Dave

Empowering UK business travel: introducing British Airways NDC

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Global Travel Management is excited to announce a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of corporate travel management – the integration of British Airways NDC (New Distribution Capability) content via the Travelport+ Platform.

This pioneering development, launched in August 2023, opens up new horizons for enhanced travel experiences for our UK-based business travellers.

Scott Pawley: a monumental leap in our commitment to manage corporate travel

NDC: A Technological Leap Forward

NDC, or New Distribution Capability, represents a cutting-edge technology that transforms the way airlines distribute their content. Through NDC, airlines can provide enriched and personalised offerings directly to travel agencies and corporations.

At Global Travel Management, we’ve been at the forefront of this technological evolution, having successfully harnessed NDC with various airlines, including Lufthansa, for several years.

Years of Experience in NDC

We are steeped in experience with NDC. Global Travel Management stands at the forefront of revolutionising travel experiences.

Our journey with NDC spans alpha and beta testing phases, having been invited to collaborate closely with industry leaders to refine this groundbreaking technology. This experience has positioned us as trailblazers, shaping the NDC landscape through meticulous testing and innovative application.

Our track record includes seamless deployments across multiple airlines, including industry giants like Lufthansa. This industry-leading experience underscores our commitment to delivering the best of NDC to our clients, ensuring that every interaction is an opportunity to redefine travel management.

Paul Baker: clients not only flying, but soaring

British Airways Joins the NDC Revolution

Now, we’re thrilled to expand our NDC capabilities to encompass British Airways.

As of August 2023, Global Travel Management can seamlessly access British Airways’ NDC content via the Travelport+ Platform, specifically catering to the UK and Ireland markets. This marks a significant milestone in elevating the travel experience for UK-based business travellers, as British Airways holds a pivotal role in their journeys.

Travelport+: Empowering Seamless Travel Management

The Travelport+ Platform empowers all Global Travel Management travel consultants to employ British Airways NDC content for the benefit of every Global Travel Management corporate customer.

How do UK corporate customers benefit?

  • Access to the latest, lowest and most appropriate fares.
  • The best fares available both offline (by having Global Travel Management consultants book travel) and online (via the online booking tool, GTM Online).
  • No need to “shop around” for the lowest fares.
  • Timely notifications for schedule changes.
  • “Hold my booking” options.
  • Seamless frequent flyer information exchanged with each booking.
  • …and many more benefits.

Scott Pawley, Global Travel Management managing director said.

Embracing British Airways NDC content through the Travelport+ Platform is a monumental leap in our commitment to manage corporate travel. This dynamic integration empowers our customers with a spectrum of advantages that align seamlessly with their evolving needs. From expanded ancillary choices that amplify travel comfort to streamlined functionalities for enhanced convenience, this collaboration with British Airways marks a pivotal moment in our journey to deliver unparalleled value to our clients. With NDC, we’re not just booking flights; we’re crafting elevated travel experiences that resonate with the demands of modern business travelers.

Global Travel Management is thrilled to lead our clients into this exciting new era of travel management

As we continue to be at the forefront of technological innovations, we are dedicated to enhancing our customers’ travel experiences. Our commitment to delivering exceptional service remains unwavering.

Paul Baker, Global Travel Management sales director said,

At Global Travel Management, our mission has always been centered around our clients – their comfort, convenience, and success. The integration of British Airways NDC content on the Travelport+ Platform is a game-changer in how we cater to our customers’ travel needs.

With this advanced capability, our clients gain access to an expanded realm of options – from tailor-made ancillary offerings to a suite of user-friendly functionalities.

This newfound synergy between Global Travel Management, British Airways, and NDC technology means our clients are not only flying, but soaring with a travel experience that’s truly tailored to them.

We’re excited to offer this enhanced journey and look forward to elevating our customers’ business travel with every step they take

Global Travel Management is excited about the doors that NDC technology with British Airways opens for our clients.

The future of travel management is here, and we’re excited to continue to lead the way in offering unparalleled convenience and customisation for business journeys.

