DUBAI, U.A.E., 29th October 2007 - Emirates Airline today launched two new non-stop services: a six-a-week service to Ahmedabad, India, and a thrice-weekly service to Toronto, Canada – marking a simultaneous expansion of its global route network eastwards and westwards from Dubai. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, travelled on the inaugural flight to Toronto, together with VIP guests HE Sara Hradecky, Canadian Ambassador in the UAE; and HE Hassan Al Suwaidi, UAE Ambassador in Canada. Representing Emirates on the airline's first flight to Ahmedabad were: Nabil Sultan, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations - Gulf Middle East and Iran; and Salem Obaidalla Vice President Commercial Operations - West Asia and Indian Ocean. The Dubai-Toronto service heralds Emirates’ second destination in North America after New York; while the Ahmedabad service represents Emirates’ ninth gateway in India, strengthening the airline’s connections between Dubai and the subcontinent. Sheikh Ahmed said: “Emirates is delighted to launch the keenly-anticipated flights to Ahmedabad and Toronto today, bringing to fruition many months of work preparing for the start of services to both cities. We are glad to be able to grow our route network, thus expanding the number of travel options available to our customers around the world. “We are confident that both new Emirates services will be well-received by our customers, and we hope that the two new air connections forged today will be the harbinger of even closer ties for Dubai with Canada and India in the coming years.” On its Dubai-Toronto route, Emirates will operate its long-haul Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, offering 12 First Class, 42 Business Class and 304 Economy Class seats, with on-demand personal entertainment in all classes. To Ahmedabad, Emirates will operate a three-class configured Airbus A330-200 offering 12 First, 42 Business and 183 Economy Class seats, and its Boeing 777-200 in a two-class configuration, offering 42 Business and 304 Economy Class seats. Both offer industry-leading comforts including ergonomically designed seats, and personal entertainment systems in all classes. With the launch of flights to Ahmedabad and Toronto, Emirates Airline now serves 87 passenger destinations across six continents. Its global route network currently spans 97 cities in 61 countries including cargo-only destinations. This year, Emirates has introduced passenger services to Venice, Newcastle and Sao Paulo, and it will soon start services to Houston in December. DUBAI, U.A.E., 28th October 2007 – Starting today, Emirates, one of the fastest-growing international carriers will introduce an additional daily flight to Mumbai, offering passengers a second morning departure to India’s commercial hub and boosting the weekly service to 28 flights per week. The Dubai-based airline has been steadily building up its presence in India owing to escalating demand for air travel triggered by the country’s burgeoning economy. Earlier this year, Emirates enhanced its existing 19-flights-per-week Mumbai service with the launch of two additional frequencies, taking the weekly total to 21 flights. The airline also commenced a double-daily service to Chennai, and added three additional flights each to Cochin and Hyderabad. Emirates flight EK 506, an Airbus A330 aircraft offering 12 First, 42 Business and 183 Economy class seats, and 17 tonnes of cargo capacity per week per direction, will depart Dubai at 09:30 hours every day of the week, touching down at Mumbai at 13:45 hours. Return flight EK 507 will take off from Mumbai at 15:15 hours and arrive in Dubai at 17:00 hours. The fourth daily service expands the current morning, afternoon and late night departures from Dubai to Mumbai. Salem Obaidalla, Emirates Vice President, Commercial Operations West Asia & Indian Ocean said: “The growth of Emirates services to and from Mumbai has been market-driven. At every stage the increases we have introduced have been matched by higher and higher passenger levels and we are delighted to now offer our customers the convenience of this additional frequency.” “The fourth daily flight will improve connectivity between the two commerce and trade hubs, and provide travellers with more flexible options. I am confident the new service will receive a rousing welcome from our passengers and travel trade partners.” Emirates currently operates 92 flights per week to eight Indian gateways – Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kolkata and Bangalore. The airline will strengthen its Indian footprint with the launch of six flights per week to Ahmedabad, effective 29th October.
Sheikh Ahmed also leads a delegation of senior Emirates executives to Toronto, comprising: Ghaith Al Ghaith, Executive Vice President Commercial Operations Worldwide; Ali Mubarak Al Soori, Divisional Senior Vice President Chairman's Office, Facilities, Projects Management and Procurement and Logistics (Non-Airline); Mike Simon, Divisional Senior Vice President Corporate Communications; and Peter Sedgeley, Senior Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations.
October 29, 2007
Emirates Launches Ahmedabad and Toronto services
Air France Strike Continues After Weekend Of Chaos
Cabin crew members at Air France said they would continue with a strike that brought misery to thousands of travelers at Paris airports over the weekend.
The company said it expected "major costs" as a result of the dispute.
"The cost is very important," Air France Chief Operating Officer Pierre-Henri Gourgeon told French TV station LCI. He added there were no precise estimates at the moment for what the financial cost might be.
A joint statement by various trade unions representing more than 60 percent of Air France flight attendants said the strike would go on until midnight, local time, on October 29.
The strike began on October 25. The dispute centers on renegotiating a framework agreement on salaries and working conditions that is due to expire at the end of 2007.
The situation became serious enough for the French government to intervene over the weekend.
Transport Minister Dominique Bussereau issued a statement demanding a speedy resolution to the affair and Bussereau himself went to Paris Orly Airport on Sunday to assess the situation.
"I have come to see how the passengers are getting on," he told TV reporters at the airport.
The strike has affected between 30 and 40 percent of flights, causing major disruption at airports with many French families due to leave for school half-term holidays.
Talks between management and trade union members broke down over the weekend. Air France reiterated it was open to further negotiations and the airline has warned that the strike could have an adverse financial impact on the company.
Air France said it operated around 65 percent of flights on Saturday. It expected to operate more than 60 percent of flights on Sunday and at least 70 percent of flights on Monday.
It said it had run 71 percent of flights on Sunday morning.
Air France is part of the Air France KLM group, the world's largest airline by revenue. The French state holds around 18 percent of the Air France KLM share capital.
SAS Counts Cost Of Dash 8 Cancellations
SAS cancelled more than 60 flights on Monday after a third plane from its fleet of Dash 8 Q400s crash-landed over the weekend following two similar incidents in September.
"An early estimate of the negative impact on the SAS Group's result is 300-400 million kronor for the remaining part of the year," the airline said in a statement.
The airline said it would permanently stop using its fleet of 27 Dash 8 Q400s after Saturday's crash-landing in Copenhagen.
No one was seriously injured in any of the three incidents, which all involved problems with landing gear.
The airline has already said it would seek compensation totaling about SEK500 million kronor (USD$78 million) from Bombardier relating to cancellations after the first two Dash 8 incidents, one in Denmark and one in Lithuania, which led to hundreds of flights being cancelled.
A spokesman for the airline, half of which is owned by Sweden, Norway and Denmark, said a total number of flights "in the 50s" from Denmark had been cancelled on Monday, plus nine from Norway.
An SAS statement said eight flights from Sweden had been cancelled.
AIRPORT NEWS
Taiwanese ‘air city’
Speaking at a news conference in the Legislative Yuan, Taoyuan County Commissioner Chu Li-lun Chu said that the 30-year-old airport – formerly known as the Chiang Kai-shek International Airport – needs to sharpen its competitiveness as its ranking has dropped to 85th place among the world’s airports.
The airport must be made into a legally and professionally incorporated compound comprising a multinational business operations hub, free-trade zone, warehousing and distribution facilities, exhibition centres, tourism hotels, shopping malls and high-tech science park. The development will help stop the airport being shunted aside and again become globally competitive, Chu said.
Chu said he has crafted a program to create a ‘Taoyuan Aviation Park’, to be located in a 6,150-hectare plot of land adjacent to the airport that could house eight different areas and estimated that the Taoyuan Air City project would attract US$37 billion in investment, create 80,000 jobs and eventually pull in revenues of US$ 20 billion a year.
