AirAsia X launches flights to Osaka

AirAsia X has launched flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan.

The Kuala Lumpur – Osaka route is AirAsia X’s sixteenth destination to date, and its second destination in Japan after Tokyo. The airline will fly 4 times per week flights on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

“Brand affinity for the AirAsia X brand remains at an all time high, with demand also returning to pre-tsunami levels. We are grateful for the enthusiastic response we are receiving from the people of Osaka and will continue to be here for a long time to come,” said Azran Osman-Rani, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia X. “The route would be a strong feeder for our guests intending to connect onwards either domestically or internationally from Osaka. Similarly, guests from Japan and surrounding regions would be able to fly into Kuala Lumpur hub and connect onwards to AirAsia’s extensive network of over 165 routes in South East Asia and beyond.”

To coincide with the opening of Osaka, AirAsia X is offering special introductory all-in fares from as low as RM199 for one way economy and an all in one way fare from as low as RM599 on its Premium fly flat beds from Kuala Lumpur to Osaka for online bookings from 1 to 11 December, 2011 for immediate travel from 1 December 2011 to 31 March, 2012. Also available are promotional Fly-Thru fares from Osaka to Australia, France, and New Zealand. Term and conditions apply.

Garuda plans inflight Wi-Fi

INDONESIA-As part of the carrier’s plan to increase its corporate appeal, Garuda Indonesia has released plans to install Wi-Fi on new aircraft expected to arrive next year.

Releasing plans earlier this month, the airline said the roaming internet technology would be available on eight planes including the Airbus 330-200 and Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, Flight Centric reported.

According to the airline’s president Emirsyah Satar said it would cost the carrier up to US$100,000 for each aircraft to be equipped with Wi-Fi but will allow passengers to send SMS and emails inflight.

The Indonesia-based carrier also unveiled last month exclusive privileges and discounted rates for its business travellers flying between Hong Kong and Indonesia.

Air China to launch Beijing-London Gatwick flights

CHINA-Air China, a Star Alliance member, is to start offering direct rotations between Beijing and London Gatwick from 2 May 2012.

The flights, CA851/2, will be operated on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday with A330-200 aircraft.

The flights will depart from Beijing at 01:35 and from London Gatwick at 13:15.

The new services mean that Air China will operate to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Air China has a fleet of 290 Airbus and Boeing aircraft, and operates 289 routes - 73 international, 14 regional, and 202 domestic - serving a total of 142 cities, including 43 international, 4 regional and 95 domestic, in 30 countries and regions.

TransAsia Airways gears up for expansion

TAIWAN-Taiwan’s third-largest airline, TransAsia Airways, has ordered its first wide-body aircraft and is planning to boost connectivity across the Southeast Asian region.

The airline’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, Andrew Stephen, said that TransAsia’s long-term goal was to connect to every capital city in Southeast Asia. While he admitted that these plans were “an aspiration, rather than a specific business plan”, the fact that TransAsia is planning to add a further 20 aircraft to its fleet in the coming years, including two Airbus A330s, says something of the carrier’s ambition.

At present, TransAsia offers flights to Singapore (from Taipei) and Hanoi (from Kaohsiung), but Stephen noted that while route development was currently restricted by air service agreements between Southeast Asian nations and Taiwan, bilateral discussions were ongoing to boost connectivity. Bangkok, Jakarta and Manila were all cited as key markets for expansion.

To facilitate the expected growth of its route network, TransAsia’s first two Airbus A330s are arriving in November 2012. Stephen revealed that the new twin-aisle aircraft would be configured with two cabins, including its new, yet-to-be-announced business class offering, which will include flatbed seats.

“One of the possible destinations [for the A330s] would be Singapore,” Stephen said, “but it’s a year away so we’ll have to wait and see. Our current Singapore-Taipei services are catered more towards the Singaporean market, with flight times enabling Singaporeans to do a day’s business or shopping in Taipei before flying back in the evening. But it’s possible that we could add a second daily service more to suit the Taiwanese market,” he added.

