Dubai International Airport installs new landing system
A new category of Instrument Landing System became fully operational following certification from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on 10 March 2008 at . Diversion and delay of flights due to fog are now a thing of the past at Dubai International Airport. A major upgrade over the Cat I and Cat II systems that were in use at Dubai International Airport, the newly certified CAT IIIA Instrument Landing System (ILS) enables a pilot to land even with visibility as low as 200 metres. Dubai international airport is the first CAT IIIA compliant airport in the region, including the subcontinent.
Welcoming the certification from GCAA, UAE's federal authority, HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), and Chairman of Dubai Airports, said 'It is a big achievement for Dubai Airports and will positively impact our operations at Dubai International. Disruption or diversion of flights due to low visibility is a major inconvenience for passengers and a logistical challenge for the airlines and airports alike. The new system will translate into great benefits for the passengers, airlines and Dubai International airport by enabling low visibility operations.'
The new category of landing system has been in use for some time at Dubai International according to Mohammed Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and CEO of Air Traffic Services (ATS).
'We have been using the system for some time now; as a prerequisite for the certification from the federal authority we have tested it for 6,000 hours,' he said.
He added: 'This upgrade was part of our plans for Dubai International for a long time now but could not have been fully operational due to activities connected to the expansion project.'
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said that it is part of the company's strategy to constantly work on enhancing our efficiency to benefit our customers. 'This technological upgrade certainly will go a long way in ensuring better services for our customers, both airlines and passengers,' he said.
Griffiths added: 'We will continue to assess our systems to determine the best possible upgrade requirements. While the new system, Cat IIIA, is fully operational, we will be working over the next few months to upgrade it to Cat IIIB. We intend to accomplish this by October 2008,' he said.
According to Griffiths, Dubai does not need a Cat IIIC which is a category that allows landing even when visibility is zero. 'UAE experiences fog for only two or three weeks a year and it is not as dense as in Europe. The next upgrade (Cat IIIB) will enable us to operate in visibility of 50 metres,' he explained. About Dubai Airports
Dubai Airports owns and manages Dubai International Airport and the upcoming Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International.
A319 joins Royal Jordanian fleet
The newly manufactured Airbus A319 brings a new standard of amenities and comfort to RJ passengers traveling to medium-range destinations in Europe, the Indian Subcontinent and the Arab Gulf. The airliner is distinguished by modern features, such as spacious seat pitch and state-of-the-art audio channels and personal video screens available for each passenger on economy and crown classes.
This type of aircraft, belonging to the Airbus A320 family, will boost the company's services, enabling it to better serve the regional and medium-haul route network. It will also augment RJ's existing fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft assimilated in the fleet in the past two years.
The second Airbus A319 will join the fleet in October this year and the remaining two in February and March next year. Four other planes will be introduced during the coming three months; two Airbus A321 and two Embraer 175, whereas two Airbus A321 will be phased out. The number of aircraft will reach 30 in June this year, reaching over 55 worldwide destinations.
The airline designated names of Jordanian cities on its new aircraft that joined the fleet in the last two years and the ones that will join as a part of its mission of promoting Jordan to the world.
CAAS to expand Singapore’s Budget Terminal
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) announced plans to invest USD7.2 million expanding Singapore’s Budget Terminal (BT). The expansion project, which will commence from Jul-08 to early 2009, will increase Singapore’s Budget Terminal’s handling capacity from the current 2.7 million passengers p/a to 7 million. In addition, the expansion will also increase the floor area of the terminal from 25,000 sqm to 28,700 sqm.
After almost two years of operations, the terminal’s expansion is necessary to keep ahead of the air traffic growth at the BT. In 2007, 1.77 million passengers passed through the BT. In all, the BT has served about 2.9 million passengers since it opened on 26 March 2006. The number of weekly scheduled flights at the BT, operated by Tiger Airways and Philippines-based carrier, Cebu Pacific Air, has also increased from 124 in Mar-06 to 248 in Feb-08, representing a growth of 100%.
CAAS Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lim Kim Choon, said " When we first decided to build the Budget Terminal about three years ago, no one could accurately predict the success of low cost travel in this region. With increased air transport liberalisation in this region, airlines, including low cost carriers, have now greater opportunities to rapidly expand their air network and increase their flight operations.”