To date, 113 legislators, half of the total number of lawmakers, have endorsed the bill, which was referred to the Legislative Yuan on Friday afternoon for screening.
First flight for Tibet airport
With an altitude of 4,290m, this Kangding Airport is the second highest airport in the world – the highest is Qamdo Bangda Airport, 4,300m above sea level. Due to its rough terrain and high altitudes, the western region of Sichuan was notorious for being difficult to access in ancient times. Li Bai, a famed poet from the Tang Dynasty (618-907), wrote that travelling in Shu State (present day Sichuan) was more difficult than going to heaven.
The construction of Kangding airport started in September 2006 with a total investment of US$133 million. The runway will be 4,000m long and able to land Boeing 737 and Airbus A319 series aircraft. The airport is designed to handle 330,000 passengers and 1,980 tonnes of cargo annually.
The airport is 38km from the Kangding city, which is seven hours’ drive from Chengdu city. After completion in May 2008, the travel time from Kangding to Chengdu will be cut to one hour. It will surely boom the tourist industry in the Ganzi area, which is famous for its wonderful natural scenery and attract more tourists from south-east Asia, Europe and the USA.
Tourism award for Belfast International
Belfast International Airport has been honoured with a top tourism award. The airport won the Special Achievement Award at the 2007 Northern Ireland Travel and Tourism Awards due in part to its rapid growth.
More than 40 direct flights now go from the airport to both North America and Europe, and Aer Lingus recently announced that it would develop a base at the airport, introducing a further nine routes.
John Doran, who is the managing director at Belfast International, said of the award: “Belfast International Airport provides passengers with the destinations they want to go to, when they want to go, all directly from their local airport.”
Gulf Air gets new Boeing 737-800
Gulf Air’s flight operations have received a further boost with the introduction of a new narrow-body aircraft to the airline’s fleet. “The Boeing 737-800, which joined the airline’s fleet, will enhance our capacity to meet our winter needs,” says Gulf Air Board Chairman Mahmood Al Kooheji.
“We want Gulf Air to be the airline of choice and this addition will further boost the operational efficiency of Bahrain’s flag carrier,” says Mr. Al Kooheji, adding that another Boeing 737-800 will join the fleet next month.
“As expected, our newly revamped network is already reaping its benefits and these new aircraft will further complement Gulf Air’s hub and spoke operations from Bahrain.”
October 27, 2007
Plane lands safely after bomb hoax
Dubai: A Malaysian Airline plane grounded in Karachi after a bomb threat, arrived safely in Dubai late Thursday after it was found to be a hoax, the airline manager here said.
The flight had left Kuala Lumpur and transited in Karachi, where airport security received a bomb threat, said Halimy Mahmoud, regional manager of the airline. The plane was inspected and it was determined the threat was a hoax, he said.
Clearancet
The flight arrived in Dubai on Thursday at 10:15pm after being delayed for five hours.
After receiving clearance from Dubai Airport, it left for Kuala Lumpur, transiting again through Karachi. Mahmoud said no problems were reported in Karachi on the return flight.
He said this was the first bomb threat targeting a foreign carrier in Pakistan. Previous threats had targeted Pakistan International Airlines.
Malaysian Airlines doubted that this incident would affect its operations or affect visitors to Malay-sia, which is trying to draw more tourists to celebrate the country's 50th anniversary of independence.
Jet unveils Brussels luxury lounge
Above and below: Views of Jet Airways' new first- and premiere-class lounge at Brussels Airport
Indian airline Jet Airways has today inaugurated a new lounge at Brussels Airport. A Hindu priest blessed the lounge before it was officially opened by Belgium’s deputy Prime Minister Freya van den Bossche.
“The Jet Airways lounge is arguably one of the finest in the world. No effort has been spared to give our passengers facilities and comfort in a luxurious setting,” says Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal.
Last spring, Jet Airways took the decision to set up a European hub at Brussels Airport in close cooperation with Brussels Airlines. The hub offers passengers the opportunity to fly to India or North America with Jet Airways, while feeder flights within Europe are operated by Brussels Airlines.
Flybe opens four new airport lounges
Flybe, which claims to be Europe’s largest regional airline, has opened new executive lounges at Manchester, Exeter, Edinburgh and Glasgow airports and refurbished its existing lounge at Jersey. The new lounges boast panoramic views of the airport runways, plasma screen TV, work stations, cafe lounge seating area and refreshments. WiFi facilities will be available soon.
Ben-Gurion passenger tax set to soar
Airport tax at Ben-Gurion International Airport will rise by more than 50% next year to boost the airport’s security budget and allow improvements to infrastructure and technology. The Israel Airports Authority says the per-passenger tax will rise from US$13 to at least US$20.
Transportation Ministry director general Gideon Siterman claims the new, higher, airport tax will still be among the world’s lowest.
“We want to improve our service,” he says. “Today, the tax is US$13, and it was last raised in April 1994. Compare it to Heathrow in London. There, British citizens pay about US$80 and Israelis pay US$120,” Siterman says.
Hotel planned for Belfast City Airport
Plans have been revealed to build a hotel close to the terminal at Belfast City Airport, probably on the site of the short stay car park. A formal planning application will be made early next year. A spokesman says the airport will continue to explore commercial development in selected areas of its site despite recent objections from neighbouring residents opposed to development.
Vienna expands terminal to meet traffic growth
Above: Expansion of Vienna's terminal will add 63 check-in counters and 17 new pier positions at the airport
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is expanding its existing terminal facilities to cope with the growth in passenger numbers and to separate Schengen and non-Schengen traffic. The airport recorded double-digit growth in traffic during September, increasing its passenger numbers by 10.7% to 1.8 million. Passenger traffic (scheduled and charter flights) to eastern Europe grew particularly strongly, up 23.1% compared with the same month last year.
During the first nine months of the year, the number of passengers handled by the airport rose 9.4% to 14 million and transfers increased by 6.1%.
Central to the capacity expansion programme will be the VIE-Skylink terminal, which is under construction and due to open in spring 2009. The VIE-Skylink terminal is designed to be flexible, allowing the airport to expand capacity as required. It will add 63 check-in counters to the airport, as well as 17 new pier positions, 52 shops and 3,500m² of food outlets.
Designed to maintain VIE’s one-roof concept, the VIE-Skylink terminal and the new pier allow the airport to guarantee airlines a minimum connecting time of 25-30 minutes.
VIE handled 16.9 million passengers in 2006 and the VIE-Skylink terminal will raise capacity to 18 million passengers initially, rising to 20 million by 2010.
China predicts doubling of air traffic in three years
Top Chinese officials predict the country’s aviation industry will grow at a record rate over the next three years, effectively doubling in size during that period.
“The industry should grow at about 14% a year between now and 2010,” says Sha Hongjiang, deputy director of the planning and development department in the country’s General Administration of Civil Aviation.
Three factors are driving this growth: the Beijing Olympics next year, and the World Expo in Shanghai and Asian Games in Guangzhou, both in 2010.
Speaking yesterday at a two-day forum, organised by the China Air Transport Association and China Civil Airports Association, Sha said that by 2010 China’s annual passenger transport capacity will double to 270 million and the number of airports will increase to 186 from the current 147.
Private and foreign funding will be encouraged in the air cargo sector, added Sha, especially in the central and western parts of China.
He told delegates that challenges remain to future growth, including insufficient infrastructure, relatively poor airport management and the strict control of airspace.
AIRPORT NEWS
Pudong goes green with second phase expansion
Above: Environmental measures have informed the design of Pudong International Airport's new development
Pudong International Airport is planning an environmentally friendly air traffic hub for the second phase of construction at the airport. The new building should slash energy consumption to half of what was originally envisaged.
Officials hope the project will save about 130,000,000kW/h of electricity each year after the project, cutting the airport's annual energy consumption to US$20 (Yuan 150) per cubic metre. Payback on the US$13.33 million (Yuan 100 million) energy-saving project is expected within eight years.