Stephen also revealed that the new A330 could connect to Japan, following the recent completion of an open skies pact between the country and Taiwan. In April 2012, TransAsia will launch scheduled services to five new Japanese hubs: Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Sapporo and Ryukyu.

“There’s also the possibility that we could offer a connecting A330 services between Singapore, Taiwan and Japan,” Stephen revealed.

Today, TransAsia operates a fleet of 18 narrow-body aircraft, but with a further 20 on order, including the two A330s, the airline has significant potential to expand. As Taiwan pens more air service agreements with Southeast Asian nations, as it recently did in Japan, TransAsia may just achieve its aspiration of flying to every capital in the region.

China Southern set to launch Heathrow-Guangzhou route

CHINA-China Southern Airlines looks set to launch flights between London Heathrow and Guangzhou next summer.

China Southern’s president Tan Wan Geng as saying that the carrier plans to launch flights between its Guangzhou hub and London from June 2012.

China Southern plans to “begin operating four Airbus A380s on routes between its Guangzhou hub and major cities in Europe and the US”, although the potential London route would most likely be operated with a smaller aircraft, at least initially.

There are currently no non-stop flights between the UK and Guangzhou – China Southern operates flights to Amsterdam and Paris, codesharing with fellow Skyteam members KLM and Air France.

Lufthansa currently offers flights from Frankfurt, but the carrier is set to drop these from next March.

The news shows the potential for Chinese carriers to become influential players on the important kangaroo route between Europe and Australia. China Southern already operates into five Australian cities from Guangzhou, so a new route to London would tap into connection possibilities in and out of the Chinese city.

For a look at the Europe-Australia route, and the threat to BA and Qantas's market share from Middle East and Asian carriers.

Guangzhou is located in southern China, around 120km northwest of Hong Kong, and is the capital of the Guangdong province.

Lufthansa to fly A380 to Houston

GERMANY-Lufthansa will launch Airbus A380 services to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport next year. The German carrier will upgrade its Frankfurt-Houston route from a Boeing 747-400 to the 526-seat A380 from 1 August 2012.

“As the gateway to Texas’ energy capital, Bush Intercontinental welcomes the A380 as a symbol of Houston's significant role as an international hub,” said Mario Diaz, Director of the Houston Airport System. “I believe the new aircraft is a game changer and is an excellent fit for transatlantic flights between Houston and Germany as Lufthansa expands its service.”

Houston will become the fourth US market served by Lufthansa’s A380.

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Hainan, American Airlines to codeshare

Hainan Airlines and American Airlines have signed an agreement to codeshare on each other’s flights, and offer reciprocal frequent flyer benefits.

American will now place its AA code on several of Hainan Airlines’ domestic Chinese flights connecting to American’s direct Chicago-Beijing flights. American will also codeshare on Hainan-operated flights between Beijing and Seattle.

Hainan Airlines meanwhile, will place its HU code on several American services from Seattle, as well as on American’s services between Shanghai and Chicago/Los Angeles and between Beijing and Chicago.

“By strengthening and broadening our presence in China through our relationship with Hainan Airlines, American will be better positioned to deliver enhanced benefits to our joint customers,” said Virasb Vahidi, American’s Chief Commercial Officer.

“This agreement has the potential to make traveling between China and the United States – and beyond – considerably more attractive for our customers with improved connections and increased frequent flyer benefits,” said Hou Wei, Hainan Airlines' Chief Marketing Officer.

Bangkok Airways receives new Airbus A319

THAILAND-Bangkok Airways has taken delivery of a new Airbus A319 aircraft.
The new single-aisle jet, named ‘Bangkok’, is configured with 138 economy class seats.

Based at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport, the aircraft will be deployed both domestic and international routes, including Koh Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bengarulu, and Dhaka.

The new A319 becomes the 18th aircraft in Bangkok Airways’ fleet, which also features eight ATR72s, three A320s and seven A319s.

