Dave

Virgin Atlantic announces new routes across three continents

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Virgin Atlantic is expanding its global network by launching new routes to São Paulo, Brazil and Bengaluru, India, while also reintroducing flights to Dubai, Las Vegas, the Maldives, and Turks & Caicos, showcasing their commitment to serving UK-based business travellers with enhanced connectivity and state-of-the-art aircraft.

Virgin Atlantic has announced a series of exciting developments that are set to enhance the travel experiences of UK-based business travellers.

With the launch of new routes across three continents and the introduction of state-of-the-art aircraft, Virgin Atlantic is capitalising on growing demand for business travel. This expansion will offer customers more than 250,000 additional seats across the airline’s network, compared to 2019.

One of the most significant highlights is Virgin Atlantic’s foray into South America with the introduction of a brand-new daily flight from London Heathrow to São Paulo, Brazil.

São Paulo: bustling metropolis and foodie capital

São Paulo, a bustling metropolis known as the foodie capital of Brazil, offers a vibrant cultural scene and serves as a major hub for multinational businesses.

This move not only caters to corporate customers and business travellers but also provides a gateway for leisure travellers seeking enriching experiences.

Additionally, São Paulo’s position as South America’s leading import and export hub will make it a popular cargo route, facilitating trade between the UK and Brazil.

The airline’s expansion in India continues with the introduction of a new route to Bengaluru.

As Virgin Atlantic’s third destination and fourth daily service to India, Bengaluru strengthens the airline’s commitment to serving one of its fastest-growing markets.

The city, renowned for its technological advancements and thriving corporate sector, offers both business opportunities and cultural attractions for adventurous travellers.

New routes will provide seamless connectivity for customers traveling via London Heathrow to various North American destinations, courtesy of Virgin Atlantic’s joint venture partner, Delta Air Lines.

For those seeking premium winter sun destinations, Virgin Atlantic has exciting news as well. The airline will be reintroducing flights from Manchester to Las Vegas, enhancing its offering for leisure travellers in the North of England.

Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic’s return to Dubai, operating seasonally from October through March, will cater to the increasing demand for luxury getaways in sunny destinations. These routes not only accommodate passengers but also provide significant cargo capacity, facilitating trade between the Middle East and key markets in the UK and the US.

Shai Weiss: our plan is working

Demonstrating its commitment to the Caribbean region, Virgin Atlantic will introduce new inter-island flying, allowing both locals and holidaymakers to experience the joy of island hopping.

The airline’s dedication to this beautiful part of the world underlines its support for the region’s tourism industry and its commitment to providing diverse travel options for customers.

Shai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic CEO said,

We’re excited to announce a range of new routes across three continents, giving our customers the opportunity to fly in style with Virgin Atlantic. From our entrance into South America, to our expansion in India and the growth of our premium sun portfolio, there is something for all of our customers to experience.

By leveraging the power of our strategic partners, and welcoming our state of the art, brand new A350 and A339 aircraft, customers can rely on Virgin Atlantic to connect them to where they need to be, enjoying a premium customer experience, delivered by our amazing crew.

Our plan is working, positioning us to return to profitability in 2024.

A350: Virgin Atlantic has invested in one of the youngest fleets of aircraft

To support its network expansion, Virgin Atlantic is welcoming the arrival of new state-of-the-art aircraft, including the Airbus A350 and A330neo.

These aircraft not only contribute to a younger and more fuel-efficient fleet but also offer enhanced passenger experiences, with features like the reimagined Upper Class cabin and game-changing wireless charging.

By the end of 2024, the airline will have received its full order of 12 Airbus A350s and four A330neos.

The recruitment of an additional 350 cabin crew members will further strengthen the airline’s renowned customer service.

Virgin Atlantic’s dedication to sustainability is also commendable. With a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the airline operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry.

Over the past decade, Virgin Atlantic has reduced its absolute carbon emissions by 35%. The airline’s efforts to lead in sustainability are exemplified by its participation in an industry consortium aiming to deliver the first 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel flight across the Atlantic.

This initiative demonstrates the potential for SAF to be safely used as a drop-in fuel within existing infrastructure, engines, and airframes, supporting the industry’s goals of reducing environmental impact.

Virgin Atlantic’s recent announcements reflect the airline’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of UK-based business travellers. With new routes, enhanced connectivity, state-of-the-art aircraft, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Virgin Atlantic is poised to provide an exceptional travel experience while supporting economic growth and trade opportunities between the UK and destinations across the globe.