Designers will include a series of ventilation holes on four sides of the terminal to make use of the high wind pressure around the airport to provide natural ventilation. The airport’s air conditioning system will be supplemented by two large steel water holders in the airport’s energy centre, which are cooled to freeze the water at night and used for cooling during the day.
Designers say water from the river around the airport will be treated and recycled for the terminal's toilet flushing and car washing operations.
These measures are expected to reduce tap water usage by about 2.5 million tonnes per year, say project designers.
Four more airlines to join SIA at T3
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has made an offer to four airlines to move their operations to Singapore Changi Airport’s Terminal 3. The four airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Jet Airways, Qatar Airways and United Airlines, will join Singapore Airlines in operating from Terminal 3. Terminal 3, currently undergoing tests and trials, opens for flight operations on 9 January 2008.
The decision to offer the four airlines to move their operations to Terminal 3 was reached after careful and detailed assessments. CAAS had earlier written to all airlines at Changi Airport to check which airlines would be interested to be considered to operate from Terminal 3. Dialogues were also held with airlines to address their questions and concerns about moving their operations.
CAAS assessed the airlines’ interest to move to Terminal 3 based on the guiding principle of distributing capacity usage across all three terminals, so as to optimise the usage of airport capacity and facilities.
CAAS’ Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lim Kim Choon, said, “CAAS has made in-depth assessments of the airlines’ interest to move to Terminal 3. Our main aim is to optimise the usage of all three main terminals, which will provide capacity for airlines at each terminal to grow their operations. The four new airlines moving their operations to Terminal 3 will also enable Changi Airport to spread out usage of the three terminals in a balanced manner.”
Mr Lim added, “We look forward to welcoming the new airlines at Terminal 3 and Share their excitement about commencing flight operations at the new terminal.”
As at 1 October 2007, Changi Airport is served by 81 airlines operating some 4,220 weekly scheduled flights to 192 cities in 59 countries.
Online travel agents in China challenge conventional agencies
With nearly seven in 10 Chinese leisure travellers accessing destination websites, and about six in 10 using online travel discussion forums to source information, travel operators and tourism promotional bodies will need an effective Internet presence to capture the opportunities presented by Chinese outbound tourism, according to a new research study conducted by The Nielsen Company in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
The new China Outbound Travel Monitor 2007 reveals that traditional travel agents rank only second behind online sources (63%) as the most popular source of information for potential travellers while the use of traditional media is found to be much lower (40%) for newspapers and magazines.
Conducted in October 2007, via a combination of telephone and online interviews, the Monitor surveyed 1,500 travellers in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, about their behaviour, attitudes and opinions of various destinations and provides insights into their decision-making processes, information sourcing, booking choices, accommodation preferences and more.
The Monitor covers all outbound leisure and business trips taken over a 12-month period between 2006 and 2007. Findings covering a further 23 cities throughout China will be released in early 2008.
"China`s outbound travel market is recognised as one of the key emerging outbound travel markets in the world and has evolved faster than any other Asian outbound market," said Dr Grace Pan, head of Travel & Leisure Research, The Nielsen Company, China.
"It is important for industry participants to keep a close eye on this lucrative market by tracking how Chinese travellers are evolving, in terms of their travel behaviour, travel motivations and satisfaction levels with tourism suppliers around the world."
PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre Director Mr John Koldowski said: "PATA is proud of our solid working relationship with The Nielsen Company. The Chinese outbound market in 2006 represented 35 million visits and continues to grow dramatically. We are confident this latest study will provide invaluable strategic insights, which in turn will help our members tap deeper into this burgeoning market."
Chinese outbound travellers from the three key cities are also turning to the Internet for their travel bookings. While the majority is currently using traditional travel agents (61%), Chinese travellers booking via online travel agents and hotel or transport operators websites (29% and 16% respectively) are on the rise, with their numbers expected to continue to increase.
"Given the astounding growth in China`s online population, the Internet will become the most efficient way to quickly understand consumers across China`s vast markets; marketers have to innovate to leverage the Internet to reach consumers as standard online advertising may not be adequate to capture the attention of the increasingly technology-savvy Chinese online population," continued Dr. Grace Pan.
Airbus A380 Completes First Commercial Flight
The Singapore Airlines' Airbus A380 superjumbo emerged from low-lying cloud to touch down on time on a damp Sydney afternoon, completing its flight from Singapore's Changi Airport.
Watched by hundreds of airport staff and aviation enthusiasts lining fences outside the airport, passengers on the inaugural Singapore Airlines (SIA) flight disembarked without a hitch.
The wet Sydney afternoon did nothing to dampen passengers' enthusiasm.
"It was great being a part of history," Michael Sim, who said he had paid about 30 percent more for his ticket than he would have on other flights, said.
Passengers paid between USD$560 and USD$100,380 for seats on the inaugural flight, after bidding for the tickets as part of a charity auction.
"It was a very smooth rise, and much quieter than the 747," Rainer Silhavy said.
During the flight, first-class passengers reclined in suites modeled on luxury yacht interiors and slumbered in proper beds which the airline said can be converted into doubles.
French design house Givenchy designed the bedding, while passengers ate off fine bone chinaware and drank from crystal glasses bought in by the same designer.
"Of course it was the first flight, so you get most of the first class treatment, I hope they keep that up," said Sim.
The A380 can seat more than 800 passengers although Singapore Airlines, the first airline to take delivery of the plane, has configured the aircraft to seat 470 over two decks, hoping to attract more top-paying passengers.
The superjumbo replaces the Boeing 747 as the world's largest airliner in service.
Hundreds of airport staff and passengers armed with camera phones earlier watched the take-off from Singapore.
"I'm a big airplane freak and I love everything about planes," said Ernest Graaff, an A380 passenger as he waited to board the jet among beaming SIA flight attendants.
Graaff paid USD$40,000 for two business-class tickets on the jet. "I'm excited about being a part of history."
The aircraft will return to Singapore on Friday.
"Flying the aircraft itself is like flying any other big jet," said pilot Robert Ting, who was one of four pilots and a crew of 30 aboard the flight.
"This aircraft comes with the latest technology... for example this is an aircraft where we come with an electronic flight plan whereby we will have electronic manuals on board, we no longer carry paper copies," he told local television.
SIA is to take delivery of another five A380s in 2008. The airline plans to introduce the A380 on long-haul flights to London, Tokyo and San Francisco from early 2008.
Competitive and sustainable destinations discussed at European Tourism Forum
Strategies to make EU tourism destinations competitive by embracing sustainability will be the focal point of discussions at the 6th European Tourism Forum, which takes place today (26 October 2007) in Portimao, Algarve in Portugal. At the occasion of this conference, European Commission Vice President Gunter Verheugen will present the awards to the winners of the European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) today. At the forum the European Commission will also present its new communication launching a strategy to foster sustainable and competitive tourism in Europe. It invites all stakeholders to strengthen the contribution of sustainable practices to making Europe the most attractive tourism destination.
Commission Vice-President Gunter Verheugen, responsible for enterprise and industry policy, said: "The success and growth potential of Europe as a tourist destination of the future will depend on our capacity to preserve and reinforce the assets of Europe through a combination of reasonable development and innovation of the tourism product."
Ministers of Tourism from Member States as well as Portuguese and European tourism authorities will participate in the European Tourism Forum to discuss the following topics:
- management and conservation of the natural and cultural heritage;
- management of resources and waste;
- sustainable management: corporate responsibility for competitiveness and job creation.
Take a holistic and integrated approach: All the various impacts of tourism should be taken into account in its planning and development.
Plan for the long term: Sustainable development is about taking care of the needs of future generations as well as our own. Long term planning requires the ability to sustain actions over time.
Achieve an appropriate pace and rhythm of development: The level, pace and shape of development should reflect and respect the character, resources and needs of host communities and destinations.