Dave

London City Airport elevates travel dining: SSP Group’s contract extension brings fusion flavours to departure lounge

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SSP Group extends London City Airport contract, unveiling diverse new dining concepts in £12 million Departure Lounge upgrade for modern business travellers.

Leading global operator of travel location food and beverage outlets, SSP Group, has announced a significant seven-year contract extension at London City Airport.

This partnership renewal accompanies a £12 million transformation of the Departure Lounge, introducing a range of innovative gastronomic experiences tailored to meet the discerning tastes of contemporary business travellers.

At the heart of this development lies SSP Group’s pioneering concept, Hithes.

Making its debut within the airport, Hithes encapsulates the vibrant tapestry of London’s multicultural cuisine, skillfully curated into a menu that traverses the city’s diverse culinary realms.

From the ‘City Boys’ all-day breakfast to the fiery ‘Notting Hill’ jerk chicken and the aromatic ‘Best of Brick Lane’ chicken tikka masala, Hithes promises “a gastronomic odyssey across London’s iconic gastronomic hotspots”.

The establishment also proudly showcases an exceptional array of the capital’s finest beers, spirits and wines, inviting patrons to explore a world of unparalleled taste.

Reflecting the harmonious blend of metropolitan energy and timeless sophistication that defines London, Hithes seamlessly melds the charm of a traditional city pub with the contemporary allure of a London brasserie. The ambiance is elevated by glistening mirrors and an exquisite mural capturing the essence of London’s bustling food markets, meticulously crafted by the esteemed English artist, Edward Bawden.

Journeying through the gastronomic landscape of London, visitors are invited to experience Juniper & Co, an oasis of culinary excellence that seamlessly blends timeless British classics with exceptional specialities.

Embark on a culinary adventure with the decadent Juniper Burger, crowned with Sussex Charmer cheese fondue, or indulge in the exquisite ‘Foremans’ London cured smoked salmon and free-range poached eggs, nestled atop a delicate Paul Rhodes English muffin. The refined drinks menu spotlights locally-crafted gins, vintages and an array of artisanal beers.

Kari Daniels: some of the most exciting foods from across the capital

The centrepiece of the establishment is an elegant marble-finished bar, adorned with a contemporary brass gantry, offering a delightful focal point. Ensuring that all preferences are catered to, seating options span from regal high stools to plush armchairs, guaranteeing a bespoke experience for every traveller.

For health-conscious voyagers seeking nourishing alternatives, the forthcoming summer of 2023 heralds the arrival of Soul & Grain, a haven of freshness nestled on the landside.

This ‘fresh-to-go’ haven pledges a delectable assortment of vegetarian, vegan, and indulgent delights, accompanied by the renowned offerings of London City’s very own Extract Coffee Roasters.

Embracing SSP Group’s commitment to sustainability, Soul & Grain is steadfast in its use of locally-sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, exemplifying the brand’s dedication to ethical practices.

Kari Daniels, CEO SSP UK & Ireland said;

SSP has a long-standing relationship with London City Airport, spanning 20 years.

We’re delighted to be bringing new concepts to London City passengers and have worked in close partnership with the airport to deliver a truly local, London experience.

These concepts will give guests an opportunity to sample some of the most exciting foods from across the capital.

London City Airport Chief Executive Officer, Robert Sinclair, said:

This new investment in food & beverage outlets at London City Airport by SSP will be welcomed by our passengers and we can’t wait for our passengers to experience the new and improved food offerings at the airport, especially the London-focused food and drink brands.

As London City Airport undergoes this dynamic metamorphosis, SSP Group is aiming to confirm its dedication to elevating the travel experience, presenting a medley of culinary delights that capture the spirit of London’s culinary diversity.

This extension and the grand unveiling of these innovative concepts are set to redefine the landscape of London’s international business travel, ensuring that each voyage is punctuated by unforgettable gastronomic encounters.

Dave

London Stansted marks 80 years of pioneering aviation legacy, connecting business travellers to the world

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London Stansted Airport is celebrating the remarkable 80-year milestone of its runway, a testament to its enduring history, dating back to its time as a US Air Force airfield in World War II.