Dave

Expanded business travel opportunities as British Airways resumes Beijing route

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British Airways resumes direct flights between London and Beijing, offering enhanced business travel connections and a luxurious experience for UK-based travellers, marking a significant milestone in the UK-China travel sector.

In a significant milestone, British Airways’ inaugural flight from London to Beijing landed at Beijing Daxing Airport yesterday, 4 June, marking the resumption of their passenger service between the two cities.

This is British Airways’ first flight on this route since January 2020 when it was suspended due to the global pandemic.

With this relaunch, British Airways proudly holds the distinction of being the sole British carrier operating direct flights between Beijing and the UK.

The new four-times-a-week service will operate between Beijing and London, with departures from Daxing Airport on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

This development not only benefits business travellers but also highlights the airline’s joint business partnership with China Southern, as both carriers operate from Daxing Airport. The collaboration provides customers with improved connectivity options between the UK and China, seamless transfers, a broader range of onward flights, and enhanced benefits.

Through the joint business, frequent flyer benefits have been amplified, allowing travellers to earn more points, conveniently book through both airlines’ websites or apps, enjoy upgraded lounge access, and experience some of the finest Chinese and British products and services both in the air and on the ground.

To commemorate this long-awaited moment, Louise Street, British Airways’ Director of Worldwide Airports, personally welcomed the inaugural flight, extending warm greetings to passengers and crew upon their arrival. Street expressed her excitement, stating,

The restart of one of our most important routes after more than three years is a long-awaited moment for all of us at British Airways. Following the successful resumption of flights between Shanghai and London in April, we’re excited to be back in Beijing too, reuniting families and friends and facilitating international student and business travel once again. We are looking forward to working hand-in-hand with our joint business partner China Southern, to provide wider transit options and various benefits to our customers in China and the UK

Travellers journeying between London and Beijing can now indulge in British Airways’ newly designed Club Suite cabin, specifically tailored to provide a luxurious and comfortable experience for business class passengers.

The innovative design features direct-aisle access, suite doors for enhanced privacy, luxurious flat-bed seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, and an impressive 40% increase in storage capacity.

Additional amenities include WiFi, 18.5-inch inflight entertainment screens with high-definition gate-to-gate programming, PC/USB power outlets, plush new furnishings including pillows and warm quilts from The White Company, upgraded amenity kits, and an elevated dining experience.

In October 2019, British Airways became the first international flag carrier to transition operations to the newly opened Daxing Airport, a testament to their commitment to delivering exceptional service.

Passengers arriving at Daxing Airport can benefit from the high-speed rail link into the city and enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including a newly redesigned lounge catering to eligible travellers.

The resumption of British Airways’ direct flights between London and Beijing represents an exciting development for business travellers in the UK seeking convenient and seamless connections with China. With enhanced connectivity, unparalleled in-flight amenities, and the backing of their joint business partnership with China Southern, British Airways is set to redefine the travel experience for corporate travelers between the two nations.


Dave

Elevating business travel: Qantas restarts flights to New York with premium onboard offerings

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Qantas resumes flights to New York, offering exclusive amenities and a New York-inspired menu to enhance the business travel experience.

Qantas has announced the long-awaited restart of its flights to New York after a temporary hiatus since 2020.

In preparation for this significant milestone, the airline has acquired state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner aircraft to operate the route and has introduced a range of exclusive onboard customer items to enhance the travel experience.

Starting on 14 June, Qantas will initially operate three weekly flights from Sydney to New York, with plans to increase the frequency to four flights per week starting in October. This newly revamped route will feature a transit through Auckland, a first for Qantas, before embarking on a non-stop 17+ hour journey to the bustling metropolis of New York. Previously, the flight had a layover in Los Angeles.

The reintroduction of the New York flights is a significant step towards Qantas’ goal of restoring its international network to pre-Covid capacity by March 2024.

Pyjamas: bespoke designs from Rebecca Vallance

Markus Svensson, Qantas Group Chief Customer Officer, acknowledged New York’s popularity among Australian travellers, both for leisure and business purposes. To celebrate Qantas’ return to the city, the airline is launching several customer initiatives.

Markus Svensson said,

Qantas is one of the few airlines in the world to provide Business Class passengers with complimentary pyjamas, and we’re excited to launch a limited edition pyjama and amenity kit range in partnership with leading Australian fashion designer Rebecca Vallance.