The expansion project will include the addition of seven check-in counters as well as the installation of additional baggage handling equipment. Three more passenger boarding gates will be constructed, bringing the total number of boarding gates to ten.
Mr Lim Kim Choon added, “The expansion of the Budget Terminal to increase its handling capacity is timely as we expect passenger traffic to increase further with ASEAN’s goal to remove all restrictions on passenger flights between ASEAN capitals by Dec-08. The increased handling capacity can last us through the next few years.”
PATA honours IHG'S Low
BANGKOK – The 2008 Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Face of the Future is Kenneth Low, Director Strategy, Asia Pacific for the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG).
Low will receive his honour during the PATA Foundation Gala Dinner at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka on April 6.
Based in Singapore, Low, who just turned 35, is responsible for planning IHG's growth strategy in Asia Pacific, with a particular focus on the key markets of China (PRC), India and Japan.
He joined IHG in November 2005 from Abacus International, where he was Head of Corporate Planning and Development.
Announcing the award, PATA President and CEO Peter de Jong said Low was a high achiever who had risen rapidly though the management ranks of two highly successful travel companies.
Low was chosen from an impressive shortlist of candidates from private and public sector organisations across the region.
AIRPORT NEWS
China clamps down on airport security
Right: New measures are designed to increase security on domestic flights ahead of this summer's Olympic Games
New measures to tighten airport security have been introduced today (Thursday 13 March 2008) by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). The measures are designed to prevent a recurrence of a failed attack last Friday in which a terrorist attempted to set fire to a plane en-route to Beijing using petroleum carried onto the plane.
Passengers are now prohibited from carrying any liquids on domestic flights in China. The prohibition follows 12 months after the CAAC introduced restrictions, which permitted domestic passengers to carry up to one litre of liquid (not including alcohol), providing it was opened for inspection by security officials. Under these former restrictions, any additional liquids had to be checked-in.
CAAC has also announced a crackdown on security procedures in VIP lounges at some airports in China. The administration is concerned that some VIP lounges allow passengers to pay to board planes with minimal security checks. It is threatening to close any lounges that fail to comply.
There are no changes to the security restrictions for passengers who are departing from China on international or regional flights. They will continue to be allowed to take up to 100 millilitres of liquid in each container and the container in which the liquid is kept must be put in a small transparent plastic bag that can be re-sealed. Any extra liquids must be delivered as luggage in a transparent plastic bag. International passengers who need to transfer between flights in China will be required to abide by these rules.
Zurich enjoys buoyant February
During February 2008 more than 1.5 million passengers passed through Zurich Airport, up 13.1% compared with February 2007.
The number of transfer passengers rose 13.3% to 512,738 in February and the number of local passengers (originating or departing from Zurich) rose by 13.7% to 1,019,453.
Zurich officials say the low cost market grew by 39.9% in February, raising its share of Zurich traffic to 10.3%.
Hanoi to grow by 2010
The Noi Bai International Airport in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi is to be expanded with a new passenger terminal, due to be finished in 2010. The country’s Civil Aviation Administration says the enlarged airport will have a capacity of 50 million passengers a year.
Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Sinh Hung says construction of the terminal should begin in October 2008 and will be finished within two years.
Have bones will travel
Right: Munich customs officers found some of the remains of a man in a sealed suitcase this weekWhen Munich customs officers asked two women to open their sealed suitcase this week, they discovered that the travellers, both in their 60s, had placed the skull and several bones of a man inside.
Flying to Italy via Munich from Brazil, the women had brought along the man’s remains to fulfil his wish of finding his final resting place in Italy. According to documents, he had died 11 years earlier in Sao Paolo.
While the Bavarian officials were understandably surprised about the mode of transport, they did allow the women to continue their journey as they had all the necessary documents to bring the bones to Naples.
Branson plans V Australia launch
Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson will visit Australia at the end of this month to reveal details of the much-anticipated V Australia operation. V Australia is the new airline formed to operate trans-Pacific services between Australia and the US, and potentially other routes.
The trans-Pacific route has been virtually controlled by Qantas until last month’s signing of an open skies agreement between the US and Australian governments. United Airlines offers a lower-quality service on the route but the majority of passengers are flown by Qantas.