Originally christened as George Washington Field, the airfield took flight in 1943 and quickly evolved into a vital asset in the war effort. Emerging as the 9th largest U.S. Air Force base in East Anglia, the site provided a strategic home to four B-26 Marauder squadrons hailing from the illustrious 344th Bomb Group, famously dubbed the ‘Silver Streaks’.

While its complete operational readiness was achieved in the summer of 1943, the runway saw its first unexpected guest on February 26, 1943, as a battle-scarred RAF Short Sterling bomber executed an emergency landing following an intense air raid mission.

The ‘Silver Streaks’ soared to heroic heights on D-Day, leading a fleet of 600 aircraft over the shores of France and earning the esteemed Distinguished Unit Citation for their valiant efforts.

Throughout its tenure, the airfield orchestrated a remarkable 140 missions under the banner of the bomb group before making its transition to France at the close of 1944.

Aerial shot: RAF Stansted Mountfitchet in 1947

Post-war, the Civil Aviation Authority took charge, overseeing the transformation of the site into a bustling civilian airport.

Jet setters: The first jets arrived in the early 60s

Today, London Stansted thrives as the hub for prominent airlines like Ryanair, Jet2.com, and Emirates, boasting an expansive network of over 200 destinations spanning Europe and the Middle East.

Emerging as London’s third-busiest aviation gateway, the airport welcomes in excess of 26 million passengers annually.

Retaining its steadfast ties to the United States, Stansted’s runway has embraced the presence of Air Force One and several U.S. Presidents on seven momentous occasions since 2008, signifying enduring bonds between nations.

A testament to modern progress, the runway, which received a substantial extension in the 1950s to its present length of 3,048 meters, recently underwent an extensive refurbishment. Over the course of an ambitious five-month endeavor, engineers meticulously laid 50,000 tonnes of asphalt while replacing 700 runway lights with energy-efficient LEDs.

Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Gareth Powell, the Managing Director of London Stansted, remarked,

Stansted’s legacy hails from a pivotal era, with its wartime contributions and the evolution into a vibrant aviation hub. Today, we stand proud, acknowledging the profound impact of those early endeavors that have culminated in the thriving Stansted Airport we embrace today. The vision of US Engineers, unbeknownst to them at the time, laid the foundation for an iconic terminal that now serves millions of passengers annually.

Celebrating this illustrious 80-year journey, the airport has launched an engaging social media competition, inviting participants to vie for the chance to secure £800 in travel vouchers, an ideal way to explore the diverse tapestry of destinations that this historic runway now connects.

For further information and to participate, follow London Stansted on social media and join in the celebration of eight decades of aviation excellence.

Space Shuttle: On 5 June 1983, the shuttle touched down at the airport.
Dustin Hoffman: the Hollywood star shot scenes at Stansted for the movie Last Chance Harvey in 2008
Jolly Boy: Rodney Charlton Trotter won flights from Stansted thanks to his brother entering a painting competition on his behalf
Royal visit: In 1991, The Queen opened the £400m new terminal, aprons and taxiways
Presidential arrivals: since 2008, US Presidents have used Stansted for visits to the United Kingdom
State visit: in 2018, the then President of the United States arrived on a state visit
Love Island: reality contestants returning to Stansted
Terminal extension: 2023 artist’s impression of proposed extension to Stansted’s terminal building
Dave

More movies, more choice: British Airways doubles in-flight content

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British Airways has taken its commitment to customer satisfaction to new heights by doubling the array of entertainment options available on its in-flight entertainment system since the beginning of this year.

Aimed at enhancing the travel experience for UK-based business travellers, the airline now boasts an impressive collection of over 70 complete boxsets and 20 beloved franchises across all cabin classes, ensuring a diverse and engaging journey for passengers.

The airline has unveiled a captivating selection of new films, short movies, and more content.

However, the airline’s commitment to improvement extends beyond entertainment. British Airways has made noteworthy enhancements to its product offerings, with a particular focus on its lounge and on-board menus.