One of the notable offerings exclusively for Qantas Business Class passengers is the introduction of complimentary pyjamas, a rarity among airlines worldwide. To mark this occasion, Qantas has partnered with esteemed Australian fashion designer Rebecca Vallance to create a limited edition pyjama and amenity kit collection. For a limited time, Business Class travellers on the New York route will be treated to a navy sleeper suit adorned with monograms of the Qantas “Roo” and the Rebecca Vallance logo. The designs will also incorporate the flight numbers QF3 and QF4, as well as a bespoke New York heart motif.

Additionally, Business Class passengers will receive a specially curated Rebecca Vallance amenity kit, complete with a matching eyeshade. This unique offering replaces the Koskela amenity kit available on Qantas’ international network. A select number of these collectible pyjama and amenity kit sets will be available for purchase.

Stylish: Rebecca Vallance has created bespoke designs

Renowned fashion designer Rebecca Vallance expressed her excitement about collaborating with Qantas, stating that she was honoured to partner with the iconic Australian brand.

Inspired by New York’s sophistication and style, Vallance has created a bespoke design that captures the vibrancy of the city, drawing from her latest collection, ‘Avenue Astoria.’ In addition to the pyjama and amenity kit range, Vallance has crafted two unique couture gowns with metallic Italian fabrication and Art Deco inspired patterns.

Qantas Frequent Flyers who make a purchase from the Rebecca Vallance collection will have the opportunity to win these exclusive dresses and enjoy a personalised fitting session.

Rebecca Vallance said,

It’s an honour to partner with the iconic Australian brand that is Qantas. New York has always felt like a second home to me, and I’m so proud to be working with the national carrier to offer travellers some keepsake PJ’s and amenity kits to enjoy long after they have landed.

We curated the bespoke Rebecca Vallance design as an homage to one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities, with inspiration from our latest collection ‘Avenue Astoria’.

Qantas’ commitment to delivering a premium inflight experience extends beyond exclusive fashion collaborations.

Neil Perry, Qantas Creative Director Food, Beverage and Service, has developed a range of New York-inspired dishes to be featured on the inflight menu, perfectly complementing the launch of the new route.

Drawing inspiration from the diverse culinary scene of New York, these delectable creations will offer passengers a taste of the city’s renowned street food and fine dining experiences. From a classic Reuben sandwich and New York-style spaghetti and meatballs to General Tso chicken and a gourmet hot dog, the menu showcases the fusion of flavors that make New York’s cuisine so extraordinary.

Neil Perry said,

New York is one of the culinary capitals of the world, from its much-loved street food to its internationally revered fine dining Michelin starred restaurants. We are using some amazing Australian produce to put our own spin on some of New York’s most famous food experiences. From a Reuben sandwich and a classic hot dog to New York style spaghetti and meatballs and General Tso chicken, New York does food its own way and the result is a melting pot of amazing flavours which we are excited to incorporate across our menus.

Premium cabin passengers on flights QF3 and QF4 can look forward to a delightful selection of New York-inspired menu items, including the famous spaghetti and meatballs, a classic Reuben sandwich, and a NY bagel with lox, cream cheese, capers, and lemon.

Indulgent desserts: pecan pie with crème fraiche and New York-style baked cheesecake with blueberry compote can provide the perfect finale to a memorable dining experience in the sky

Other highlights include General Tso chicken with smashed cucumber salad, steamed rice, and broccolini, a mouthwatering beef hot dog with sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard, and a sumptuous seared beef fillet with creamed spinach and baked potato.

Qantas is committed to ensuring that its lounges also reflect the spirit of New York.

Throughout June, the Qantas First Lounges in Sydney and Melbourne, as well as the Auckland International Lounge, will feature a “dish of the day” inspired by New York cuisine.

Additionally, passengers can enjoy signature cocktails such as the Manhattan Spritz and Garibaldi, adding an extra touch of sophistication to their pre-flight experience.

Qantas’ relaunch of flights to New York, coupled with the introduction of exclusive amenities and a tantalising menu inspired by the city, underscores the airline’s dedication to providing business travellers with a seamless and luxurious travel experience.

As Qantas continues to expand its international network, it remains committed to offering unparalleled service, premium comforts, and memorable moments to its esteemed corporate clientele.

Dave

Virgin Atlantic is marking English wine week by flying an English Bacchus in Upper Class across its network throughout June

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Virgin Atlantic and the renowned Yotes Court vineyard have joined forces to celebrate English wine week (17th-25th June) in a truly exceptional manner.

This exciting partnership entails Virgin Atlantic exclusively featuring Yotes Court’s acclaimed English Bacchus, aptly named ‘On the Nod,’ throughout the month of June in its Upper Class cabins.