CZ plans greater efforts in Aus

CHINA-China Southern Airlines will make ”greater efforts on its kangaroo routes”, according to the carrier’s chief operating officer Tan Wan’geng, seeing the region as key to its network expansion plans.

Speaking at the company’s annual corporate conference held in the Gold Coast yesterday, Mr Tan explained the airline has developed plans to become a “truly network-oriented airline” and said flights to Australia would make the “Guangzhou hub an important gateway hub into China and even into the Asia-Pacific region as well as an ideal transfer centre between Australia and Europe”.

Experiencing a 114.1 percent increase in passenger between mainland China to Australia and New Zealand during January and November 2011 compared to the same period last year, Mr explained the carrier had become the largest airline between the region and China.

He said as a result of that growth the carrier’s Australia Strategy was even more important for its “integration into the international marketplace” which will see the carrier commence flights into Heathrow, London next June as well as increase capacity to Paris, Amsterdam and Vancouver.

“China Southern Airlines has received generous coordination and support from the Australian government, tourism bureau, airports and all sectors of the society as we further introduce ourselves to the Australian business and leisure communities,” he said.

“China Southern’s commitment to Australia remains very strong, as demonstrated by the fact that we are the airline sponsor for next month’s Sydney Festival.”

In total, the carrier’s head operating officer said the airline has forecasted a passenger count of up to 80 million travellers for this year, with the majority flying on its domestic routes.

For the first time in the company’s history, China Southern held its annual conference outside of China, selecting the Gold Coast as the meeting’s destination.

Made possible through the work of Gold Coast Tourism, Gold Coast Airport and Tourism Queensland, the Group will also get the opportunity to experience some of the region’s key attractions including famous beaches, hinterland, resorts, theme parks and golf courses.

Gold Coast Tourism chief executive Martin Winter said hosting the delegation was step towards the sustainability of the region’s $4.5 billion tourism industry.

“It is a demonstration of the strong relations between the Gold Coast and China Southern Airlines, and an indication of the considerable reputation the destination has within the China market,” Mr Winter said.

“The delegation of airline executives, corporate heavyweights, and industry influencers will not only experience our world-class destination first hand, they will meet the operators and stakeholders who make it Australia’s most successful tourism industry.

“Valuable commercial partnerships and influential personal relationships will be formed.”

Air NZ relaunches Japan charter programme

NEW ZEALAND-Air New Zealand will operate seven charter flights to Japan this summer. Between 25 January and 14 March 2012 the airline will operate a weekly charter service into Auckland from Nagoya, Fukuoka or Kagoshima, using a 230-seat Boeing 767-300 aircraft.

Air New Zealand General Manager Japan Ed Overy said the seven charters are already selling well.

“For obvious reasons the Japanese market has been in decline since March this year. Together with Tourism New Zealand, we have been working hard to return the market to growth,” said Overy.

“This summer’s charter flights are less than the dozen we ran last summer but more than we had the year before that, and reflect the renewed optimism we are seeing in the outbound market from Japan following the recent reintroduction of direct services into Christchurch last month and also the resumption of regular Boeing 777-200 services,” he added.

Japan is New Zealand’s fifth-largest tourist market, contributing 74,400 international arrivals for the year ending October 2011.

Overy added that Air New Zealand has been focusing on generating demand from new tourists in key regions across Japan, with four charter flights to operate from Nagoya, two from Fukuoka and one from Kagoshima.

“Part of our market strategy has been to broaden our reach by offering direct air connections to New Zealand from regional airports within Japan, where we are observing some good demand,” he said.

Nine Japanese travel companies are involved in selling the charter services - JTB, Club Tourism, Meitetsu World Travel, Nokyo Tourist Corp, Kinki Nippon Tourist, Hankyu Express, Nishitesu Travel, Nangoku Kotsu and Miyuazaki Kotsu.

Air New Zealand’s regular Japan schedule includes three direct weekly flights from Tokyo to Christchurch and then on to Auckland, along with three weekly flights between Tokyo and Auckland, and four between Osaka and Auckland.