Involve all stakeholders: A sustainable approach requires widespread and committed participation in decision making and practical implementation by all those implicated in the outcome.
Use best available knowledge: Policies and actions should be informed by the latest and best knowledge available. Information on tourism trends and impacts, and skills and experience, should be shared across Europe. Minimise and manage risk: Where there is uncertainty about outcomes, there should be full evaluation and preventative action should be taken to avoid damage to the environment or society.
Reflect impacts in costs: Prices should reflect the real costs to society of consumption and production activities. This has implications not simply for pollution but for charging for the use of facilities that have significant management costs attached to them.
Set and respect limits, where appropriate: The carrying capacity of individual sites and wider areas should be recognised, with a readiness and ability to limit, where and when appropriate, the amount of tourism development and volume of tourist flows.
Undertake continuous monitoring: Sustainability is all about understanding impacts and being alert to them all the time, so that the necessary changes and improvements can be made.
The Commission`s Agenda aims at strengthening a voluntary and continuous process. It should be promoted by all tourism stakeholders in Europe: the different levels of government – local authorities, destination management organisations, regions, Member States – , businesses, tourists and all other bodies that can stimulate (trade unions, universities, research establishments, ...).
The Communication also contains a message of commitment by the Commission to this Agenda process. It builds the framework for the implementation of supportive European policies and actions in the tourism domain and in all other policy areas which exert an impact on the development of tourism and on its sustainability.
The European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) Awards Ceremony will also be held in Algarve on the 26th October, with the participation of the winning destinations from across Europe. Both the European Tourism Forum and the EDEN Awards Ceremony will be web-streamed live from Algarve on the 26th October.
British Airways To End UK Franchise Agreement
British Airways said on Thursday it was ending its UK franchise agreement with GB Airways from March 2008 and planned to start services on some of the routes operated under the franchise.
GB Airways earlier agreed to be bought by budget airline easyJet.
"UK franchises have outlived their purpose. EasyJet has made an offer to buy GB Airways and this has enabled us to end the franchise agreement early. We had an option to buy GB Airways but we rejected it," British Airways Chief Executive Willie Walsh said in a statement.
easyJet agrees to acquire GB Airways
easyJet announced that it has agreed to acquire the entire issued share capital of GB Airways Ltd, excluding its slots at Heathrow Airport, from the Bland Group Limited, for a cash consideration of £103.5 million. GB Airways is primarily a London Gatwick based point-to-point airline operating to destinations across Southern Europe and North Africa under a franchise agreement with British Airways PLC (“British Airways”).
It serves 31 destinations and operates 15 Airbus aircraft (9 A320s and 6 A321s) with an average age of 4.1 years, which are complementary to the easyJet fleet of 107 A319s. In total it operates 39 routes – 28 from Gatwick, 6 from Manchester, 5 from Heathrow.
Based upon its statutory accounts under UK GAAP for the year ended 31 March 2007, GB Airways reported profit before tax of £2.6 million and EBITDAR of £35 million on revenues of £250 million; it carried 2.8 million passengers; had gross assets of £182 million and net assets of £33 million.
The acquisition of GB Airways is consistent with easyJet’s expansion strategy and, importantly, strengthens its customer offering at Gatwick, the airline’s biggest base which has a highly attractive catchment area in London and South East England. The purchase adds valuable take-off and landing slots at Gatwick and the opportunity to accelerate easyJet’s route development. Following the acquisition, easyJet will operate 24% of Gatwick’s slots and will fly approximately 8 million passengers across 62 routes from Gatwick.
By Winter 2008/09, GB Airways will be fully consolidated into the easyJet business model, releasing cost savings. The acquisition will be positive to easyJet’s earnings per share and return on equity in easyJet’s current financial year, before one-off integration costs. easyJet anticipates GB Airways’ seat profitability reaching a similar level to its own at Gatwick in the first full financial year of operation.
Andy Harrison, Chief Executive of easyJet, said: “This is an acquisition which both strengthens our customer offering at London Gatwick, our biggest base with an attractive catchment area, and allows us to fully capitalise on the potential of the airport through a larger number of slots. The deal will bring major benefits to both easyJet and GB Airways customers, delivering a wider choice of destinations at easyJet’s great prices, and creating clear value for our shareholders. We expect the acquisition to be earnings positive in our current financial year and in the longer-term we will transition the GB Airways operation to easyJet’s cost base and operating margin levels. We expect to achieve both cost and revenue synergies as we expand our business at Gatwick.”
easyJet will co-operate with British Airways to ensure a smooth and orderly transition for customers. To this end GB Airways will continue to operate all routes under the British Airways brand until March 29th, 2008 after which flights will operate under the easyJet brand.
Kevin Hatton, Chief Executive of GB Airways, said: “The sale agreement brings to an end a period of uncertainty about the future direction of our company. We are pleased that the business and customer base built up by GB Airways will now be secured and strengthened under the ownership of the UK’s largest airline by passenger numbers, and one of the industry’s most powerful brands. We will fulfil our outstanding obligation as a franchise partner to British Airways and then look forward to a smooth operational merger with easyJet.”
The total consideration of £103.5 million is payable in cash of which £11.5 million is held in escrow as security for any claims under the acquisition agreement. GB Airways’ Heathrow slots will be exchanged under three separate agreements, the consideration for which will be passed on to the Bland Group (net of costs) on receipt. Completion is subject to the usual conditions, including approval from the relevant regulatory authorities. The transaction is expected to complete no later than 31st January 2008.
October 22, 2007
ExecuJet to double charter fleet
A full-service private aviation firm including sales, maintenance and management of Bombardier aircraft, ExecuJet also operates charter flights on behalf of the owners who want to offset the costs of ownership.
Mike Berry, managing director of ExecuJet Middle East, said its charter fleet would increase from three to eight aircraft over the next eight months as the market for private travel continues to expand.
"We're just seeing continued demand for charter services - in the last year, inquiries have more than doubled,"
According to the Middle East Business Aviation Association (Mebaa), demand for business jets is rising by 10 to 12 per cent a year. Currently, the market is worth $480 million for regional operators. This is projected to double in four years, climbing to $1 billion by 1010.
The new ExecuJet aircraft available for charter include two Lear 60XR light jets, two Challenger 850 wide-bodied business jets, and one challenger 605 wide-bodied business jet, all from Bombardier.
Overall, ExecuJet manages a fleet of 14 aircraft for private owners, and has secured contracts to grow to 20 by the first quarter of 2008. Out of its managed fleet, only aircraft registered out of the UAE are permitted for charter flights.
Profile
With its headquarters in
The company is a distributor for Bombardier aircraft such as the Learjet in
As part of its management services, ExecuJet also handles full flight planning, including clearances for over flights and landings in countries as far away as
AIRPORT NEWS
CDFG secures Guangzhou retail deal
According to the agreement, CDFG will renovate and expand the current duty-free area to 1,000m², adjust current product categories and introduce more top international branded goods, including perfume, cosmetics, and clothing from the likes of Hermes, Louis Vitton and Gucci. CDFG must also ensure that prices do not exceed those in Hong Kong and Singapore airports.
“The new duty-free programme will start with cosmetics and top fashion brands,” says Zhang Kejian, manager, Baiyun Airport Authority. “We believe that we will offer our passengers the best in world-class duty-free shopping after we introduce CDFG in Guangzhou Baiyun Airport.”
CDFG will work closely with the airport authority to promote Baiyun airport’s image as one of the world’s top airports. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport handled 26.22 million people in 2006, including four million overseas visitors.
CDFG has established over 150 retails shops in China, with sales of more than US$300 million a year at a wide range of airports, including Qingdao, Shenyang, Xiamen, Fuzhou, Xi’an, Haikou.
Hobby International named best small US airport
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport ranked first in the large airport category, while Kansas City International Airport ranked first in the medium airport category.
