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Dave

Norse Atlantic Airways introduces flights from Gatwick to Los Angeles and San Francisco

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Norse Atlantic Airways, the pioneering low-cost long-haul airline, has announced the launch of its services to Los Angeles and San Francisco from London Gatwick.

The new direct routes mark the fifth and sixth destinations to the US from Norse Atlantic’s London base, solidifying its position as the largest long haul operator to the US from London Gatwick.

Bjørn Tore Larsen: proud to offer an affordable and convenient way to explore these two iconic cities

Travellers now have affordable and convenient options to explore the vibrant cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco from the United Kingdom.

With fares starting from £460 return, including taxes and fees, passengers can embark on their West Coast adventures without breaking the bank.

Bjørn Tore Larsen, CEO Norse Atlantic Airways said,

Los Angeles and San Francisco have now become the fifth and sixth destinations to the US from our London base.

With the addition of these two destinations Norse Atlantic is now the largest long haul operator to the US from London Gatwick.

We are proud to offer an affordable and convenient way to explore these two iconic cities and experience the renowned sights and cultural landmarks that make each destination unique.

From the picturesque beauty of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge and the bustling streets of Fisherman’s Wharf to the magic of Hollywood and the famous Santa Monica Beach, these two destinations have something for everyone.

Flights to Los Angeles from London Gatwick operate daily, with departure at 10:35 and arrival at 14:10 on the same day. Return flights from Los Angeles depart at 14:25 and arrive at 11:00 the following day. Economy fares start from £460 return, including all taxes and fees.

For travellers heading to San Francisco, flights from London Gatwick operate three times a week. Departure is at 10:10, with arrival at 13:25 on the same day. Return flights from San Francisco depart at 15:25 and arrive at 09:50 the following day. Economy fares start from £455 return, including all taxes and fees.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Norse Atlantic exclusively operates the Dreamliner

Norse Atlantic exclusively operates modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for passengers.

Each seat is equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment, allowing travellers to relax and unwind during their journey. In addition, Norse Atlantic offers two cabin choices: Economy and Norse Premium. The Norse Premium cabin boasts an industry-leading 43″ seat pitch and 12″ recline, ensuring passengers arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

Passengers can select from a range of fare options, including Light, Classic, and Flextra, which cater to their individual travel preferences and needs. Light fares represent Norse’s value option, while Flextra fares offer additional benefits such as increased baggage allowance, two meal services, an enhanced airport and onboard experience, and greater ticket flexibility.

With the launch of these new routes, Norse Atlantic Airways continues to redefine long-haul travel by providing UK-based business travellers with affordable and convenient connections to key US destinations. Whether it’s for business or leisure, the airline offers an enticing gateway to the bustling cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Book your tickets today and embark on a memorable journey with Norse Atlantic Airways.

Norse Atlantic Airways is a pioneering low-cost long-haul airline based in London Gatwick. With a focus on providing affordable and convenient travel options, Norse Atlantic operates modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for passengers. The airline offers two cabin choices, Economy and Norse Premium, and a range of fare options to cater to travellers’ preferences.

Dave

British Airways and Heathrow team up with London Wildlife Trust to enhance nature reserves

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British Airways and Heathrow have joined forces in a new partnership with London Wildlife Trust to embark on a significant conservation and outreach project.

The initiative, titled ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon,’ will focus on protecting and improving seven nature reserves and country parks in the Hillingdon area of west London.

This collaboration marks the largest corporate partnership to date for the London Wildlife Trust.

Bisected: Yeading Brook Meadows is a large green open space, divided by the Yeading Brook

The project aims to preserve and enhance the natural habitats within the region, ensuring that Hillingdon residents can appreciate and enjoy the abundant wildlife that surrounds them.

The selected sites for this initiative include Minet Country Park, Cranford Country Park, Huckerby’s Meadows, Yeading Brook Meadows, Ten Acre Wood, Gutteridge Woods, and Ickenham Marsh.