Situated in the picturesque Kent countryside, Yotes Court vineyard sprawls across 75 acres of well-drained soil enriched with Kentish ragstone, creating the perfect environment for cultivating exquisite grapes.

Under the ownership and stewardship of Susannah Ricci, Yotes Court is renowned for its commitment to 100% sustainable practices.

As one of the pioneering vineyards to obtain the esteemed Sustainable Wine of Great Britain certification, Yotes Court prides itself on employing “living-soil” viticultural techniques, fostering biodiversity, and conserving the environment, thereby significantly reducing their carbon footprint per hectare.

Virgin Atlantic has a proud history of championing and implementing sustainable innovations.

As part of this ongoing commitment, the airline seeks to showcase exceptional brands that share its mission of sustainability.

In this regard, Yotes Court stands as a perfect match. The vineyard’s signature Bacchus, affectionately known as ‘On the Nod,’ derives its name from the thrilling world of horse racing. This term refers to a race so closely contested that the winner is determined by a photo of the finish, creating a truly captivating spectacle.

By featuring Yotes Court’s ‘On the Nod’ Bacchus on its flights, Virgin Atlantic not only provides a delightful and unique experience for its Upper Class passengers but also pays homage to the rich heritage and outstanding quality of English wines.

Business travellers flying with Virgin Atlantic during English wine week will have the opportunity to savour the exceptional craftsmanship of Yotes Court, immersing themselves in the captivating flavors and aromas that define this remarkable wine.

Shiada Drysdale, Beverage Lead for Virgin Atlantic said,

It’s no secret I am a huge fan of English wine, so I have been waiting for the right moment to introduce a zesty English Bacchus into our onboard range at Virgin Atlantic. I am delighted we will be offering Kent-based ‘On the Nod’ from Yotes Court in June as a ‘nod’ to English Wine Week.

Susannah Ricci, Owner of Yotes Court said,

It’s a real thrill and honour to have had our Bacchus chosen by Virgin Atlantic to celebrate English Wine Week this year.  Their dedication to adopting sustainable practices where possible, without compromising on quality, aligns very much to ours.  It’s such a great opportunity to introduce passengers to this amazing grape variety and I hope they thoroughly enjoy it.

Whether it’s the commitment to sustainability, the meticulous viticultural practices, or the captivating story behind the ‘On the Nod’ Bacchus, this partnership between Virgin Atlantic and Yotes Court epitomises the dedication to excellence and memorable experiences that business travellers seek.

As the airline continues to embrace sustainable and remarkable brands, passengers can look forward to a truly distinctive and environmentally conscious journey.

Dave

British Airways Commences global rollout of new uniforms, elevating the style of 30,000 employees

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British Airways introduces a stylish and practical new uniform collection designed by Ozwald Boateng for its operational ground colleagues, marking a significant step forward in the airline’s commitment to modernization and sustainability.

BA has unveiled its brand-new uniform, marking the beginning of a rollout that will see more than 5,000 colleagues in the airline’s engineering, maintenance, and airport operations teams donning the new garments.

Pioneers: ground crew are among the first BA employees to don the new uniforms

Designed by renowned British-Ghanaian fashion designer and master tailor Ozwald Boateng OBE, the uniforms will eventually be worn by over 30,000 British Airways employees worldwide by the end of this year.

UK-based business travellers will be particularly interested in the development. The next phase of the rollout, in September, will include cabin crew, pilots, and customer-facing colleagues.

The new uniform collection represents a significant step forward, offering a wider range of options and flexibility. With over 128,000 garment items ordered for operational ground colleagues alone, this wardrobe refresh presents more choices than ever before.

The collection features more than 20 unique garments, including a cutting-edge quilted jacket with a contemporary design showcasing a bespoke airwave print—a consistent element throughout the collection.

Engineered design: 30,000 BA employees will have the new uniforms this year

Designed with practicality in mind, the jacket comes with a fleece lining, is showerproof, and incorporates additional pockets for tools, detachable tool belts, and gloves with touch screen technology.

What sets this uniform apart is the extensive collaboration and input from British Airways colleagues over a span of five years.

More than 1,500 employees from across the airline volunteered their time to shape the look and feel of the collection. Through numerous design workshops, prototype feedback sessions, and garment trials—over 50 in total—colleagues provided invaluable insights to create the iconic British designs that embody both style and functionality.

To ensure the utmost suitability and durability, Ozwald Boateng immersed himself in the world of British Airways by shadowing various airport roles. This firsthand experience enabled him to understand the unique requirements of each role and integrate them into the designs.