Jim Gaz, senior director of travel and entertainment for J.D. Power and Associates, says 61 US airports were included in this year’s study.
Kiosks boost demand for airport flu shots
Increasing numbers of US airports are offering flu shots to passengers in response to strong demand. Shots are now available at airports in Chicago, Atlanta, San Francisco, Denver, Newark, Las Vegas, and Vancouver, B.C.
According to John Zautcke, medical director of the year-round University of Illinois at Chicago-O’Hare Medical Clinic, a lot of people find the offering is convenient. This year the airport has made it more convenient still by offering the shots at kiosks near waiting areas, rather than at the airport clinic.
With the kiosks, O’Hare is administering about 2,400 shots a week. This compares with about 350 a week in previous years, when they were administered at the medical centre.
LaGuardia delays blamed on tomato juice
LaGuardia delays blamed on tomato juice
Security staff blamed long delays at the weekend at the American Airlines terminal at New York City’s LaGuardia Airport on spilled tomato juice.
The problems arose when a vendor working at the airport spilled tomato juice on one of the five x-ray machines in the terminal. With 20% of the security screening capacity out of action, queues built quickly.
A Transportation Safety Administration official confirmed the cause of the problem, but added, “That’s the risk you take when you deal with technology.”
It took almost six hours before the machine was brought back into service and the queues returned to normal.
Youtube executive to keynote HSMAI conference
Focusing on the most timely and critical issues related to travel Internet marketing, the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International’s (HSMAI) ninth Travel Internet Marketing Strategy Conference will delve into the hottest topics of the day: Social Media, eCommerce and Online Branding.
The day-long forum will be held on Monday, Dec. 3, 2007 in Phoenix, AZ, just prior to the HEDNA conference.
Addressing attendees with a keynote speech on “Leveraging the Social Media Medium” will be YouTube’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing Jordan Hoffner. Also delivering a keynote address on “Online Branding - Emerging Strategies in Search Intelligence” will be Mike Pusateri, Chairman, Vantage Strategy Consulting.
Additionally, Cindy Estis Green, Managing Partner, The Estis Group, will present “The New World of Social Media,” and a spirited group will debate “eCommerce Perspectives from Non-Travel Industry Experts.”
“Understanding this powerful, yet ever-evolving medium is mandatory for success in today’s marketplace,” states Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHA, president and CEO of HSMAI. “The strategy conference serves as a one-stop shop for the hottest topics and most critical matters related to travel Internet marketing.”
BBC Coast Series wins coveted Tourism Society award
The BBC Coast Series was awarded the 2007 Tourism Society Award at the 30th Annual Dinner on 18th October hosted by Lord Thurso MP in recognition of its contribution to tourism promotion. The Award, given to organisations or individuals that have made an exceptional contribution to the development of tourism in the United Kingdom, was presented at the Society`s Annual Dinner at the House of Commons by Society President Lord Thurso MP FTS.
Chris Wikeley FTS, Tourism Society Board Member who nominated the series said, "My fellow board members and I recognised that this programme did a great deal to promote the UK and its attractions thus stimulating the wish to travel within our own country and so support the tourism industry. It is doubtful that any of the tourism agencies could afford the cost of the prime time TV that is available to the tourism industry through a programme such as Coast."
Series Editor Gill Tierney on receiving the award commented "this is a tremendous honour for Coast. Our mission was simple; to celebrate the extraordinary diversity of our coastline and the incredible stories it has to tell. I think we just reminded people what it means to be an island nation."
Coast Series 1 travelled round the entire coastline of the UK in 13 episodes while two further series of 8 programmes each explored further afield, including the Republic of Ireland and many Scottish Islands.
Ruler of Dubai views emirate`s major projects
His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was the first person to officially view “The Gallery” – the advanced facility designed to promote DWTC’s major projects to the world.
The tour enabled His Highness to review progress on Dubai Exhibition City and Dubai Trade Centre District and to discuss the innovations that will attract some of the world’s most prominent business groups to Dubai.
“We were delighted that His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum was able to join us to view these exciting projects, which will make a significant contribution to the business and developmental goals of Dubai,” said Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre.
The Gallery is designed to host delegations and trade visitors from around the world.
Currently under construction, Dubai Trade Centre District, at the heart of Dubai next to Sheikh Zayed Road, is set to offer a purpose-built state-of-the-art convention destination and some of the highest grade office space in the region, supported by a boutique shopping district and a range of hotels. DWTC is already in discussion with a number of international companies who are eager to make it a location for their regional or global headquarters.
Dubai Exhibition City will be the first fully-integrated city designed to host events and major exhibitions. A wide range of organisers, as well as companies providing support services for events, have approached DWTC with a view to establishing a permanent base within the city. In addition, many organisers are in discussion with DWTC about hosting major events at Dubai Exhibition World, the world-class facility within the development.
“The Gallery will be an important tool for managing relations with the range of international businesses who are looking to be part of Dubai Trade Centre District and Dubai Exhibition City. DWTC is bringing something new to the real estate market with these developments and this facility will provide us with the right platform for dialogue with partners and future partners,” said Al Marri.
Raffles to manage historic hotel in Paris
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Raffles Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Royal Monceau Pte Ltd to manage the historic Le Royal Monceau hotel in Paris. The hotel will join Raffles Hotels & Resorts’ collection of luxury properties in winter 2008.
Le Royal Monceau is jointly owned by Alexandre Allard and Qatari developer, Barwa Real Estate, with Mr. Allard assuming majority ownership. Alexandre Allard is a well respected French entrepreneur, known for his association with luxury brands and his visionary ventures.
Le Royal Monceau is scheduled for refurbishment in 2008 and is greatly anticipated to re-open as a 21st century French masterpiece.
Raffles Hotels & Resorts will also introduce several environmentally friendly practices, such as the use of Hybrid cars, a solar energy heated swimming pool and recycling processes for water, when Le Royal Monceau makes its re-debut in 2008.
Le Royal Monceau will make a precious addition to Raffles Hotels & Resort`s collection of heritage properties, which includes Raffles Hotel Singapore, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh and Raffles Beijing Hotel, China.
Alexandre Allard, President Royal Monceau Pte Ltd. said, “Raffles Hotels & Resorts is renowned not only for its expertise in hospitality, service and culinary excellence, but also for its appreciation and respect for local culture. Under the Raffles management, Le Royal Monceau will be the epitome of gracious hospitality imbued with true Parisian spirit. We are very pleased to be working with Raffles, and have no doubt that discerning travellers to Paris will find Le Royal Monceau, a veritable Palace of the 21st century.”
“We are delighted to have been entrusted with this historic property, and to bring the Raffles name to this much sought-after destination. With its array of old and new world attractions, Paris continues to be the destination of choice for millions of visitors each year,” commented Bill Fatt, Chief Executive Officer, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International. “We look forward to working with our partners to fully refurbish and restore Le Royal Monceau to its original grandeur.”
Diana Ee-Tan, Managing Director, Raffles Hotels & Resorts added, “We have always wanted to extend the presence of Raffles to Paris, and we are thrilled that we now have this opportunity to be a part of this vibrant city. Le Royal Monceau will be distinguished by the heartfelt service, refined ambience and residential charm that Raffles hotels and resorts around the world are known for, to become the favoured home-away-from-home for privileged travellers to Paris.”
October 20, 2007
Angry protesters take over Bolivian airport
SANTA CRUZ, Bolivia, Oct 19 (Reuters) - Thousands of protesters stormed Bolivia's busiest airport on Friday as rightist opposition groups fought the government of President Evo Morales for control of the country's main air hub."An act of corruption does not justify sending the army," protest leader Branco Marinkovic told Reuters. Bolivia, South America's poorest country, is roughly split along ethnic and economic lines, with the Quechua and Aymara Indians concentrated in the Western highlands, while the eastern plains are home to the mixed-race minority.