Qantas launches faster, smarter check-in

AUSTRALIA-Qantas has launched the first stage of its international Faster, Smarter Check-In with new Q Card Readers now operational at key trans-Tasman ports.

“Faster, Smarter Check-in has proved so popular with our frequent flyers for their domestic travel, we are now implementing stage one of our international roll out with Sydney, Auckland and Wellington,” said Qantas CEO, Alan Joyce. “Our trans-Tasman frequent flyers can now scan their frequent flyer card and passport and retrieve their boarding pass within seconds of arriving at the airport. It’s all about cutting down the journey time for our customers.”

The new trans-Tasman Q Card Reader Check-In means Platinum, Gold and Silver Frequent Flyers and Qantas Club members travelling across the Tasman will be able to use their Qantas card to check-in at an internationally configured Q Card Reader, streamlining their international experience.

Customers travelling between Australia and New Zealand, who hold an Australian or New Zealand passport, will be able to scan their Qantas card at the Q icon as per the process for the domestic Q Card Reader. They then scan their passport at the reader located below the Q icon, completing their check-in.

The introduction of the Q Card Readers forms the first phase of Qantas’ plans to broaden the use of the technology to streamline the international check-in experience.

Trans-Tasman Q Card Readers will be progressively introduced to Melbourne, Brisbane and Queenstown throughout 2011, with plans to rollout the technology in Christchurch next year.

High hopes for Jetstar Japan

JAPAN-Despite natural disasters affecting travel into Japan earlier this year, Qantas’ head Alan Joyce has reaffirmed the carrier’s commitment to launch Jetstar Japan in the coming year, with expectations it may out-perform Jetstar Australia.

Speaking at the ATEC’s 2011 Meeting Plan Conference in Sydney earlier this week, Mr Joyce explained that the low-cost brand has been a “great achievement for an Aussie airline” and expects the cheaper model to perform well in the Asian country.

Having already been named one of the top brands in Japan last year, the airline’s head said proved “this [Jetstar] has the potential to be bigger than Jetstar in Australia”.

“We’re in a position for an Australian airline to already be recognised as one of the top brands in such an important market,” he told attendees.

Working with Japan Airlines to launch the brand next year, Mr Joyce said the low-cost carrier would commence with 24 aircraft and explained international services would commence within the first and will include key destinations including China and Southeast Asia.

Mr Joyce stressed that while the “Qantas Group will always call Australia home” the carrier will continue to look for opportunities outside of the country to “attain new customers”.

He noted that with 16 percent of the world’s middle class expected to be in Asia within the next 20 years, the region was vital to the carrier’s growth.

“Whatever happens in the financial markets over the coming weeks and months we know that Asia will continue to play a large part in global economy and a bigger role in the world,” the Australian flag carrier’s head said.

“It is already the world’s largest, fastest growing and most profitable aviation market.

“We have a historic opportunity to position Australia’s two great airline brands Qantas and Jetstar in Asia and create a funnel to bring more visitors into Australia and we are increasingly getting invitations from potential Asian partners to bring in our Asian aviation experience into this exciting market place.”

Other advancements into the region include the addition of a premium carrier in either Singapore or Malaysia.

Mr Joyce said offering both the low-cost and business model in the region would help create “tremendous potential” to attract “premium, business and leisure visitors to our shores”.

Korean Air wins Best Asian Airline and Best Airline Advertising Campaign

KOREA-For the fifth consecutive year, Korean Air has been rated as the best airline in Asia by readers of Business Traveler magazine.

The magazine's readers also ranked Korean Air’s advertising campaign the best in the business for the fourth year in a row.

"We are honored to be named best airline in Asia for the fifth consecutive year,” said John Jackson, Korean Air’s VP of Marketing for the Americas.  "Korean Air is committed to providing travelers the most comfortable environment and attentive service. We’re happy that Business Traveler readers around the world are acknowledging that.”

Korean Air recently introduced A380 flights to Asia from JFK and LAX, and is America’s largest Asian airline, flying from more cities in the Americas to more destinations in Asia than any other carrier.