Through their joint investment, British Airways and Heathrow will support the project’s endeavors, which include various conservation activities and community engagement initiatives.

Working closely with Hillingdon Council, the project will also provide volunteering opportunities for individuals to actively contribute to the preservation and maintenance of these sites.

Hillingdon boasts numerous hidden treasures where residents and visitors can encounter fascinating wildlife such as kingfishers and kestrels along the picturesque Yeading Brook and Crane River.

Minet Country Park: 36-hectare park, originally part of the Coldharbour Estate, owned by the Minet family from 1766 to the mid-20th century

As part of the project, the London Wildlife Trust will oversee conservation efforts, including cattle grazing, path and fence maintenance, habitat restoration, new planting, and wildlife surveying.

To ensure effective progress monitoring, the project will recruit a ranger who will work closely with volunteers to safeguard and manage the sites.

Recruitment for these exciting opportunities will be announced shortly.

Additionally, the project will organise regular events, including guided walks and outdoor learning sessions, to facilitate the reconnection of residents with their local green spaces.

Mary Brew, Head of Community Investment and Responsible Business at British Airways, expressed pride in the BA Better World Community Fund. Over the past year, the fund has provided support to over 170 charities and organisations throughout the UK.

Mary Brew said,

This latest partnership with London Wildlife Trust is another brilliant project we’re delighted to support through the Community Fund. We’re looking forward to seeing ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon’ deliver its programme of community engagement activities and volunteering opportunities across the borough.

Becky Coffin, Communities and Sustainability Director at Heathrow, highlighted the importance of supporting the launch of ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon.’

Becky Coffin said,

Helping projects like this is exactly what our Giving Back Programme is all about, helping to make this area a great place to live and work

Richard Barnes, Head of Conservation at London Wildlife Trust, spoke about the significance of this new partnership:

This new partnership will enable us to build upon our 40-year investment in Hillingdon with a more ambitious programme of capital works, volunteering and engagement activities on five of our reserves and two of Hillingdon’s; delivering a step change in connecting communities with these sites.”

This partnership between British Airways, Heathrow, and London Wildlife Trust signifies a remarkable commitment to conservation, community engagement, and the preservation of natural heritage.

The ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon’ project promises to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the environment while providing opportunities for individuals to actively participate in safeguarding these invaluable spaces.

Dave

KLM takes business travel to new heights with cutting-edge World Business Class seats

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KLM has unveiled its latest innovation for business travellers: the all-new World Business Class seats.

These cutting-edge seats have been meticulously designed to provide unparalleled comfort and privacy, catering to the discerning needs of modern business travellers.

Sliding doors: with a simple slide, the seat can be closed off, creating a secluded space for working, relaxing, or enjoying uninterrupted sleep.

Through extensive customer research and collaboration with renowned seat manufacturer Jamco, KLM has introduced a range of remarkable features in its new World Business Class seats.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of a sliding door, which not only enhances privacy but also ensures a more serene and undisturbed environment for passengers.

With a simple slide, the seat can be closed off, creating a secluded space for working, relaxing, or enjoying uninterrupted sleep.

KLM’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the design of these new seats.

Leveraging various innovative techniques, the seats and their fittings are impressively 10-15% lighter than other business class seats in the market, aligning with KLM’s sustainability objectives. This lighter weight not only contributes to reducing the airline’s environmental footprint but also enhances fuel efficiency, offering a ‘greener’ travel experience.

In addition to the sliding door feature, the new World Business Class seats offer an array of personalisation options and user-friendly functionalities.

Fully adjustable: the seats come with an adjustable lower-back support for optimal comfort and even provide a relaxing setting with a subtle back-massage feature

Passengers can enjoy direct aisle access from every seat, ensuring seamless movement throughout the cabin.

The seats come with an adjustable lower-back support for optimal comfort and even provide a relaxing setting with a subtle back-massage feature.

For those seeking ultimate rest, the seat reclines fully flat, transforming into a luxurious 198cm-long bed.