At least 7,000 protesters shouting "This is ours" occupied airport hallways and waved flags on the runway. The government withdrew troops that had occupied the airport since Thursday, after airlines complained of corrupt practices.
The airport in the country's wealthy eastern region was shut down for part of Friday due to the protests but restarted operations in the afternoon, local media reported.
The military occupied the airport on government orders after several airlines, including American Airlines
Government officials say the levies were illegal, but Santa Cruz civic leaders argue that sending the army was out of proportion with the problem.
Anti-riot police dispersed protesters with tear gas when they tried to storm the airport on Thursday, but on Friday troops withdrew from the scene.
The dispute is the latest between Morales' leftist government and the right-wing opposition in the Santa Cruz province, the country's agricultural heartland.
Although Morales has strong support among poorer people in Santa Cruz the opposition is strong in the middle- and upper-class.
Many in the city of Santa Cruz, the largest in the country, complain Morales, Bolivia's first president of indigenous descent, is governing only for the majority Indian population, ignoring middle class demands.
Protests have been organized by Marinkovic's Santa Cruz Civic Committee, a powerful group created in the early 1950s to push for more autonomy for the region.
Its leaders want more independence from the Morales administration and a larger share of the country's energy revenues, which have swelled since Morales nationalized the natural-gas rich energy industry last year.
As the government moves forward with an ambitious land reform including plans to expropriate idle land, tensions between Morales and Santa Cruz are increasing. Marinkovic is one of the region's big land owners.
American held over bullets in luggage in Bolivia
LA PAZ, June 28 (Reuters) - An American woman was briefly detained in Bolivia after arriving on an American Airlines flight from Miami with 500 bullets in her luggage, the state news agency reported on Thursday.
News agency ABI said the woman, who it identified as Din Dona Thin, 20, had become nervous when taken to have her bags searched on arrival late on Wednesday, telling staff she was only carrying cheese.
"Last night at El Alto airport, a U.S. citizen was intercepted, coming from Miami, on an American Airlines plane, carrying five boxes of bullets, each one containing 100 .45-caliber bullets," ABI quoted national immigrations director Magaly Zegarra as saying.
A Bolivian judge told reporters the American woman had been released on Thursday because no offense had been committed under the country's laws.
Citing the tight security at U.S. airports, Zegarra said it was "incredible that she was able to pass through with luggage containing five boxes of bullets," ABI reported. It said the official had asked the airline for an explanation.
A U.S. Embassy spokeswoman confirmed in a statement that an American woman had been detained. "There was a lack of knowledge about current customs regulations in Bolivia," the statement said.
October 19, 2007
Departure Gate No 9 at airport restricted to illegals
Dubai: Illegal passengers at Dubai International Airport who are either leaving the country or arriving are to be kept at one of the departure gates.
"Instead of spreading all over the airport for an unspecified period, this arrangement has been taken recently by the Civil Aviation Department because of the irritation the illegal passengers are causing for other airport travellers," said an official from the airport.
He said those illegal passengers used to sleep and eat and loiter around the departure areas.
"Those illegal passengers have created a bad image at the airport," he added.
He said the move had been planned in order to restrict them from using all the airport facilities or to stay for a long time.He added that there are at the moment 36 illegal travellers of various nationalities who were kept at Gate No. 9 awaiting their departure.
Deportation
He said that Gate No. 9 was allocated to them and they are restricted from leaving it till they are deported.
"The step was taken four days ago and those who try to enter the country illegally or those who are supposed to leave the country because they are being deported or have expired visas or for any other reason they attempt to stay inside the airport are also kept there," he said.
He added that a Dnata team is responsible for arranging flights for those illegal passengers to go to back to their countries.
He said each one of those passengers who are kept at Gate No. 9 is awaiting his or her flight home.
"The moment they are sure of the departure time and flight number of the illegal traveller he or she will be taken to the gate designated for their departure," the official said.
SINGAPORE AIRLINES TO INCREASE FUEL SURCHARGE
- On regional routes, US$24 (up from US$22) per sector, for flights between Singapore and ASEAN countries.
- US$104 (up from US$98) per sector, for flights between Singapore and gateways in the United States and Canada on a single-sector basis; and
- US$67 (up from US$63) per sector, on all other flights.
The price of jet fuel has been steadily climbing in recent weeks, and is now over US$95 per barrel.
The new surcharge is subject to official approval in some markets, and some local variations may apply where regulatory approvals dictate.
The adjustments will offer only partial relief of higher operating costs arising from increases in the price of jet fuel.
Singapore Airlines will continue to monitor the price of jet fuel and keep the application of the fuel surcharge under active review.
Vietnam To Finalize Aircraft Deals By Year End
Reuters-Vietnam Airlines should speed up talks with Boeing to sign an agreement to buy 12 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft before November 16, the Vietnamese government said in a statement on Friday.
It also ordered the national flag carrier to finalize an agreement to buy 10 Airbus A350-900XWB passenger jets and 20 single-aisle A321 jets before December 21.
The state-run airline signed draft agreements with the aircraft makers on the purchases earlier this month.
The government said Vietnam Airlines did not have to go through a tender process for the purchases.
It said the Finance Ministry would provide guarantees for any funds used to buy planes and engines by Vietnam Airlines and also by the newly established Vietnam Aircraft Leasing Company, in which the airline has more than 10 percent of stake.
The government also agreed to allocate 904 billion dong (USD$56 million) for the purchase of four Boeing 787-8 planes for which Vietnam Airlines signed a contract with the US planemaker in 2005 for delivery in 2009 and 2010.
Early this month, the airline signed a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of 12 Boeing 787-8s in a deal valued by Boeing at USD$1.9 billion based on list prices. The first plane would be delivered in 2015.
The carrier also signed a draft agreement for 10 A350 jets during a visit to Paris by Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.
The deals are worth USD$3.8 billion at list prices, including USD$2.4 billion for the crucial A350 order where the competition between Boeing and Airbus is at its fiercest.
The 787 and A350 are competing head to head in one of the most promising parts of the aviation market, though Boeing has a five-year lead and a strong lead in sales over its rival.
Vietnam Airlines would buy a total of 43 aircraft during the 2006-2020 period, including 20 A321s, eight Boeing 787-8s, five ATR-72s and 10 A350s, the government statement said.
In another development, the government asked the Finance Ministry to implement a project to partially privatize Vietnam Airlines. It gave no timeframe.
The airline aimed to expand its fleet to have 60 planes in 2010, 85 in 2015 and 107 in 2020, the government statement said.
AIRPORT NEWS
China seeks military airfield solution
China's civil aviation regulator has asked the military to let low-cost airlines use secondary airports across the country. Despite soaring demand, the development of low-cost airlines in China has been hampered by a lack of secondary airports, ticket price controls and high import taxes for aircraft and parts. In the United States and Europe, by contrast, budget carriers make heavy use of their networks of secondary airports.In an effort to boost economic growth, the Chinese government will also spend US$133million (Yuan 1 billion) a year to subsidise small and medium-sized airports and airlines flying to smaller cities, top regulator Yang Yuanyuan said in an interview on Wednesday.
"At the moment, it's one city, one airport, and that's the main airport, which is big and has very full schedules. But we are devoted to developing low-cost airlines," says Yang. "I really appreciate what the boss of Malaysia's Air Asia has as his slogan: 'Now everyone can fly'. This is great. This is my dream," adds Yang, who used to be a pilot.
The government has invested billions of dollars upgrading old airports and building new ones, but many lose money and either have few flights or none at all as they are in remote, economically backward areas. To help alleviate this situation, regional airports will get US$80 million (Yuan 600 million) annually to improve their finances, and airlines US$40 million (Yuan 300 million) to fly to these cities (see: Subsidies planned for China’s small airports
Changi secures Jordan consultancy deal
Singapore’s Changi Airports International (CAI) has secured a deal to draw up a master plan for the development of the King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, Jordan. Under the agreement with the Aqaba Development Corporation, CAI will also provide other consultancy services, including studies of nearby land to attract aviation-related investments and to minimise damage to nearby Red Sea coral reefs.