Once the garments were developed, they underwent rigorous secret trials, including exposure to deluge showers and temperatures as low as -18 degrees Celsius to test their water resistance and durability.

René de Groot, Chief Operating Officer of British Airways, expressed his excitement about the new uniform rollout, stating,

This uniform has been multiple years in the making, and colleagues are genuinely excited to wear the collection, which they’re calling a step change from the previous garments, offering much more practicality. I’m delighted that airport operations, cargo, engineering and maintenance colleagues across our airports and bases worldwide will be the first to transition into the new designs

Style icon: Ozwald Boateng

In line with British Airways’ sustainability programme, BA Better World, sustainability was a key consideration in the design process of the new uniforms, as well as in the recycling of the old ones.

As operational ground teams begin wearing their new uniforms, they will return their current uniforms, which will either be donated to selected charities or recycled.

The airline is exploring various options for recycling the garments, including the creation of a sustainable range of merchandise and the allocation of certain items to the British Airways Heritage Centre.

The launch of British Airways’ new uniform collection signifies a significant milestone in the airline’s commitment to modernisation, practicality and sustainability.


Dave

Which airlines are best at getting you there on time?

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The world’s best airlines – according to on-time performance – have been revealed.

For the first time in the 14-year history of Cirium’s On-Time Performance, a Latin American airline has achieved the remarkable feat of winning the global mainline award.

On time: Azul took first place, globally

Azul Airlines has received the prestigious title of the most punctual airline globally and in Latin America, securing the top position in both the Mainline and Network classifications.

Maintaining an exceptional track record, the Brazilian carrier demonstrated an impressive punctuality rate of 88.93% within the Global Mainline Category. Similarly, it achieved remarkable punctuality rates of 88.93% within the Latin America Mainline category and 88.37% in the Network category.

To celebrate their remarkable accomplishments, an award ceremony was held on 1 March at Sao Paulo’s Viracopos Airport.

During the ceremony, Jeremy Bowen, the CEO of Cirium, had the honor of presenting Azul Airlines’ awards to John Rodgerson, the CEO of Azul Airlines, as well as a group of eight dedicated frontline staff members who exemplify Azul’s commitment to on-time performance. Mike Malik, the Chief Marketing Officer of Cirium, and Lydia Webb, the Marketing Director of Cirium, were also present to witness the occasion. Additionally, the event was graced by the presence of government officials from Brazil and members of the Brazilian press. 

Jeremy Bowen said

Congratulations to Azul for its excellent performance in Cirium’s 2022 On-Time Performance Review, as well as for its success in Latin America, getting its passengers to their destinations on time as the sector revived during 2022

At Cirium we have a team that is passionate about airline operations. Many have decades of airline experience; we understand the complexity and challenge of getting people to their destinations safely and on-time.  Ramping back up operations so quickly after an enforced slowdown is not easy to do and the top-ranked airlines in Cirium’s 2022 On-Time Performance Review deserve their recognition for this well-orchestrated achievement.

Azul’s award comes weeks after Europe’s most on-time airline was announced by Cirium.

Iberia has been named Europe’s most punctual Mainline and Network airline.

A tiempo: Iberia and Iberia Express named among Europe’s most punctual airlines

Iberia Express has also received an award alongside its parent company, ranking third in the Europe Mainline airline category. An award ceremony took place at the Fitur 2023 – International Tourism Trade Fair in Madrid, Spain, to commemorate their outstanding achievements.

Mike Malik, Cirium’s Chief Marketing Officer, presented Iberia’s award to Javier Sánchez-Prieto, Chief Executive Officer of Iberia, and the Iberia Express award was presented to Carlos Gómez, Chief Executive Officer of Iberia Express. Rafael Jimenez Hoyos, Head of Production at Iberia, was also in attendance.

Malik said

Operational excellence is in Iberia’s DNA, but it is not limited to them, and is shared with Iberia Express.  Iberia Express is another high performer who was frequently among the best of the best in low-cost carriers finished strong in 2022 taking the number three most on-time European mainline airlines. The responsibility for this excellent performance is the hard work of every employee at Iberia and Iberia Express.

According to Cirium’s 2022 On-Time Performance review, Iberia demonstrated an impressive punctuality rate of 85.87% within the European Mainline category and 86.60% for the Europe Network.

In the same vein, Iberia Express achieved an on-time performance score of 83.80% for the Europe Mainline category.

Expressing gratitude to the representatives of the 17,000 Iberia employees present Javier Sánchez-Prieto, the CEO of Iberia acknowledged and appreciated their contributions in the airline’s day-to-day operations, particularly in navigating the challenges faced by the aviation industry in recent times.