This comprehensive approach to passenger satisfaction reflects the airline’s dedication to delivering a seamless and enjoyable travel experience from start to finish.

Complete boxsets: BA now offers more than 70 boxset options onboard

From boxsets to blockbusters, British Airways has effectively doubled its in-flight entertainment content in 2023, encompassing a rich assortment of boxsets, movies, podcasts, and children’s programmes, among other options. This strategic move aligns with the airline’s vision to create a bespoke and fulfilling entertainment journey for every passenger.

Anticipating a remarkable viewership of over one million customers on its long-haul flights this month, British Airways now presents a staggering number of complete boxsets and 20 classic franchises for the month of August.

Movie aficionados will delight in more than 50 new releases, including titles like “Paint,” “Love Again,” and “The Covenant.” And British Airways has fostered an exclusive partnership with Paramount+, treating passengers to unique content such as “Rabbit Hole: The Algorithms of Control,” “The Flatshare,” and “Grease: Rise of The Pink Ladies.”

Cinephiles will find solace in movie boxsets featuring legendary series like Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, and Mission Impossible. Such in-flight entertainment offerings promise hours of immersive entertainment, allowing passengers to indulge in beloved blockbusters while soaring through the skies.

For those with a penchant for auditory delights, British Airways provides over 770 audio options, including the popular “NewlyWeds” podcast starring Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo. Lovers of British comedy can relish in an array of British Original content, including highlights from the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, such as “The Fringe, Fame and Me” and “Just for Laughs.”

Calum Laming, Chief Customer Officer at British Airways, emphasised the significance of a diverse entertainment range, stating,

We understand the importance of offering a comprehensive range of entertainment options to our valued customers, elevating their journey experience. Our passengers eagerly anticipate this aspect of their travel, and we have dedicated ourselves to expanding the content available, doubling the choices at their fingertips.

Through collaborations with outstanding brands like Paramount+ and the creation of a dedicated British Original channel, we have curated an assortment that caters to every taste. From newly-released blockbuster films to engaging podcasts, there is something for everyone to relish during their summer flight.

Passengers eager to stream content on their personal devices can make the most of British Airways’ WiFi connectivity, with diverse packages available, including messaging and ‘browse and stream’ options. The airline is progressively equipping both its long-haul and short-haul fleet with WiFi, ensuring most aircraft are now interconnected.

On a culinary note, British Airways is elevating the dining experience for travellers journeying to Delhi and Mumbai from London Heathrow, encompassing both outbound and inbound flights. This enhancement includes the introduction of comprehensive secondary hot meals across all cabin classes. Club World (business class) passengers can savour an array of chilled snacks from the Club Kitchen.

From 9 August, a fresh snack option will debut in Euro Traveller (economy) – passengers can relish a choice between banana cake and a sultana flapjack, available on flights departing from London Heathrow and London Gatwick.

Ground services have not been overlooked in British Airways’ pursuit of excellence. The airline has invested in its lounge menus, presenting an enriched assortment of hot breakfasts, afternoon tea, and Great British Picnic treats at its Galleries lounges in London Heathrow and London Gatwick.

Furthermore, British Airways has revamped its à la carte First Dining with local specialties and a British Original offering at its US lounges. This includes an enticing selection of new cocktails, locally crafted beers, and other beverages.

In a recent development, British Airways unveiled the Whispering Angel bar at London Heathrow Terminal 5, treating customers to the renowned rosé originating from the Provence vineyards of Château d’Esclans. Summer holiday surprises abound, with seasonal menus, complimentary ice-cream for long-haul daytime flights from London Gatwick and London Heathrow in World Traveller (economy) and World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and the reintroduction of pre-takeoff bubbles in World Traveller Plus.

British Airways remains dedicated to delivering an unparalleled travel experience, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of its esteemed UK-based business travellers. With an expanded in-flight entertainment offering and a focus on culinary excellence, the airline continues to redefine air travel comfort and convenience.