Recognising the importance of staying connected during travel, KLM has integrated multiple accessible charging sockets into the seats, accompanied by a wireless charging option.

Furthermore, passengers can conveniently store their belongings in a lockable compartment, which includes a built-in mirror for added convenience.

The seats are also equipped with a recessed bottle holder, ensuring that passengers can securely place their water bottles on the tabletop even during turbulence.

The introduction of these exceptional World Business Class seats marks a significant milestone for KLM.

The airline’s Boeing 777-300 and 200 fleet will be gradually fitted with these innovative seats, providing an elevated travel experience to its business class passengers.

Boet Kreiken, EVP Customer Experience said,

Based on extensive customer and competitor research, we improved our World Business Class seats to ensure that customers have more privacy and comfort during their flight.

The new seats are better in terms of design, technology and sustainability features.

KLM meets a wide array of its passengers’ wishes with the new seats in World Business Class, Premium Comfort, Economy Comfort and Economy Class.

We are delighted to offer these new products and related services to our customers worldwide.

Simultaneously, KLM will introduce the latest Premium Comfort cabin, completing the full revamp within the coming year.

While KLM’s World Business Class undergoes a remarkable transformation, passengers can still enjoy the exceptional services that have made the airline renowned.

The renowned catering concept and SkyPriority services will remain unchanged, ensuring a seamless and luxurious journey for business travelers.

Business travellers can look forward to embarking on a new era of luxury and tranquility with the introduction of KLM’s impressive World Business Class seats.

Dave

Heathrow Airport announces new CEO

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Heathrow Airport’s Board has officially confirmed the appointment of Thomas Woldbye as the successor to John Holland-Kaye, who will step down later this year after nearly a decade at the helm.

Following an extensive recruitment process, Woldbye emerged as the outstanding candidate among a pool of exceptional contenders, both internally and from around the world.

Thomas Woldbye: takes over from John Holland-Kaye as CEO of Heathrow

Currently serving as the CEO of Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record in leading a major airport, championing passenger service, sustainability and growth.

His appointment comes at a crucial time as Heathrow recently underwent an £11 billion private investment program by its shareholders, transforming it into the modern, top-rated airport it is today.

During his tenure at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye prioritised customers and colleagues, leading to the airport’s transformation into a powerhouse transport hub of northern Europe, earning it accolades for its passenger service. His adeptness in navigating complex stakeholder relationships played a pivotal role in his success.

Woldbye forged strong links with the Danish Government, who are part owners of Copenhagen Airport, and fostered partnerships with airlines to drive investment and development, including significant expansions in terminal capacity.

Before his role at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye spent 27 years at Møller-Mærsk, where he led the global shipping and ferry divisions, gaining substantial success in diverse operating environments and honing expertise in process efficiency.

John Holland-Kaye, the current CEO of Heathrow, will remain in his position over the summer to ensure the airport continues to deliver excellent passenger service until Woldbye officially assumes the role later this year.

In response to the appointment, Lord Deighton, Chairman of Heathrow, expressed the Board’s delight in selecting Woldbye as the next CEO. Deighton emphasised that Woldbye’s accomplishments at Copenhagen Airport align closely with Heathrow’s long-term strategy, highlighting his ability to successfully run a major airport and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.

Acknowledging Holland-Kaye’s contribution, Deighton commended his unwavering dedication to colleagues and praised his transformative leadership that propelled Heathrow to become a premier global hub.

Holland-Kaye played a pivotal role in developing the expansion plan for Heathrow, securing overwhelming Parliamentary approval. He also adeptly navigated the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and led the industry towards a net-zero future.

Expressing his confidence in Woldbye’s appointment, Holland-Kaye stated that an airport is more than just infrastructure; it is the people who work tirelessly to deliver excellent service to passengers. Holland-Kaye praised Woldbye’s leadership on diversity, sustainability, and his commitment to meeting the needs of passengers, believing that the Heathrow team will be instrumental in Woldbye’s success in delivering the best airport service in the world.