He said,

Punctuality is the most evident symbol of the cultural change in Iberia and the good labor climate that we have maintained over the last eight years. Together with the good performance of Spanish airports, the commitment of our employees has been key to reaching this milestone in a particularly difficult year in the European and US airports where we operate. My sincere thanks to all Iberia employees for their enormous involvement in this great achievement and also thanks to Cirium for transforming and helping the aviation community monitor, manage and meet our goals.


Elsewhere, the Middle East and Africa award was announced in London this month.

Oman Air has been awarded the title of the most punctual mainline airline in the Middle East and Africa region.

With a remarkable achievement, Oman Air attained an exceptional punctuality rate of 91.38% within the Mainline Category of the Middle East and Africa region. This outstanding performance was accomplished as the airline expanded its operations to cater to the increased demand for the 2022 World Cup traffic.

To celebrate their remarkable achievement, an award presentation ceremony was held on 30 April at the headquarters of Oman Air in Muscat, Oman.

In Japan, the airlines and airports continue to demonstrate exceptional punctuality, ensuring passengers reach their arrival gates on time.

Cirium’s CEO, Jeremy Bowen, accompanied by Mieko Kosaka, Cirium’s Sales Manager, extended their congratulations to airline and airport officials for their outstanding accomplishments and presented them with the On-Time Performance awards.

All Nippon Airways (ANA), the prominent Japanese airline, has been named the most punctual airline in both the Global and Asia Pacific regions within the Network category. ANA achieved an impressive punctuality rate of 89.79% in the Global Network Category and maintained exceptional punctuality within the Asia Pacific Network category. The award ceremony took place on 29 March at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, where Mr. Shinichi Inoue, Representative Director, President, and CEO of ANA, Mr. Katsuo Yokoyama, Member of the Board of Directors and Senior Executive Vice President, Mr. Yoichi Katsuoka, Executive Vice President (President of ANA WINGS CO., LTD.), and Mr. Hideki Mineguchi, President & Chief Executive Officer, received the awards.

StarFlyer Airlines, recognized as the most punctual low-cost carrier, achieved an extraordinary punctuality rate of 95.23%. A ceremony was held on 28 March at Kitakyushu Airport in Japan to celebrate StarFlyer’s remarkable achievement and acknowledge its global excellence in On-Time Performance in 2022. The award was received by Mr. Osamu Machida, President and CEO of StarFlyer.

Additionally, Japanese airports secured top positions in all categories (Global, Large, Medium, and Small) for their exceptional punctuality performance. Award ceremonies were conducted during the final week of March at each respective airport location, commemorating their outstanding accomplishments.

Dave

South African Airways to expand fleet and relaunch international routes

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South African Airways (SAA) has announced plans to lease six new Airbus aircraft, including a wide-body plane, to expand its fleet, relaunch international routes, and increase seat capacity for regional and domestic destinations, offering new business opportunities for UK-based travellers.

South African Airways has been given the green light to expand its fleet with the approval of a plan to lease six new aircraft by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Public Enterprises.

The expansion is aimed at paving the way for the national carrier to relaunch international routes and increase seat capacity for its regional and domestic destinations.

Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, expressed his excitement about the development, stating that the aircraft will be delivered before the end of this calendar year and will include a wide-body aircraft as well as five narrow-body aircraft, all of them Airbus equipment.

He said,

We are excited, as SAA, to lay the groundwork for the relaunch of our first international route since coming out of business rescue and since the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. We will announce the new route in the coming few weeks, and we will open commercial marketing and sales for it

The terms and conditions attached to the deals for the new aircraft are along the same competitive, transparent, and cost-effective lines that have characterised the ‘new’ SAA since it emerged from Business Rescue in September 2021, Lamola added.

The four aircraft that we are ordering will all be deployed by September 2023. This is a significant boost for the domestic and regional markets and underscores our commitment to expanding our route network and increasing our frequency in the African market. It will also ensure that the equilibrium between the supply of seats and the flow of traffic will benefit our passengers.

The move is set to benefit UK-based business travellers who will have greater access to African markets, including South Africa.

Commenting on the development, Professor John Lamola said

This expansion represents a significant boost for the African market and underscores our commitment to expanding our route network and increasing our frequency. With this new fleet, we are confident that we will offer our customers a world-class flying experience, with the highest levels of safety and comfort. We are excited to be able to relaunch our first international route since the pandemic, and we look forward to welcoming business travellers from the UK to explore the many business opportunities that Africa has to offer.