Dave

Cheers to business adventures: Korean Air introduces KAL’s Lager

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For frequent business travellers, the monotony of long-haul flights and airport layovers can often leave one yearning for a refreshing and distinctive experience. In a remarkable collaboration with the award-winning Korean brewery, Playground Brewery, Korean Air has launched its latest masterpiece – ‘KAL’s Lager.’

This craft beer embodies the perfect harmony of tropical fruit aromas and a crisp, refreshing taste, promising to deliver a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.

With its exclusive availability at Korean Air’s lounges in Incheon and Gimpo International Airports from 27 July, and onboard flights starting in September, business travellers can now add a touch of indulgence to their journeys.

Korean Air’s KAL’s Lager stands as a testament to the airline’s commitment to elevating the overall travel experience for its discerning customers. Brewed in collaboration with Playground Brewery – renowned for its excellence in assembling distinct flavors – this craft beer promises to be more than just a drink; it’s a sensory journey that complements the excitement of travel.

The fusion of flavours creates a pleasant balance, making KAL’s Lager a delightful companion during those long hours spent on flights or navigating bustling airports. This unique craft beer aims to make business travel more enjoyable, offering moments of relaxation and indulgence amidst busy schedules.

Beyond its exceptional taste, KAL’s Lager introduces a novel packaging design, enhancing the connection to the world of travel.

Playground Brewery: Korean Air is introducing its own branded craft ‘KAL’s Lager’.

The can portrays an aircraft soaring gracefully against the backdrop of a serene blue sky, capturing the essence of adventure and wanderlust. Each time a traveller cracks open a can of KAL’s Lager, they are reminded of the exciting journey that awaits them.

Starting 27 July, business travellers can relish the exquisite taste of KAL’s Lager at Korean Air’s lounges in Incheon and Gimpo International Airports.

These luxurious lounges are the perfect settings for travellers to unwind before their flights and indulge in the premium experience offered by KAL’s Lager.

But the adventure doesn’t end at the lounge; from September onwards, passengers can continue enjoying this exceptional craft beer during their flights.

It’s a delightful treat that sets Korean Air apart, giving travellers another reason to appreciate the airline’s dedication to customer satisfaction.

For those looking to take the experience beyond their flights, KAL’s Lager will also be available for purchase exclusively at Emart24 convenience stores and through its mobile application. Now, business travellers can conveniently stock up on this exclusive craft beer to enjoy during their stay or to toast to successful business endeavors.

KAL’s Lager is set to elevate the journeys of business travellers, providing a delightful respite during their trips. Whether unwinding at Korean Air’s lounges, sipping on the beverage during flights, or simply enjoying it at leisure, KAL’s Lager offers a unique experience tailored to the discerning tastes of jet-setting business travellers. So, on your next Korean Air flight, you can raise a can of KAL’s Lager to the pursuit of adventure and the pleasures of business travel.


Dave

Dublin Airport gets new direct bus service to Belfast

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Getting to Dublin Airport from Belfast just got a whole lot easier with the launch by Dublin Express of a new direct service, which it is estimated will save in the region of 25,000 car journeys during July and August alone. 

Ireland’s Minister of State for Transport Jack Chambers was welcomed to the formal launch of the new service, which will have 16 trips per day in each direction with the first departure from Dublin City/Airport at 05:20/06:00 and last departure from Dublin City/Airport at 00:10 and 01:00.

Dublin Express has convenient pick up and drop off locations overall, with stops in Dublin at Burgh Quay, Westland Row and Custom House Quay, a stop right outside Dublin Airport Terminal 1 and a city centre stop in Glengall St, Belfast – five minutes from City Hall.

Dublin Express’ General Manager Rory Fitzgerald said:

The reaction to the Belfast route from Dublin City is amazing with huge demand from our two prime stops at Westland Row and Custom House Quay. We are bringing a new standard of luxury travel for people travelling to Belfast with pick up options southside of the city centre for the first time ever. When we announced the new service we were blown away by the response selling 14,000 tickets in just under five hours and sales have been going really well since. We estimate that in the first few weeks of operating we’ll be replacing over 25,000 car journeys between the two big cities on the island as a result of people booking to travel on our new service.