Branson’s participation in the public launch of the airline’s plans will ensure optimum publicity for the new airline. He is also expected to announce a new Australian airport to be served by Malaysia-based AirAsia X in which Virgin Group has a 20% stake. That airline has been evaluating offers from Melbourne International Airport and Avalon, near Geelong, Victoria.
Branson will visit Melbourne on 27 March with AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes and AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani.
Lufthansa refurbishes network lounges
Lufthansa has revealed plans to invest approximately US$233 million (Euros 150 million) to refurbish lounges at airports throughout its global route network over the next six years.
“We never stop working on expanding our position as a premium carrier and lounges are a key element of our product philosophy,” says Thierry Antinori, executive vice president marketing and sales at Lufthansa Passenger Airlines.
Recently Lufthansa opened new Senator and Business lounges at Cologne/Bonn Airport. Centrally located within the new departures and arrivals concourse, the lounges encompass 800m² and accommodate 170 guests.
At Hamburg Airport, lounges are currently undergoing expansion and renovation and are due to be completed this summer.
In the new Terminal area at Frankfurt Airport a completely new lounge concept is being developed between gates C and D. Passengers will board flights from two levels, with the upper level reserved exclusively for First- and Business-Class travellers as well as status customers. A new Senator Lounge with priority gate connections and a new Lufthansa Business lounge are also being planned.
Enhancements are not confined to Germany. Improvements are being made to Lufthansa lounges throughout the world, including the expansion and modernisation of the lounges at New York’s John F Kennedy Airport where a new third level that is dedicated exclusively for First-Class and HON Circle customers is scheduled to open in late 2008.
At Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, the renovation and expansion of existing facilities is due to be completed in spring 2009. Renovations and new projects are also planned at other international airports, among them Mumbai.
Cocaine seized at Vienna
Police at Vienna’s Schwechat International Airport have seized more than 20 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of US$3 million.Authorities say the drugs were intercepted on 17 January and that three suspects, two men and a woman from the Dominican Republic, were arrested. Details of the case were withheld until this week.
Police say the cocaine was hidden in bottles and containers.
Singapore Airlines receives third A380
With the addition of this third aircraft into its fleet, Singapore Airlines will commence A380 flights to London Heathrow airport on Tuesday 18 March 2008. This will be the first-ever A380 commercial service to Europe.
Fitted with the luxurious Singapore Airlines Suites, the award-winning 4-abreast Business Class and a new, more comfortable Economy cabin, the A380 allows Singapore Airlines customers to travel to London in unprecedented comfort, space and luxury.
Scheduled daily services to London (SQ322) will commence from the evening of Tuesday 18 March, and on SQ 317 for the return leg from 19 March. Singapore Airlines currently operates daily A380 scheduled flights between Singapore and Sydney.
Singapore Airlines is the first to fly the A380, and currently the only airline in the world operating the aircraft. The Airline has firm orders for a further 16 A380s and options on six more.
Emirates launches flights to Los Angeles
Emirates is set to expand its network even further this year with the start of services to the West Coast of the U.S. On 1st September 2008 Emirates will open its third U.S. gateway with non-stop flights between the Californian city of Los Angeles and Dubai.
Operating daily, the service will be the first non-stop operation connecting Dubai, the Gateway to Arabia to L.A., the Gateway to Hollywood. Emirates will fly its Boeing 777-200LR on the route, offering 266 seats in a three class configuration.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “Los Angeles represents Emirates’ commitment to the American market. We have evaluated the U.S. for expansion opportunities and have carefully examined our existing services in Houston and New York- both of which have been very successful. We look forward to recreating this success by connecting Los Angeles to Dubai and beyond.”
Antonio Villaraigosa, Mayor of Los Angeles said: “I am pleased that Emirates has chosen L.A. as its U.S. West Coast gateway and I look forward to the start of service later this year. The route opens a new destination for business and leisure travellers in the Gulf region, a part of the world not previously served from Los Angeles. It will also enable travellers to reach every region of the world non-stop from LAX.”
The new service will operate out of the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport, (LAX).
L.A. is the fourth new destination that Emirates has announced it will be introducing in 2008. The airline has already announced its plans to start services to Cape Town on 30th March plus Calicut, India and Guangzhou, China, both on 1st July of this year. The new route joins Emirates’ growing network of American destinations including a double daily service to New York’s JFK International Airport and its daily service to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
SriLankan Airlines set to launch new Frequent Flyer Progam
SriLankan Airlines will be launching a new Frequent Flyer Program (FFP) offering rewards to all its loyal passengers, commencing April 1, 2008. The FFP, which will include a range of benefits, prizes and ways to spend earned air miles, will be unveiled soon.