Woldbye himself expressed excitement, pride, and humility upon being chosen to lead one of the world’s most renowned airports on its future journey. He acknowledged the remarkable improvements made by the excellent team at Heathrow in recent years, creating a strong platform for further success. As an important engine for the British economy and intrinsically linked to the success of London and the wider UK, Woldbye looks forward to charting the path for this iconic company. His ambition is to enhance the airport experience for passengers, airlines, the community, and all parts of the UK.

Heathrow Airport, the UK’s international gateway and Europe’s largest airport, welcomes over 200,000 passengers on approximately 1,300 flights daily, serving as Britain’s hub for trade, tourism and investment. With approximately 75,000 colleagues, including airport employees and partners, such as airlines, ground handlers and retailers, Heathrow plays a vital role in connecting the UK to the world.

About Thomas Woldbye

  • Thomas Woldbye assumed the role of CEO at Copenhagen Airport in May 2011. In this position, he is responsible for overseeing the airport’s operations, facilities, and various sectors, including retail, food and beverage, hotels, real estate development, parking, and logistics. Under Woldbye’s leadership, Copenhagen Airport consistently ranks as one of the world’s top airports in terms of customer and retail experiences, efficiency, and profitability. He has successfully collaborated with Danish unions and prioritized customers throughout the airport’s staff.
  • Prior to his role at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye served for 27 years at A.P. Møller-Mærsk, where he held various management positions across different countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and Denmark. During this time, he played a pivotal role in managing A.P. Møller-Mærsk’s global container business, Maersk Line.
  • In 2004, Woldbye assumed the role of Group CEO at Norfolkline Group, headquartered in The Hague.
  • Woldbye holds an HD in Financing from Copenhagen Business School and has acquired professional qualifications from the London Business School and the IMD in Switzerland.
Dave

Norwegian and Strawberry partner to enhance loyalty programmes

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Norwegian and Strawberry have recently announced a partnership, establishing a joint company aimed at enhancing the loyalty programmes available to their respective members.

This collaboration brings together the renowned airline, Norwegian, and Strawberry (formerly known as Nordic Choice Hotels), a hotel company with a legacy of challenging traditional market norms and delivering unique guest experiences.

Strawberry growing: Petter A. Stordalen purchased his first hotel 25 years ago. Now, guests are able to enjoy 226 hotels, 122 restaurants and 21 spas

The partnership aims to provide a wider range of services to loyalty programme members and introduces a common loyalty currency and a versatile platform that allows members to earn and redeem loyalty points across various programmes.

With equal ownership stakes held by Norwegian and Strawberry, this joint venture is set to reshape the loyalty landscape, particularly for UK-based business travellers seeking seamless corporate travel experiences.

By replacing the existing point systems used by various loyalty programmes, the partnership revolutionises the way members can utilise their loyalty points.

For instance, points earned through hotel stays can now be used to pay for airfares and vice versa, eliminating the boundaries between travel sectors.

Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the opportunity to expand the highly popular loyalty programme, Norwegian Reward, through innovative partnerships. He emphasised the importance of thinking beyond conventional approaches and teaming up with new partners like Strawberry to develop a platform that offers customers a broader selection of services.

A significant development accompanying this collaboration is the recent name change of Nordic Choice Hotels to Strawberry. For over 25 years, Nordic Choice Hotels has been a prominent player in the hotel industry, consistently challenging traditional market norms to provide unique guest experiences. The name change to Strawberry marks a significant shift for the company as it expands its offerings beyond hotels. With a portfolio that now includes 120 restaurants, 20 spas, gyms, meeting places, and arenas throughout the Nordic region, the new name reflects the company’s ambition to represent its diverse range of experiences and services.

Petter Stordalen, founder and owner of Strawberry, explains,

We are no longer just a hotel company. Today, we offer experiences throughout the Nordic region, and therefore, we want a brand and a name that represents the entire portfolio.