According to Miriam Ryan of daa, the operator of Dublin Airport:

The addition of this new route will make it much easier for thousands of passengers from Northern Ireland to get to and from Dublin Airport. A lot of our passengers live in and around the Belfast area and this new service is certain to prove very popular with them. As Ireland’s national airport, we’re fully committed to increasing the number of public transport options for our passengers and look forward to adding more services very soon.

Dave

Save time and hassle: British Airways introduces digital wayfinding for London Heathrow travel

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British Airways is unveiling its latest innovation to enhance the travel experience for its customers – the trial of its new digital wayfinding technology at London Heathrow Terminal 5 and Terminal 3.

Seamless navigation: ensuring a stress-free journey through the airport

The cutting-edge tool is designed to provide travellers with seamless navigation assistance, ensuring a stress-free journey through the bustling airport.

Navigating through a busy airport can be overwhelming, especially for business travellers who value time efficiency. Recognising this, British Airways has introduced the new wayfinding tool to offer maps of Terminal 5 and Terminal 3 at London Heathrow.

This innovative technology equips customers with the information they need to locate their departure gates effortlessly, as well as discover nearby amenities, such as shops, lounges, and restaurants.

The interactive map feature allows travellers to explore the airport layout, click on areas of interest, and obtain relevant information, including opening hours and available products.

Whether it’s finding a quick snack or locating the nearest restroom, the tool ensures that customers can access the amenities they need with ease.

For those with connecting flights, the wayfinding tool goes the extra mile by allowing users to input their inbound and connecting flight details. It then provides step-by-step instructions along with animated maps to guide travellers seamlessly from their arrival gate to their connecting flight’s departure gate. No more fretting about missed connections…

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, expressed his excitement about the new wayfinding tool:

We always want to make travelling through the airport as easy as possible for our customers, so we’re really excited to be trialling a new wayfinding tool this summer. The interactive map is simple to use, allowing our customers to easily locate their departure gates and discover nearby restaurants and shops for some last-minute duty-free shopping, and for those customers who are eligible, our lounges. Of course, our fantastic colleagues will still be on hand to help as well.

The trial, which began in June, is open to all customers travelling through London Heathrow.

To access the tool, travellers can simply scan QR codes on digital screens within the airport or visit wayfinding.maps.ba.com.

Wayfinding Tool: simple to use, allowing customers to locate their departure gates easily and discover nearby restaurants and shops
Dave

Chiltern Railways unveils transformative ‘Right Route’ Vision for 2030

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Chiltern Railways, a prominent UK-based train operator, has revealed its ambitious ‘Right Route’ to 2030 vision during a presentation in Westminster, engaging with key stakeholders and parliamentarians.

This strategic proposal outlines Chiltern’s commitment to delivering improved, environmentally friendly, and more efficient rail services through substantial investments in new trains over the next decade.

Greg Smith: MP for Buckingham and member of the Transport Select Committee

The comprehensive vision emerged from extensive research commissioned by Chiltern, seeking input from customers, stakeholders, and colleagues to envision the company’s trajectory by 2030.

The collective feedback emphasised the urgent need to modernize the network by introducing a new fleet of trains. Notably, statistics from the Office of Rail and Road underscored that Chiltern currently operates the third oldest trains by operator, with an average age of 28.9 years.

Richard Allan, Managing Director at Chiltern Railways, expressed the company’s determination to enhance the customer experience by 2030. He stated,

We are determined to provide an easier, greener and better experience for our customers by 2030.  
Replacing our ageing diesel fleet with new, environmentally-friendly trains is at the heart of our Right Route vision. This is needed to unlock essential benefits including more capacity and better quality for customers, improved air quality for all, and to support economic growth. 
We are looking forward to working with partners to make a strong economic case for the necessary investment to make our 2030 vision possible.

The Right Route 2030 report features endorsements from various stakeholders along the route, including VisitBritain, the West Midlands Rail Executive, Experience Oxfordshire, Baker Street Quarter Partnership, and Shakespeare’s England.

This broad support spans diverse sectors, from tourism to business groups, reflecting the widespread backing for Chiltern’s 2030 vision across all regions it serves.