"Our new frequent flyer program will have its own unique identity and logo and its membership will be open to passengers who fly SriLankan Airlines to any destination on our route network of 54 destinations,” said Mohamed Fazeel, Regional Manager of the Commercial Department who will be spearheading the new FFP.
The program will take into consideration the preferences of the airline’s passengers around the network and it will include a range of new and improved offers to provide more convenience and benefits to frequent flyers said the carrier.
All current Skywards members holding mileage balances will have the option of transferring their miles to the new FFP.
All SriLankan Airlines’ Skywards members will continue their membership and rewards will continue to be available on Emirates flights and from other leisure and lifestyle partners. SriLankan’s agreement with Skywards will expire with the ending of the airline’s management contract with Emirates on 31 March 2008. Nevertheless, SriLankan Airlines will continue to honour Skywards reward tickets, for a further period of 12 months commencing 31st March 2008.
Jet Aviation Handling rebranded as Dnata Switzerland
Dnata, the airport services provider in the Middle East, welcomed Jet Aviation Handling AG into the group as Dnata Switzerland AG. The rebranding of the company is the final part of the process to integrate the two companies following the acquisition of Jet Aviation Handling AG, the airport handling division of Swiss-based Jet Aviation Group, by Dnata in November 2007.
Stewart Angus, Divisional Senior Vice President of Dnata, said: "Jet Aviation Handling has always provided quality service to its airline customers in Switzerland and we are very proud to be able to include Dnata Switzerland AG, as part of our global business. Dnata is committed to developing the strengths of Dnata Switzerland AG, and ensuring that its airline customers continue to enjoy the highest possible levels of customer service.”
Urs Zorn, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Jet Aviation Handling AG said: "We are proud to be joining the global Dnata group and look forward to carrying the name Dnata Switzerland AG forward as we embark on this new stage in our company’s history. These changes do not affect the underlying focus and direction of the company, which remains to provide the highest levels of service to our customer airlines in Zurich and Geneva.”
The former Jet Aviation corporate identity will be updated to reflect the change to Dnata Switzerland AG. The logo, uniforms, airport vehicles and sign-posting at Zurich and Geneva airports will receive a fresh new look and contact numbers and e-mail addresses will be updated accordingly.
ASTA survey determines most popular second honeymoon destinations
In its annual “Hot Spots for Summer” survey, ASTA polled 585 travel agency owners and managers to determine the most popular second honeymoon destinations and uncover other emerging travel trends for 2008.
“Agents typically recognize travel trends long before anyone else,” said Cheryl Hudak, CTC, ASTA president and CEO. “However, ASTA conducts these surveys to keep all of its members informed, especially those who specialize in one or two specific areas of travel and are generally less affected by trends. When agents are aware of current consumer demands, they are able to prepare and assist any client regardless of their travel expertise.”
According to respondents, Hawaii was the most popular second honeymoon destination with 24.4 percent share of the total response. While Hawaii can be more expensive than other destinations, respondents reported that money was less of a determining factor for couples who were taking a second honeymoon destination, compared to couples taking their first.
Cruising was ranked number two, with 11.6 percent share of the total response. Respondents routinely book cruises for second honeymooners because this type of vacation offers variety, convenience and, on-shore excursions, dining and shopping excluded, an all-inclusive package. The third most popular second honeymoon destination, the Caribbean, also offers travelers endless options due to the number of islands that comprise this tourist-friendly oasis.
Jamaica and Cancun, ranked fourth and fifth respectively, rounded out the top five most popular second honeymoon destinations. Although in the bottom half of the top 10, Europe, ranked number six, and Italy, ranked number seven, prove that interest in European vacations is still strong despite the current weakness of the US dollar. With 3.5 percent share of the total response, Mexico claimed the number eight position. Tahiti, with 3.2 percent, and St. Lucia, with 3.0 percent of the total response, fell into ninth and tenth place respectively.