As for the global advertising, “The campaign is connecting to travelers,” says Connie Park, director of the Korean Air team at HSAd. “It’s sensual, chic, and stylish and has a bit of spice that’s creating attention to the brand.”

Jackson said Korean Air's ad campaign "reflects the stellar and progressive nature of our services. We offer unparalleled service into Asia from the Americas and our advertising reflects this unique aspect.”

Korean Air's service has been recognized worldwide repeatedly.  This year, Korean Air was been awarded Best Airline in Northern Asia and Best Airport Staff/Gate Agent by Global Traveler magazine in its annual GT Tested Awards.  Other publications like Conde Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure also have praised Korean Air’s service.

AirAsia expands travel shop network

AirAsia has expanded its range of travel shops. The AirAsia Travel and Service Centres (ATSC), which offer services such as flight and hotel bookings and tour arrangements, have now expanded to 35 outlets across Malaysia. There are also nine international ATSCs in four countries - Iran, Vietnam, China and Cambodia - which are operated by licensed third-party agents on behalf of AirAsia.

“ATSCs are designed to cater to the needs of offline customers - those without access to our website and unable to do their own bookings at home. We realise that there are great demand from this market, hence the setting up of ATSCs all over the country to ensure that they are not left out from our great offerings.  The opening of this new ATSC will also support our goal in continuously nurturing our growth in the country and boost the economy,” said AirAsia’s Group CEO, Dr Tony Fernandes.

ATSCs offer flight and hotel bookings and tour arrangements, as well as products and services from AirAsia Insure, AirAsiaGo, AirAsia RedTix and Red Megastore.

Qatar Airways expands in China

CHINA-Qatar Airways has expanded in China with the launch of new flights to Chongqing and additional frequencies to both Beijing and Hong Kong.

The Middle Eastern carried has launched thrice-weekly services to Chongqing – the carrier’s fifth Chinese gateway – together with three new flights to Beijing and four extra frequencies to Hong Kong. The capacity hike, which has been introduced over a two-week period, takes the airline’s overall frequency across China from 25 to 35 flights each week.

Qatar Airways launched non-stop scheduled services to Chongqing in southwest China on 28 November, days after increasing frequency on the Doha–Beijing route to daily. Then on 2 December the airline boosted its daily Doha-Hong Kong services to 11 flights each week.
Qatar Airways also operates daily flights to both Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Speaking at a press conference in Chongqing, Qatar Airways’ Chief Executive Officer, Akbar Al Baker, said; “We have been closely looking at the opportunities that exist in this vast market to provide greater passenger choice and to give both business and leisure travellers more travel options to and from China, where many cities are largely underserved by international airlines.

“Chongqing is a prime example of a city, with its large industrial base and population of almost 30 million people, not having sufficient international air access that it so well deserves. By entering this market, we have become the only international airline flying westwards from Chongqing, giving easy one-stop access via our Doha hub to destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, North America and South America.

“With Chongqing’s strategic location on the important shipping waterway of the Yangtze River and being a production hub for motor cars, motorcycles, iron, steel, textiles, machinery and electronics, the city has huge market potential for new flights,” added Al Baker during the media gathering at the Sheraton Chongqing.

Speaking of the extra Beijing and Hong Kong services, Al Baker said; “We now have five cities on our route map across China, increasing the number of passenger flights from 25 to 35 each week, a significant operational increase in the space of just two weeks marking the end of yet another highly successful year in which we launched 15 new routes.

“It gives me great pleasure to be celebrating our expansion here in Chongqing, home to the iconic, magnificent Three Gorges. We look forward to developing our network further in China, which we believe has plenty more opportunities, particularly inland Chinese cities where demand for air travel is just as high as the traditional coastal gateways,” he added.

The new Doha-Chongqing services will depart Doha every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 0115, arriving in Chongqing at 1305. The return flights leave China at 0100 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving back in Qatar at 0500. The flights will be operated using an Airbus A330 featuring up to 36 seats in Business Class and up to 248 seats in Economy.