The Singapore company did not say how much the deal was worth. A consortium led by French operator Aeroports de Paris in April won a US$450 million deal to rebuild and operate Amman’s Queen Alia airport and treble capacity at Jordan’s main international gateway.
Three airport development alternatives will be drawn up by CAI, taking into account an anticipated increase in traffic. Air travel in the Middle East has been growing by at least 18% annually. The airport is located within the Aqaba Special Economic Zone – a major development zone in the Middle East. Jordan is seeking to turn the airport into a world-class facility, serving the entire region.
Changi Airports is a subsidiary of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, which runs the city-state’s main airport. Changi Airports’ other projects include the development of airport management and retail programmes at Chengdu and Qingdao airports in China, and the drafting of an improvement plan for India’s Mumbai International Airport.
SIA takes delivery of first A380 at Changi’s Terminal 3
Singapore prime minister Lee Hsien Loong says, “The launch of the A380 is a milestone, not just for SIA, but also for Changi Airport. Changi is the first airport in the world to handle commercial A380 operations.”
SIA has purchased 19 double-decked A380 planes and five of these are due to be delivered next year. The new plane will make its inaugural commercial flight from Singapore Changi to Sydney next Thursday (25 October). The airline has raised some US$1.3 million for charity through an auction of the seats on board.
The plane will operate a daily service between Singapore and Sydney. Daily A380 services to London will be launched next year.
Virgin launches “world’s fastest” check-in at Heathrow’s T3
Virgin launches “world’s fastest” check-in at Heathrow’s T3
Virgin Atlantic has announced plans to launch what it claims will be the world’s fastest airport check-in at its new Upper Class Wing at London Heathrow’s Terminal 3. The airline claims its new Wing, which opens on 2 November, will enable business passengers to speed from limo to lounge in under 10 minutes.
Passengers will use a dedicated security channel to emerge in the heart of the terminal building, a short walk from the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse.
The service is open to Virgin’s Upper Class passengers and Flying Club Gold members who can check-in at the Upper Class Check-In, in Zone A of the main terminal, before taking a priority lift straight to the dedicated security channel.
The Upper Class Wing was designed by architects Foster + Partners in conjunction with Virgin Atlantic’s in-house design team and is part of BAA’s £1 billion investment in Terminal 3 over the next ten years. Later this year, Virgin will launch a wider, brighter and more spacious check-in area for premium economy and economy passengers in Zone A.
The airline predicts 80% of its passengers at Heathrow will use online or kiosk check-in by the end of 2008.
Mark Bullock, BAA’s Heathrow managing director, says: “BAA has exciting plans for Terminal 3 and Virgin Atlantic’s new Upper Class Wing is a fantastic addition.”
Four Seasons Hotel Amman voted top hotel in Mid East
Four Seasons Hotel Amman has been voted the top Hotel in the Middle East in Conde Nast Traveler’s 20th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards. The results are derived from the largest independent poll of consumers’ preferences, the Readers’ Choice Survey, second in size only to the US Census. A record number of readers, over 28,000, voted this year.
The Readers’ Choice Awards gala took place earlier this month in New York and the complete results will be published in the November issue of Conde Nast Traveller.
“We are delighted to hear that Four Seasons Amman has been recognised by the readers of this very prestigious magazine as being the number one Hotel in the Middle East,” said Gerhard Stutz, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Amman. “It is a tremendous achievement for everyone on the team and reinforces the aspirations of Four Seasons worldwide – to be the best hotel in each location where we operate.”
The 192-room Hotel opened in December 2002.
Aviation sets a benchmark on environmental performance for other industries to follow
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) challenged governments to put aside politics and join industry in delivering real results to further improve air transport’s good environmental performance. The challenge was delivered by IATA’s Director General and CEO, Giovanni Bisignani at the World Air Transport Forum in Cannes, which is focused on sustainable development.
“Airlines are leading the debate on environment with a vision to become carbon neutral in the medium-term and zero carbon emissions in the long term. We are setting the benchmark on environmental performance for other industries to follow,” said Bisignani.
IATA’s 240 member airlines agreed a four-pillar strategy on climate change:
- Invest in new technology
- Build and use efficient infrastructure
- Operate planes effectively
- Consider positive economic measures while working with governments to define an emissions trading scheme that is fair, global and voluntary
“We cannot do it all on our own - governments must be involved,” said Bisignani. All 179 states attending the recent triennial Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization endorsed the IATA four-pillar strategy, including a target to improve fuel efficiency 25% by 2020.
“Our biggest disappointment was with the European States. They are taking a completely political and totally irresponsible approach by unilaterally pursuing emissions trading rather than taking a global approach. This will cause diplomatic trade battles, but will do nothing for the environment,” said Bisignani.
Specifically, Bisignani criticised Europe for the 12 million tonnes of CO2 wasted each year from the inefficiency of its air traffic management system, comprising 34 air navigation service providers. “Europe has been discussing a Single European Sky for 15 years, wasting a lot of hot air in discussions, with no action. On the environment it is acting like a hypocrite: charging for airline emissions without fixing the mess in its own air traffic management.”
Demand grows for Kathmandu flights
Etihad Airways is gearing-up for the launch of its new four flights a week service from Abu Dhabi to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Kathmandu will be Etihad’s ninth new destination of 2007 and demand for the service has been strong with more than 65 per cent of seats in economy class booked throughout the month of November.
The new service joins Etihad’s expanding network across the Indian subcontinent which includes Dhaka, Delhi, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Mumbai, Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: “Etihad continues to offer air travellers flights to the world’s most exciting destinations. Our new Kathmandu service will provide a valuable link for business and leisure travellers many of whom will fly from across the world connecting via our home base at Abu Dhabi airport.”
The flights will also provide a valuable link for the 90,000 Nepalese nationals living in the UAE and across the Middle East region, as well as the growing demand from holidaymakers keen to experience the ancient culture offered in Nepal and the world-famous Himalayan mountains.
Tourism in Nepal has developed considerably in recent years with thousands of travellers visiting the country each year to enjoy its spectacular scenery, wildlife and Everest, the world`s highest mountain.
Etihad will operate a two cabin Airbus A330-200 between Abu Dhabi and Kathmandu configured to carry 262 passengers, with 22 in business class and 240 in economy.
October 14, 2007
Airbus set to deliver first A380
PARIS (AP) -- After repeated, embarrassing delays, Airbus is to deliver its first A380 superjumbo jet Monday -- a critical step for the European plane maker in its efforts to rebound from a string of troubles.
The double-decker jet, the world's largest passenger plane, is to take off from the southwestern city of Toulouse, Airbus' headquarters, for delivery to Singapore Airlines following a glitzy delivery ceremony including a sound and light show.
Airbus President and Chief Executive Thomas Enders called the handover "a major milestone for the A380 program" in a statement released by the company Friday.
Airbus has gone though five CEOs as multiple delays in the A380 program resulted in massive write-offs and a restructuring plan that foresees 10,000 job cuts over four years -- not to mention billions of dollars in lost profit.
Such delays have hurt more than just profits: Airbus' reputation has suffered, and U.S. rival Boeing Co. grabbed the top sales spot in 2006.
The A380's inaugural commercial flight has been set for Oct. 25 from Singapore to Sydney. Singapore Airlines has auctioned all seats on the first flight on eBay, raising about $1.25 million for charity.Singapore has fitted its jet with 471 seats configured in three classes: 12 luxury suites on the main deck, 60 business class seats on the upper deck, and 399 economy class seats on both decks. The plane is to replace one of three Boeing 747-400 jets already serving the Sydney-Singapore route.
John Leahy, Airbus' chief salesman, suggested that the A380's problems will be over once the plane gets into commercial service.