The airline is also currently inviting proposals for four A320 narrow-body aircraft, with the other two, an A330 and A320, having already been secured from the lessor community on the same terms as the ones issued in the RFP.

Dave

Air New Zealand introduces Skynest Sleep Pods for Economy passengers

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Air New Zealand has announced the launch of Skynest, the world’s first sleep pods in the sky, which will be available from September 2024.

The airline is responding to overwhelming customer feedback on the importance of sleep and the need for more comfort and space during long-haul flights.

The Skynest will be a six-pod configured sleep zone located between Premium Economy and Economy cabins. It will provide economy passengers with the opportunity to lie flat and rest during longer flights, adding more flexibility to the economy travel experience.

Each Skynest pod will include a full-size pillow, sheets and blanket, earplugs, a separate reading light, personal device USB outlet, ventilation outlet, and lighting designed for rest. The bedding will be changed between each session, and a 30-minute transition time will be allowed for this. The lights will gently come on at the end of each session, and crew will politely wake any passengers who sleep through this. Each passenger will be limited to one session, with families travelling on the same ticket able to book a session for each passenger, pending availability.

The Skynest concept has been a world-first since it was first announced in 2020.

Skynest: the world’s first sleep pods in the sky, offering economy passengers a new way to rest on long-haul flights

Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty says Skynest is going to be a real game changer, adding more flexibility to the economy travel experience. Skynest provides economy passengers with another opportunity to lie flat and rest during longer flights, making it a particularly attractive option for UK-based business travellers.

Air New Zealand’s new Dreamliners, due to arrive in 2024, will provide “the most choice of any airline in the world”, offering the best sleep in the sky regardless of the cabin customers choose to fly in.

The new cabin experience has been driven by innovation from nose to tail, and the Skynest is just one of the exciting new offerings. The interior design of the cabin is inspired by the uniqueness of Aotearoa, the Maori name for New Zealand, so customers will experience New Zealand as soon as they step onboard.

The new cabin experience includes a new Business Premier Luxe suite, a new Business Premier seat, and the Skynest. The Business Premier Luxe seat is designed for customers looking for more space and privacy, while the Skynest is the world’s first sleep pods in the sky for economy travellers.

For economy customers, the Skynest concept may well be a game changer.

Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran points to the airline’s ambition to create the greatest flying experience, and the new cabin, combined with world-leading Kiwi hospitality, is the winning formula.

Sustainability has been at the heart of the design process, and the use of modern fabrics has saved around one kilogram in weight per Business Premier and Premium Economy seat, reducing overall carbon emissions.

Air New Zealand’s Skynest is set to revolutionise the economy travel experience, providing a game-changing option for UK-based business travellers. With Skynest, Air New Zealand is offering the most choice of any airline in the world, providing the best sleep in the sky regardless of the cabin customers choose to fly in. The Skynest is just one of the exciting new offerings in the airline’s innovative new cabin experience, which includes a new Business Premier Luxe suite, a new Business Premier seat, and other options for customers looking for more space and privacy.

Dave

British Airways celebrates the Coronation of King Charles III with royal treatment for passengers

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As the United Kingdom prepares to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III, British Airways is joining in the festivities by offering its customers a royal experience both on the ground and in the air.

British Airways has teamed up with VisitBritain to welcome visitors with a giant mural on the London Heathrow flight path. The mural was designed by local children and is located in Thornbury Park in Hounslow.

Eton Mess: British Airways will be serving bespoke popcorn to lucky passengers

The two young artists, Jasmine Prajapati and Raya Prajapati, aged 9 and 12 respectively, sketched the designs around the theme of ‘a natural world,’ which is a passion of the King’s and a key theme of the King’s Coronation emblem.

The airline is also offering a celebratory flight on 5 May, which will be operated by a crew of Charles, Camilla, and variants of their names.

Customers onboard the flight from Heathrow to Cape Town, in South Africa, a Commonwealth member state, will be looked after by a team of ten cabin crew, including three people called Camilla, five called Charles, a Kamila, and a Millie. The 777-200 aircraft will be flown by three pilots called Charles.

Customers with the surname ‘King’ or ‘Queen’ departing from Heathrow or Gatwick on 6 May will receive the royal treatment with access to the airline’s luxury lounges.

At 35,000 feet, British Airways is offering customers bespoke Eton mess popcorn and Coronation-themed desserts, including a bespoke lemon and white chocolate Coronation tart, an afternoon tea with a trio of royal desserts, and a lemon and white chocolate mousse topped with a chocolate crown, inspired by King Charles’ well-known love of lemon cream. Customers will also be able to watch a live stream of the Coronation through onboard WiFi.