Nok Air to serve Nakhon Phanom route from Suvarnabhumi Airport

THAILAND-Nok Air is to serve its passengers to Nakhon Phanom operating out of Suvarnabhumi Airport during the period that Don Mueang Airport is closed due to the flood crisis.

Nok Air will operate a daily flight between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Nakhon Phanom from 9 December 2011, using an ATR-72 aircraft with a capacity of 66 seats. Reservations for flights to and from Nakhon Phanom can be made now via all Nok Air channels.

Qantas looks forward to International profitability, Asian airline on table

AUSTRALIA-Qantas CEO Alan Joyce announced today where the airline wanted to be in five years time, how they will get there and how they will measure the success along the way, in a 2011 Strategic plan focusing on improving return to shareholders.

While facing challenges from increasing Chinese carriers in the international market and competition from the Middle East, Mr Joyce recognised a weakness in Qantas International with the short term objective for the airline to return Qantas International to profitability.

To do this, Qantas is working with alliance partners to open a broader range of destinations, connections and frequencies through gateway ports such as Dallas Fort Worth and Santiago.

Plans to invest in a premium airline based in Asia are also on the table, positioning the airline within the South East Asian marketplace and capturing premium customers who have been frustrated with the lack of frequencies and flight time options throughout the region.

In a bid to drive down operating costs, Qantas will in the next five years take major steps towards a simplified and highly flexible fleet of next generation aircraft.   Already operating the A380, Qantas will be one of the first to operate the game-changing Boeing 787.

Mr Joyce recognised that even with a strong Australian resource-based economy, the airline would not be immune from challenges with the gloomy economic prognosis.

“As a business we are highly adaptive, scalable and capable of moving quickly to respond to challenging circumstances.  Our fleet strategy is a clear example of this,” Mr Joyce said.

The airline plans to continue its focus on lowering cost and improving productivity by capturing targeted growth opportunities.

Mr Joyce closed by saying although it has been a challenging period for the business and shareholders, with unprecedented level of operational and external issues, the business has prevailed because of focused strategy to drive long-term shareholder value.
“We have the right team, the right business model and the right approach to capital management to succeed and generate sustainable returns.” Mr Joyce said.

Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia open up the top end

Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia announced today the new international and domestic routes between Singapore and Darwin along with the launch of the merged frequent flyer program amidst their recently approved alliance.

Singapore Airlines’ regional full service airline, Silk Air, will begin a service between Singapore and Darwin four times weekly beginning 26 March 2012 with Virgin Australia complementing these services with daily flights between Darwin and Sydney beginning 2 April 2012.

The two airlines will merge their frequent flyer program, enabling KrisFlyer members to earn and redeem frequent flyer points on Virgin Australia’s entire network and vice versa with Velocity members.  For eligible customers, reciprocal lounge access is also available.

 Singapore Airlines Executive Vice President Commercial and SilkAir Chairman, Mr Mak Swee Wah expressed his delight at the addition of Darwin to the network, which provides more travel options for customers as a result of the Virgin Australia alliance.

 “Our partnership enables us to better service this important market, particularly with the introduction of a strong business class product and extensive international connections,” Mr Mak Swee Wah said.

Both airlines spoke of the benefits of the reciprocal frequent flyer program, delivering tangible benefits to customers, with more choice for domestic and international travel combined with seamless service.

“From next week, Virgin Australia customers will be able to enjoy the first benefits of the alliance, with the ability to earn and burn frequent flyer points and status credits on Singapore Airlines’ network of destinations and access 14 lounges around the world. We look forward to bringing our customers further exciting benefits as the alliance develops,” Virgin Australia Group Executive of Alliances, Network & Yield Management Ms McArthur said.

“Darwin is the gateway to the Northern Territory’s popular tourist destinations and is an increasingly important commercial hub. Together with Singapore Airlines we will be able to offer visitors from Singapore, Asia and Europe the opportunity to visit the Northern Territory and then travel on to Sydney and the East Coast of Australia. Our services will also be attractive to business travellers who now have the option of a quality business class service from Sydney to Darwin and on to Singapore and beyond,” Ms McAurthur said.