"When this airplane is out flying, my marketing job will get a lot easier," he told The Associated Press in an interview last week.
The A380 includes glamorous features such as a cocktail bar complete with water fountain and a duty-free lounge. Some airlines will offer passengers the chance to freshen up with a shower.
Morale at Airbus has also been hurt by accusations that senior managers profited from knowledge about the A380's problems to cash in on share options. A preliminary report by the French Financial Markets Authority pointed to "massive insider trading" at European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co., Airbus' parent company.
The A380 represents Airbus' bet on future demand for long-haul travel between increasingly congested hub airports worldwide. Boeing argues passengers want point-to-point journeys between smaller airports and is targeting the more lucrative market for midsize jets.
Airbus is targeting every airline currently flying a Boeing 747, currently the biggest passenger plane in the skies.
October 13, 2007
Singapore Airlines Garners More Awards
SIA garners more awards
  In another annual survey conducted by the UK edition of Conde Nast Traveller, Singapore Airlines was rated the 'Favourite Business Airline 2007' by Business Class travelers. -- PHOTO: BT |
The Airline has won this top award 19 times since it was launched 20 years ago.
Readers, who participated in the annual Business Travel survey conducted by the magazine, also voted the Airline as the winner in the following categories: Best Transpacific Business Class, Best Transatlantic Business Class
In another annual survey conducted by the UK edition of Conde Nast Traveller, Singapore Airlines was rated the 'Favourite Business Airline 2007' by Business Class travelers.
Recently, readers of the UK-based Business Traveller magazine voted Singapore Airlines as the top airline in the following categories: Best long-haul Airline, Best Business Class, Best Cabin Staff and Best Asian Airline.
These accolades come soon after the recently announced rating of Singapore Airlines as Airline of the Year in the annual Skytrax survey.
'We are grateful to our customers who have supported the Airline through the years by consistently according it good ratings in the various surveys. We appreciate their unwavering loyalty,' said Mr Huang Cheng Eng, Executive Vice President, Marketing & The Regions for Singapore Airlines.
He adds,'Our staff must also be commended for working as a team to provide the best possible travel experience for our customers. I am confident that these awards will encourage our people to continue their good work and to set even higher standards of customer service'.
The awards that Singapore Airlines has been winning over the years encompass categories such as inflight service and entertainment, food and beverage, ground services, safety and company management.
Qatar Airways Sponsors International Travel Exhibition In Vietnam
Qatar Airways Senior Manager Commercial Operations Far East & Australasia Marwan Koleilat, poses with local television celebrity Quynh Huong and Qatar Airways cabin crew holding a Certificate of Appreciation from the organisers of the International Travel Exhibition in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The travel trade and consumer show, considered one of the highlights of the travel calendar in the region, has grown in significance with Laos, Cambodia and host country Vietnam among the many nations that took part.
Record numbers of visitors attended the three-day event, which ended on Sunday at the Phu Tho Exhibition Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's commercial capital. The event attracted more than 120 international buyers from 22 countries.
Qatar Airways launched direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City in March from its hub in Doha, State of Qatar, becoming the first carrier in the Middle East to serve the country of Vietnam.
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said the expanded format at this year's ITE travel show highlighted its growing importance as a platform to promote outbound tourism from the region.
"Qatar Airways is delighted to be supporting travel to and from this part of the world with our four weekly non-stop flights which are part of our ever-growing international network," said Al Baker.
"The brand new international terminal at Tan Son Nhat Airport is an outstanding example of Ho Chi Minh City's status as a major travel destination, as well as being a point of origin for increasing numbers of passenger traffic."
Tourism ministers from Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam officially opened the exhibition following high-level meetings between the participating tourism authorities. Delegations from each of the three "Jewels of the Mekong" combined their efforts to create the largest event in ITE's history.
Qatar Airways, one of the show's sponsors, exhibited a state-of-the-art stand at the event, which featured Business Class seats complete with cabin crew assistance to help create an onboard experience for visitors.
There were also flat-screen televisions displaying the airline's latest corporate video, together with refreshments for visitors, destination brochures and in-flight magazines.
Qatar Airways Senior Manager Commercial Operations Far East and Australasia Marwan Koleilat was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the event organisers for the airline's participation at ITE.
"We enjoyed highlighting our award-winning Five Star service at this important event and look forward to facilitating the growing number of people looking to travel from this region throughout Qatar Airways' expanding network," said Koleilat.
The increase in passenger numbers is expected to allow more premium class travellers flying Qatar Airways with access to its exclusive Premium Terminal at Doha International Airport, exclusively for departing First and Business Class passengers.
The Premium Terminal features facilities such as a spa, jacuzzi, duty free, business centre and fine dining restaurants. Built in just nine months, the terminal is the world's first commercial passenger building dedicated to First and Business Class passengers.
The Doha – Ho Chi Minh City schedules are:-
Depart Doha International AirportTue, Fri, Sat QR688 at 0745, arrive Tan Son Nhat Intl at 1920
Sun QR688 at 2359, arrive Tan Son Nhat Intl at 1135 following day
Depart Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat QR689 at 2030, arrive Doha International at 2359
Airbus 'insider trading' denied
French finance minister Christine Lagarde has denied the government acted improperly in relation to alleged insider trading at Airbus parent, EADS. 
Giving evidence to parliament, she said her ministry was not aware of any problems at the firm before approving share sales in the Airbus owner.
Media reports claim the state knew about setbacks to the Airbus 380 and still allowed suspicious share sales.
These occurred before news about delays to the Airbus A380 emerged last June.
Ms Lagarde told a French parliamentary committee on Thursday that the government had acted "in the most irreproachable" manner with regard to EADS from the end of 2005 to May 2006, when delays to the Airbus 380 superjumbo first became public.
The announcement wiped 26% off the value of EADS, the Franco-German firm which owns the Airbus plane manufacturer.
A report from the stock market regulator AMF sent to the French prosecutor's office a week ago is understood to have examined the extensive sale of stock options before the problems with the plane were revealed.
The French press, claiming to have seen a leaked copy of the report, claim 21 former and current managers are under suspicion but stock market regulators have refused to comment on this, saying their probe is incomplete.
This prompted a parliamentary investigation into the role of the French government, a major EADS shareholder, amid allegations that ministers allowed state bank CDC to buy shares from defence firm Lagardere in April 2006 despite knowing about problems at the plane maker.
'Not aware'
Ms Lagarde said that the finance ministry's internal investigation into its conduct proved that until "at least the end of May 2006", the government was "no more aware than the public or the markets" of delays with the superjumbo A380.
"The services of my ministry performed their task in the most professional manner, the most irreproachable fashion," she said.
Thierry Breton, finance minister at the time, testified last week before the parliamentary committee that he knew nothing of the deal with Lagardere, also defending the finance ministry's actions as "beyond reproach".
President Nicolas Sarkozy has promised to investigate fully whether the government played any part in the alleged insider trading, while opposition politicians have called for a public inquiry into the matter.Shanghai’s seagull terminal nears completion
Officials at Shanghai Pudong International Airport have confirmed that the US$2.5 billion (Yuan 20 billion) seagull-shaped Terminal 2 project will open for passengers early next year.
This marks completion of the second phase of construction at the airport, which opened in 1999. Upon completion, the expansion project will increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity from 20 million to 60 million, making Shanghai one of the world’s largest airports.
More expansion is planned. The airport expects to handle around 100 million passengers a year and 5.7 million tonnes of cargo by 2020, making it the biggest international airport in China.
By then, it should have three terminals, two satellite buildings and five runways, and will handle most air passengers travelling to and from the city.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is located in the eastern part of China’s Pudong district. In 2006 it handled 17.15 million passengers on international flights, considerably more than Beijing Capital International Airport, which handled 12.6 million international passengers. At present, only 5% of passengers traveling to Pudong are on transfers, but that figure is expected to grow to between 30 to 40% by 2020.