Iain Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South and Chair of the Transport Select Committee, welcomed Chiltern Railways’ ambitious plans, emphasizing the importance of passenger input in shaping the design of new rolling stock. He said,

I welcome the ambition Chiltern Railways has set for the future and I look forward to working with them to help realise them. Chiltern has a strong track record in investing in the future, from the Total Route Modernisation back in the 1990s to the more recent Evergreen project to expand the network. 

I particularly welcome the planned investment in new and greener rolling stock. The views of current and future passengers should shape their design. Too often new trains are introduced which, while giving an improvement in performance, do not result in an upgrade to passenger comfort. This is a great opportunity for Chiltern to design a best in class new train interior.

Greg Smith, MP for Buckingham and Transport Select Committee member, expressed his pleasure in hosting Chiltern Railways in Parliament to discuss fleet modernisation.

Smith acknowledged the positive impact of Chiltern’s clear plan for fleet renewal in addressing crowding issues and enhancing the overall commuter experience.

It was a pleasure to host Chiltern Railways in Parliament to continue the discussion of how they modernise their fleet. There is no doubt that ageing trains are leading to some of the crowding issues my constituents are enduring and this clear plan to fleet renewal is very welcome.

As part of its forward-looking strategy, Chiltern, owned by Arriva, is set to invite proposals from manufacturers for new trains.

These would replace the 33-year-old diesel fleet, primarily operating on the commuter route between Aylesbury and London.

Proposals may include innovative solutions like battery or battery-electric hybrid trains.

Denise Wetton, Network Rail’s Central route director, voiced full support for Chiltern Railways’ Right Route 2030. She highlighted the importance of collaboration to ensure that the infrastructure aligns and remains fit for the future through a comprehensive modernisation program.

For further information on Chiltern Railways’ routes, fares and timetables for business travel, please reach out to your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Introducing Ecojet: emission-free air travel powered by renewable energy

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The world’s first electric airline is set to revolutionise business travel with its retrofitted hydrogen-electric planes, offering emission-free journeys powered by renewable energy.

Ecojet, the groundbreaking brainchild of Ecotricity founder Dale Vince,will launch as the world’s inaugural Electric Airline, ushering in a new era of sustainable and emission-free air travel.

Aviation revolution: the world’s first electric airline powered by renewable energy

This monumental development paves the way for net-zero journeys, ensuring a greener future for business travellers.

Ecojet’s fleet will consist of retrofitted conventional aircraft equipped with cutting-edge hydrogen-electric powertrains.

This transformation will enable these planes to maintain their original power output while achieving a remarkable 100% reduction in CO2 emissions.

Unlike building entirely new aircraft, the decision to repurpose existing planes should yield extraordinary environmental benefits, saving a staggering 90,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

Moreover, the only byproduct generated will be water, which can be captured and released into the lower atmosphere, effectively mitigating the detrimental effects of contrails.

In collaboration with seasoned pilot Brent Smith and a team of accomplished aviation specialists, Dale Vince has spearheaded the establishment of Ecojet.

The airline is scheduled to commence operations in early 2024, with initial flights operating on the Edinburgh to Southampton route. Subsequently, Ecojet plans to expand its services to mainland Europe, while long-haul flights are also envisioned for the future.

Ecojet is committed to adopting further innovative measures on board to reduce the aviation industry’s ecological footprint. These include serving plant-based meals, eliminating single-use plastic, and equipping the staff with environmentally-friendly uniforms. By implementing these radical changes, Ecojet aims to make a lasting positive impact.

The aviation sector currently contributes approximately 3% of global CO2 emissions, but its overall climate impact is estimated to be three times higher due to the release of fossil fuel pollution at high altitudes. Ecojet’s ground-breaking initiative aims to eliminate this colossal negative impact, setting the stage for the aviation industry to embrace electric planes on a larger scale. Ecojet is poised to lead this transformation, with the airline estimating it is a decade ahead of its industry counterparts in pioneering what Dale Vince describes as “the biggest revolution in the aviation industry since the invention of the jet engine.”