DHS signs Visa Waiver Program agreements with Estonia and Latvia
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff signed yesterday (12 March) Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with Estonian Minister of Internal Affairs Juri Pihl in Tallinn, Estonia, and with Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maris Riekstins in Riga, Latvia. The agreements outline security enhancements that put both countries on the path toward visa-free travel to the U.S., and possible designation as VWP members later this year.
"I commend Estonia and Latvia for their commitment to these security measures, and for the leadership they demonstrate to other aspiring partners," said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. "We have a common adversary whose stated intent is to strike at our freedoms, wherever and whenever they can. But, we also have a common resolve and vision with the European Union and its member states to enhance security in a way that facilitates travel for our citizens. We respect European Union law and will continue to work collaboratively, particularly in the areas where the European Union has unique authority, as we enter into agreements with aspiring Visa Waiver Program countries."
The VWP has been authorized by U.S. law for over 20 years, with 27 current members from Asia and Europe. The U.S. Congress authorized DHS in August 2007 to reform the VWP and strengthen the security arrangements required of existing participant countries, as well as to expand the conditions for aspiring countries to join the program.
Among the security enhancements required, DHS will establish an electronic system of travel authorization for air passengers. VWP travelers will be asked to provide some basic information online, which will generate an authorization number for travel. DHS will announce complete details on how the authorization systems will work, and when they will begin, later this year. VWP partners also must ensure reporting of lost and stolen passports to avoid fraudulent use and enhance security measures for airports that originate flights to the U.S., to include permitting air marshals on certain flights.
The department signed the first enhanced VWP agreement with the Czech Republic on Feb. 26, 2008, who committed to meeting the new requirements of the program, to include an electronic system of travel authorization.
March 03, 2008
Qatar Airways Installs Additional Instant Frequent Flyer Enrolment Kiosks At Doha International Airport
Doha, QATAR – Qatar Airways has invested in additional frequent flyer enrolment kiosks at Doha International Airport as part of its commitment to provide more self-service capabilities to Privilege Club loyalty members.
Privilege Club Enrolment Kiosk at Qatar Airways Premium Terminal in Doha
Each of the four airport lounges now has a kiosk, which allows passengers to enrol into the airline’s frequent flyer programme and receive their personalised and magnetically encoded membership card within seconds of enrolling.
New kiosks are now available at the recently refurbished Gold and Silver Frequent Flyer Lounges in the main terminal, in addition to the First and Business Class sections of Qatar Airways’ state-of-the-art Premium Terminal.
In 2006, Qatar Airways made headlines when it introduced the world’s first instant loyalty card dispensing kiosk at Doha International Airport, which earned privilege Club the FFP Gold Innovation Award in Vancouver last year.
The machines are modern and designed to save passengers the hassle of going through the traditional sign-up process, which involves membership cards being sent by mail. So passengers from around the world checking-in or transiting at Doha International Airport and using any of the four airport lounges, will be able to enrol on the spot and receive their burgundy card instantly.
Using simple touch screen technology, the kiosk enables Qatar Airways’ First and Business Class passengers as well as its frequent travellers using the lounges, and who are not already members, to enrol into Privilege Club and receive a 500 Qmiles welcome bonus.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said the additional kiosks were yet another service-led initiative from the airline to bring more convenience and advantages to its highly valued passengers.
“Qatar Airways is proud to be an innovator, and we are more than satisfied with the positive response of our passengers towards these enrolment kiosks,” he said.
“The Privilege Club enrolment kiosks enable passengers who are not already members to enrol easily, quickly and receive their loyalty card instantly. This is a unique feature, which we believe more and more passengers will take advantage of.”
Qatar Airways strongly believes in product innovations to meet the needs of passengers – and is now looking to invest in additional kiosks at other locations. The kiosks are provided by UK-based company Trident Loyalty Systems.
Since its launch in 2000, Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club has developed into one of the largest airline loyalty schemes in the Middle East and one of the most generous reward programmes. Last year, Privilege Club scooped an unprecedented eight accolades at the prestigious Freddie Awards in America.
Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of 60 Airbus and Boeing aircraft to 81 destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Indian Subcontinent, Far East and North America from Doha, the airline’s hub and capital of the State of Qatar.
Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club website gives members great benefits, including the ability to manage their accounts with ease. Through the Privilege Club website, www.qmiles.com members are able to log on to and check their account balance online, as well as book reward tickets for travel on Qatar Airways and partner airlines.