While the ambition to deliver exceptional hotel and guest experiences remains unchanged, the rebranding as Strawberry signifies a broader universe of offerings for guests and the 2.4 million members of the loyalty club. This shift aligns with Strawberry’s vision to be the best in terms of hotel and guest experiences while expanding their portfolio to provide a comprehensive range of services to their valued customers.

Initially, the collaboration between Norwegian and Strawberry will focus on their loyalty programmes, Norwegian Reward and Strawberry’s loyalty programme. However, the partnership’s goal is to extend its reach by including additional partners from the Nordics, thereby offering members even more opportunities to earn and redeem loyalty points.

With a combined membership of approximately 7.5 million, the partnership between Norwegian and Strawberry holds great promise for business travellers. As further details about the new company and the loyalty currency are revealed during the launch later this year, anticipation grows within the travel industry.

Business travellers can look forward to an enhanced loyalty experience that provides more frequent and flexible opportunities to earn and utilize loyalty points for their corporate travel requirements.

The partnership between Norwegian and Strawberry not only signifies a new era in loyalty programmes but also reflects the evolving needs of business travellers. By unifying airlines and hotel chains and introducing a common loyalty currency, this collaboration sets the stage for seamless and rewarding corporate travel experiences.

As Norwegian and Strawberry continue to innovate and extend invitations to new partners, their mission of revolutionising loyalty programmes across the region gains momentum.

Dave

Bridging Distances: Ferrovial and Milligan unveil ambitious plan for UK business travel

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In a significant move, the Airports division of infrastructure company Ferrovial has joined forces with London-based real estate developer Milligan to identify and develop sites for urban air mobility operations across the United Kingdom.

This collaboration marks a crucial step in Ferrovial’s plan to construct and operate vertiports, which will play a key role in the emerging field of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) operations.

The partnership brings together Ferrovial’s expertise in transportation infrastructure development and Milligan’s strategic approach to site selection and engagement with local communities.

AECOM and Lichfields, acting as planning advisors, will work alongside the partners to assess potential sites and determine their suitability for eVTOL operations.

The announcement of this partnership took place at a special event hosted by UKREiiF in Leeds in May. Brad Miller, Ferrovial Vertiports Managing Director for the UK and EMEA, and John Milligan, Executive Chairman of Milligan, introduced their joint vision for the future of air mobility, emphasizing the importance of engaging communities and core stakeholders.

By advancing connectivity, this collaboration aims to transform the way towns and cities across the UK are linked.

Brad Miller, Ferrovial Vertiports Managing Director for the UK and EMEA, stated,

Freedom of movement is critical to global economic and social advancement. With a 70-year history of developing transportation infrastructure that helps communities flourish and grow, Ferrovial is proud to play a leading role in transforming the future of urban air mobility

Recognising the critical role of vertiports in enabling Urban Air Mobility (UAM) operations, Miller highlighted their potential to provide sustainable and convenient air connections, revolutionizing travel within and between cities.

Stuart Harris, CEO of Milligan, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating,

UKREiiF has been the perfect opportunity to unveil the details of our partnership and plans going forward. With an audience of local authorities, central government, developers, and landowners, we are looking into the locations of the UK’s first Vertiports,

To ensure the success of the venture, certain imperatives guide the site selection process. Prospective locations must meet airspace requirements, offer a minimum area of 4,000m2 with access to utilities, and be free from residential or noise-sensitive areas. The sites can be situated on the ground or on existing structures such as rooftops or carparks, with design and fit-out costs covered by the partnership.

Milligan and Ferrovial are currently engaged in discussions with local authorities, landowners, and asset owners across strategically important locations in the UK, aligning with the demand model of Ferrovial Vertiports. This collaborative effort aims to establish the first Vertiports in the UK and set the stage for the future of urban air mobility.

The partnership between Ferrovial and Milligan, along with the involvement of Vertical Aerospace, a key partner of Ferrovial Vertiport and a leading manufacturer of eVTOLs, marks a significant milestone in advancing the accessibility and sustainability of transportation systems in the UK.