First name terms: BA cabin crew

To mark this historic occasion, British Airways has partnered with The Prince’s Trust to offer 11 young adults spaces on one of the airline’s apprenticeship schemes.

The airline is also an official business sponsor of The Big Help Out, a voluntary initiative aimed at raising awareness and providing volunteering opportunities for people throughout the UK.

Lisa Tremble, British Airways’ Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, said,

We are excited to be able to celebrate this significant moment in history.

As Britain’s flag carrier, we are proud to be welcoming visitors to our home and celebrating with our customers on board, offering a selection of Coronation-themed surprises to mark the occasion.

We are also celebrating with our fantastic colleagues across our airports and offices and crewing a flight full of colleagues called Charles and Camilla, so it will definitely be a weekend we won’t forget!

British Airways’ celebrations will add to the excitement and joy of the Coronation celebrations. With their exceptional service and unique offerings, the airline continues to maintain its reputation as a premier airline in the United Kingdom.

So, whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, British Airways is the perfect way to join in the Coronation celebrations and experience a royal welcome fit for a king or queen.

Dave

Flydubai unveils new Premium Business Class seat with enhanced comfort and privacy

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Dubai-based airline flydubai, has announced the launch of its latest premium business class seat, the Business Suite. This new product is designed to provide passengers with added comfort, privacy and an exceptional onboard experience.

The Business Suite, which has been exclusively designed for single-aisle aircraft, represents the latest evolution in flydubai’s Business Class offering. The carrier plans to introduce ten of these suites on some of its newest aircraft before the end of 2023.

Business Suite: the first aircraft featuring the new Business Suite is expected to join the flydubai fleet in November

The new seat will offer all passengers in Business Class direct aisle access, rivaling the Business Class experience on many wide-body aircraft.

Flydubai is the launch customer for this new seat. Close collaboration with Safran Seats, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft seats, and JPA Design, a multinational design company operating in the transportation, interiors, and product design arenas, has resulted in a uniquely flydubai and best-in-class Business Class seating product.

The Business Suite features enhanced privacy and comfort, making it an ideal choice for business travellers seeking a premium travel experience.

With its elegant design and spacious layout, passengers can enjoy a relaxing and productive journey, with a range of features and amenities that include a fully-flat bed, in-flight entertainment, and ample storage space for personal belongings.

Furthermore, the direct aisle access ensures that passengers can easily move around the cabin without disturbing others. This feature is particularly beneficial for business travellers who need to work on the go, as it provides easy access to the cabin crew and allows them to remain productive throughout their flight.

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said:

flydubai is committed to exceeding expectations. Our business and product offerings have evolved from the initial no-frills model over the past 14 years to cater to the ever-growing needs of our customers and the markets we operate to. We have come a long way since the introduction of our first Business Class offering in 2013, which has served us well. Today, we are proud to unveil a new premium product which rivals the Business Class experience offered by many airlines on wide-body aircraft. We will continue to invest in innovation to enhance the customer experience across our growing fleet.

Daniel Kerrison, Vice President of Inflight Product at flydubai, said:

The new business suite will take comfort on board to the next level. The increased height of the back-shell, a sliding suite door and direct aisle access for every passenger create a level of privacy never before seen on Boeing 737s.

We have been working with Safran Seats and JPA Design over the past three years to develop an experience that meets the growing demand for premium air travel services across our network, offering passengers wide-body comfort on our narrow-body fleet.”

Flydubai’s latest premium business class offering is tailored to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of UK-based business travellers.

The carrier’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality travel experience that combines style, comfort and functionality.

The Business Suite represents a significant upgrade to flydubai’s existing Business Class offering, providing enhanced privacy, comfort, and an exceptional onboard experience. With its range of features and amenities, including a fully-flat bed, in-flight entertainment, and direct aisle access, the Business Suite is should become a favourite among discerning business travellers.

Victoria Foy, CEO of Safran Seats, said,

We are very excited to have flydubai as our launch customer for flydubai’s “The Business Suite” VUE seat, it has been an exciting journey working together to bring this product to the market for the first time on a Boeing aircraft. flydubai will operate with an outstanding Business Class seat designed for the best onboard experience on single-aisle longer haul flights.

In summary, the Business Suite is a welcome addition to flydubai’s already impressive Business Class offering, providing passengers with enhanced comfort, privacy and an exceptional onboard experience.