To secure routes and obtain the necessary license from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Ecojet will initially launch using conventionally-fueled planes as a short-term measure.

Ecojet: passenger-carrying planes powered by electricity

The airline will deploy two types of retrofitted turboprop aircraft (19-seat and 70-seat variants) to commence operations.

These aircraft will subsequently be fitted with hydrogen-electric powertrains once approved for service by the CAA, with the retrofitting process commencing in 2025, a year after the launch of flights.

Dale Vince shares his vision, stating,

The question of how to create sustainable air travel has long plagued the green movement. Ecojet represents the most significant stride toward a solution to date. The innate human desire to explore our incredible world will finally be fulfilled without causing harm, as we embark on flights that are free from CO2 emissions and powered by renewable energy.

With Ecojet’s visionary approach and commitment to a sustainable future, the landscape of business travel is set to be revolutionised, making every journey an opportunity to protect and preserve our planet.


Dave

Simplified Avios collection: British Airways unveils game-changing benefits for UK business travellers

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British Airways has announced a revolutionary change to the way Avios points are collected by Executive Club Members, effective from 18th October 2023.

This update introduces a transparent, consistent, and simplified approach, specifically suitable for UK-based business travellers.

Under the new collection model, Members will now have the opportunity to earn up to nine Avios points for every £1 spent, based on their Tier status. This innovative system ensures that the more one invests in their travel experience, the more Avios points they will accumulate.

Furthermore, British Airways has introduced additional enhancements that allow Members to collect Avios points on ancillary purchases. Starting from the same date, Members can earn Avios points when choosing upgrades and pre-paid seat selections. This serves as a recognition and reward for their loyalty beyond the flight itself.

This groundbreaking change means that, for the first time, British Airways customers can collect Avios points on a wider range of purchases, including upgrades, pre-paid seat selections and even excess baggage fees.

The amount of Avios points collected will be based on the amount spent rather than the distance travelled, ensuring a consistent and transparent approach that Members will appreciate.

From 18th October 2023, Members will enjoy the following Avios point accrual rates based on their Tier status:

  • Blue members 6 Avios points per qualifying* £1 spent
  • Bronze members 7 Avios points per qualifying £1 spent
  • Silver members 8 Avios points per qualifying £1 spent
  • Gold members 9 Avios points per qualifying £1 spent

It’s important to note that this enhanced collection model will also apply to flights marketed by our valued partner, Iberia**.

Ian Romanis, Director of Retail and Customer Relationship Management at British Airways, expressed his enthusiasm for these changes,

We value our customers’ feedback and ideas, which inspire us to evolve our Executive Club. Our updated system offers a simplified and transparent approach, providing more opportunities than ever to collect Avios points. By rewarding loyalty based on our customers’ cash spend, we’re adopting a proven model used by several global airlines, including our sister airline, Iberia.

This update to the collection model is the latest in a series of improvements to the Executive Club, demonstrating British Airways’ commitment to continuously enhance the loyalty programme for esteemed Members. Earlier this year, Avios-Only flights were introduced, with 100% of seats exclusively available to Members as Reward Seats. The overwhelming response was evident when the first Avios-Only flight to Sharm El Sheikh sold out within 24 hours.

In addition to flights, Executive Club Members have the opportunity to accumulate Avios points in various aspects of everyday life.

Whether it’s spending with the British Airways American Express Credit Card, travelling with Uber, converting Nectar points, or shopping on the British Airways Avios eStore, the possibilities to earn and maximise Avios points are almost endless.

Paul Baker: fantastic opportunity for GTM customers

Paul Baker, Sales Director of GTM explained how customers should automate their collection of Avios,

This is a great opportunity for you to add to your collection of Avios.

You should make sure that GTM has your BA Executive Club membership details so we can ensure each qualifying flight is immediately rewarded with Avios accrued to your account.

For more information, please visit the British Airways website.

*Qualifying spend refers to eligible purchases that contribute to Avios point accrual.
**The new collection model also applies to flights marketed by Iberia, British Airways’ partner airline.