As the realm of urban air mobility unfolds, the collaborative efforts of industry leaders and stakeholders will shape the way we travel, opening up new possibilities for businesses and enhancing the overall travel experience for UK-based business travellers.

Dave

Gatwick unveils £10 million transformation of North Terminal for enhanced passenger experience

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London Gatwick Airport, the capital’s second major international hub, is gearing up for an exciting period of transformation that promises to enhance the experience of business travellers.

The airport has unveiled its plans for the relaunch and redesign of the North Terminal, alongside a proposal to bring the Northern Runway into routine use.

These initiatives, backed by substantial investments, aim to create a more appealing and efficient space for passengers while generating significant employment opportunities for local construction workers.

North Terminal: more than £10 million to be invested to create a more appealing space for passengers to relax, shop and eat

The North Terminal, scheduled for completion in early 2024, will undergo its most significant overhaul since its opening in 1988.

With over £10 million dedicated to improvements, Gatwick is committed to providing a personalised and relaxing environment that aligns with its refreshed branding and vision.

Passengers can look forward to a departure lounge featuring new flooring, contemporary seating and differentiated ‘mood zones’ equipped with accessible power points. The addition of local artwork and a sustainable planting scheme will showcase the airport’s connection to the beautiful West Sussex countryside.

Furthermore, improved sightlines, wayfinding systems, and a unique digital artwork zone will ensure an effortless exploration of the terminal’s offerings.

Simultaneously, Gatwick’s Northern Runway expansion project presents a remarkable opportunity for local construction workers.

If approved, approximately 630 new jobs will be created across areas including West Sussex, East Sussex, Surrey, Kent, Brighton and Hove, and the London Borough of Croydon. The airport plans to source the majority of the workforce from neighboring local authority areas such as Reigate and Banstead, Crawley and Mid Sussex.

This job creation initiative will invigorate the regional economy and provide employment opportunities for professionals, engineers, operators, ground workers, and specialists in various fields. From taxiway alterations to terminal building work, car parks and highway projects, the project will offer diverse roles that contribute to the airport’s long-term vision.

Cedric Laurier, Chief Technical Officer of London Gatwick, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunities the Northern Runway project presents, highlighting the excitement it brings to the region. He said,

The opportunities presented for local employment through Gatwick’s Northern Runway project are incredibly exciting for the region. 

To offer up to 1400 new jobs in construction alone – with a significant proportion of these estimated to be using the local workforce – is great news. These new jobs will not only benefit workers now, but also our future workforce who are still in school or college.”

Gatwick’s comprehensive vision encompasses both the enhancement of passenger experience through the North Terminal redesign and the positive economic impact resulting from the Northern Runway expansion.

By improving resilience, reducing delays, and supporting trade, tourism and job creation, the airport aims to solidify its position as a leading international hub, serving the needs of UK-based business travellers and beyond.

With exciting additions like new retailers and restaurants, including The Breakfast Club, BrewDog, and curi.o.city, London Gatwick is set to offer a vibrant and dynamic travel experience.

As the ambitious projects take shape, Gatwick invites business travellers to look forward to a future where the airport serves as a gateway to exceptional travel experiences, reflecting the airport’s commitment to providing a unique sense of place while celebrating the region’s rich offerings.

Dave

Austrian Airlines introduces ‘Tastefully Austrian’: a new culinary concept

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Austrian Airlines is set to revolutionise the inflight dining experience with its new long-haul catering concept, “Tastefully Austrian.”

Commencing in mid-June, passengers can expect an expanded culinary offering, allowing them to customise their meals according to their preferences.

This innovative approach aims to highlight Austrian hospitality and cuisine, providing UK-based business travellers with an exceptional individual experience.

Michael Trestl, Chief Commercial Officer of Austrian Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm, stating,

We aim to provide our guests with a flying piece of Austria – a culinary experience the Austrian way. Our goal is to highlight Austrian hospitality and cuisine and to offer our guests an individual experience.

We take great pride in our return to form with the new long-haul concept and in bringing Austrian culinary delights to our esteemed passengers.

Passengers will now have more flexibility in customising their onboard meals, ensuring an enjoyable and personalised dining experience.

Additionally, the reintroduction of the Flying Chef in April further enhances the inflight service.

Business Class passengers can anticipate a range of exciting new additions. The welcome drink will be accompanied by a delectable bar snack, and due to its popularity, an expanded selection featuring a soup will be available.

Guests will have the choice of two international main courses, complemented by an authentic Austrian signature dish.

A highlight of the new concept is the introduction of the Viennese coffee house service onboard, where passengers can indulge in a variety of freshly-brewed coffees, paired with a delightful dessert. And a separate cheese trolley, offering a selection of digestives, will be presented in the cabin.

Not only will Business Class be enhanced, but also Premium Economy and Economy Class will see culinary innovations on long-haul flights.

Passengers in these classes can expect new recipes and creations presented in three- or four-course menus, featuring two main course options. Additionally, a light dish or small breakfast will be served on all long-haul flights, ensuring a satisfying inflight experience for all travellers.

The menu concept aligns with Austrian Airlines’ corporate values, reflecting their new brand orientation launched in April 2023: “Austria’s flair in the air.” The airline says this motto embodies the essence of Austrian hospitality and creates a sense of home for passengers.

UK-based business travellers can now look forward to an extraordinary culinary journey above the clouds, experiencing the warm embrace of Austrian hospitality and indulging in the rich flavours of Austria, all while reaching their destinations in comfort and style with Austrian Airlines.

Dave

British Airways makes Cincinnati the airline’s 27th US destination

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British Airways has made its highly-anticipated debut at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG).

This marks the airline’s 27th American destination and further solidifies British Airways’ position as the largest overseas carrier in the United States.

Passengers departing on the inaugural flight from Cincinnati were treated to British-themed refreshments at the departure gate and entertained by musicians and performers, creating an exciting atmosphere for the start of their journey.

Situated along the picturesque Ohio River, the central Cincinnati metropolitan area spans across southwestern Ohio, northern Kentucky, and extends into parts of southeastern Indiana. By establishing this new route, British Airways introduces its renowned service to a previously untapped region of the United States, catering to the needs of over 11 million people within a 120-mile radius of Cincinnati’s airport.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways Director of Networks and Alliances, expressed confidence in the new route, stating,

When we look at the Cincinnati region we see a vibrant part of the U.S. with a great mix of business and leisure travellers who have long asked for more international service and global connectivity, which is what made it so attractive to us and why we’re confident this new route will be a success.

Our incredibly positive and welcoming conversations with the airport team, the business development community and tourism partners – combined with all the region has to offer visitors from outside the U.S. – were a clear sign that Cincinnati was the right place to expand our flying in America.

With the addition of this route, customers based in Cincinnati now have convenient non-stop access to the capital city of the United Kingdom and its iconic landmarks and attractions.

Cincinnati’s corporate community stands to benefit from the increased connectivity to one of the world’s leading business centers.

Furthermore, British Airways offers seamless connections from its hub at London Heathrow’s Terminal 5 to nearly 200 destinations in 65 countries worldwide, including routes with partner airlines. The arrival of British Airways establishes Cincinnati as a gateway to the globe, unparalleled by any other airline in the region.

Candace McGraw, Chief Executive Officer of CVG Airport, expressed her excitement, saying,

We are thrilled this day has come when CVG has non-stop service to and from London Heathrow.

This flight offers tremendous growth opportunities for business travel, economic development, and tourism between the UK and our region.

We are grateful to our partners in Ohio and Kentucky who have supported this flight that will benefit travellers for years to come.

I offer a personal thanks to our new friends at British Airways for this opportunity.

Travelers arriving in Cincinnati, a city that welcomed over six million visitors in 2021, will find a wealth of activities to enjoy. The city boasts various sports teams, performing arts venues, museums, and parks. Unique neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine and Covington offer an eclectic mix of restaurants, breweries, cocktail bars, and art galleries.

Additionally, a trip along Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, stretching south into the central region of the state, provides visitors with a uniquely American experience steeped in history and fine spirits.

The service between Cincinnati and London operates five times a week during the current summer flying season and four times a week during the winter flying season. British Airways will deploy a range of aircraft from its fleet, including the Boeing 777 and Boeing 787, to operate these new non-stop flights.

Passengers traveling on British Airways to and from Cincinnati can look forward to quintessentially British onboard experiences, with three distinct cabin classes available: Club World (business), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and World Traveller (economy).

Dave

British Airways Introduces Exclusive Whispering Angel Rosé Bar for Ultimate In-flight Indulgence

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British Airways is raising the bar for its customers with the introduction of an exclusive Whispering Angel rosé bar.

This innovative concept will make British Airways the first airline to boast a bespoke bar dedicated solely to the world-famous rosé wine.

Positioned within the British Airways lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5B, the bar aims to provide a refreshing and luxurious experience for passengers before their flights.

Scheduled to open its doors this summer, the Whispering Angel lounge bar will offer Caves d’Esclans’ exquisite Whispering Angel rosé, known for its Provençal pink hue and delightful blend of sun-kissed peach, raspberry, and citrus undertones. Embracing the rosé’s delicate aesthetics, the bar will be adorned in a pale pink color scheme, perfectly reflecting the light tones of the wine served.

In addition to this exciting addition, British Airways will be revitalizing the B gates lounge at Terminal 5.

Passengers can look forward to new and reupholstered furniture, as well as a refreshed layout, creating an even more inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

The Whispering Angel bar will be a haven for British Airways’ customers, offering them an exclusive experience with a wine that has already been well-received in the airline’s First and Club lounges.

The airline aims to enhance its drink offerings further, recently appointing a full-time Master of Wine – the only one known to be appointed by an airline worldwide.

This commitment to excellence is evidenced by the introduction of four new English sparkling wines on board starting from March 2023.

Passengers flying in Club World can now savor the choice of two sparkling options, including the current resident, Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Silver Top Non-Vintage Champagne, as well as an exclusive English sparkling wine.

The latter, offered on a quarterly rotation, provides a rich variety of options.

Currently, customers can indulge in the Digby Fine English Brut NV, with the Balfour Rosé de Noirs from the Balfour Hush Heath Estate in Kent set to join the lineup from July. This delightful lighter rosé sparkling wine, crafted exclusively for British Airways, will be available solely in the airline’s Club World cabin, offering a truly unique and elevated experience at 35,000 feet.

Looking ahead, Simpsons Chalklands Cuvee Brut NV from Kent will grace the selection from October, providing passengers with a perfect choice to round off the year. And starting from January 2024, the refreshing Wiston Estate Brut NV from the South Downs will be introduced, featuring enticing citrus and toasty notes, a delightful way to ring in the new year.

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Whispering Angel bar, highlighting the positive feedback received from customers regarding the rosé already served in the lounges.

He said,

Our customers are already telling us how much they enjoy the Whispering Angel rosé we are serving in our lounges, so we are thrilled to be opening an exclusive Whispering Angel bar.

We truly believe this will be a massive hit with customers and we are excited that its introduction will coincide with a newly refurbished lounge in the satellite at London Heathrow Terminal 5 B gates.

Château d’Esclans, the producer of Whispering Angel, shared the excitement of the partnership with British Airways, expressing pride in collaborating to launch this stunning bar. They eagerly anticipate the opportunity to provide British Airways’ customers with a delightful glass of rosé before they take flight.

British Airways continues to redefine the inflight experience, focusing on enhancing its drinks offerings and setting new standards of luxury.

With the introduction of the Whispering Angel bar and an expanded selection of English sparkling wines, British Airways sets a new standard of luxury and ensures an extraordinary journey for its esteemed passengers from takeoff to touchdown.