To accommodate eligible Virgin Australia guests and those of its alliance partners, Virgin Australia also announced that it would open a lounge at Darwin Airport.
Both airlines are expecting to commence codeshare arrangements on each other’s services from early 2012.

Etihad becomes world’s largest 787-9 Dreamliner customer

UAE-Etihad Airways, voted “World’s Leading Airline” by World Travel Awards, has become the world’s largest customer of Boeing’s 787-9 Dreamliner by placing an order for a further 10 of the revolutionary aircraft.

Following the $2.8 billion order, the UAE flag carrier now has a total of 41 Dreamliner’s on order.

James Hogan, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways said: “Our decision to expand our Dreamliner fleet is testimony to Etihad’s commitment to operating one of the youngest and most fuel efficient fleets in the skies.

He added “It also reflects our confidence in the 787’s ability to have a significant impact on our operating efficiencies and the passenger experience we can offer onboard this revolutionary aircraft. Both the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the 777 Freighter offer highly attractive operating economics and will facilitate our global expansion plans by allowing us to transport passengers and cargo into new global markets from our hub in Abu Dhabi.”

Founded in 2003, Etihad Airways is one of the fastest growing airlines in the world and currently operates scheduled flights to 84 passenger and cargo destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and North America.

“In less than 10 years Etihad Airways has established an enviable track record and has earned global recognition for its focus on providing its customers with a quality product,” said Jim Albaugh, ceo, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

“We are extremely proud of our partnership with Etihad Airways and are confident the 787 Dreamliner and the 777 Freighter will make valuable contributions to Etihad’s growth plans and service to its passenger and freight customers.”

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is an all-new commercial jetliner that brings new efficiencies to airlines and delivers superior comfort to passengers. The Dreamliner is the fastest-selling twin-aisle airplane in aviation history, with more than 800 orders from 58 customers around the world.

The order also included two Boeing 777 Freighters, which increases Etihad’s current Boeing 777 backlog to 12 airplanes. The Abu Dhabi-based airline’s fleet currently includes eight Boeing 777-300ERs and one 777 Freighter.

The 777 freighter is the world’s longest-range, twin-engine freighter and features the lowest trip cost of any large freighter, with high-cargo density and 10-foot (3.1-meter) interior height capability that complements the popular 747 freighter family.

Etihad Airways was voted “World’s Leading Airline” by World Travel Awards. It also followed that victory this year by picking up “Middle East’s Leading Airline”. The carrier has also been nominated for “World’s Leading Airline” at 2011 World Travel Awards Grand Final, which takes place in Doha Qatar on 11 January 2012.

Frankfurt Airport sets new November monthly passenger record

GERMANY-Fraport AG welcomed about 4.3 million passengers at its Frankfurt Airport (FRA) home base during the reporting month of November 2011.

This represented an increase of 4.3 percent or 178,000 passengers, compared to the same month last year. Some 52.2 million passengers used FRA during the eleven-month January-to-November 2011 period – up 6.0 percent year-on-year. Frankfurt Airport set a new November record, surpassing the previous peak November of 2007 by approximately 92,000 passengers.

In November 2011 aircraft movements increased by 3.0 percent year-on-year to 40,111 takeoffs and landings. Similarly, accumulated maximum takeoff weights (MTOWs) grew by 2.1 percent to 2.36 million metric tons. With 178,159 metric tons in the reporting month, airfreight throughput fell by 10.2 percent compared to the historic November high of 2010. From January to November 2011, airfreight tonnage dropped by 2.5 percent year-on-year. In contrast, airmail in November 2011 rose by 5.1 percent to 7,720 metric tons year-on-year.

The Fraport Group’s majority-owned airports continued to make a solid contribution to Group results. Antayla Airport (AYT) in the Turkish Riviera served more than one million passengers in November 2011 – a surge of 15 percent year-on-year. Setting a similar pace, Peru’s Lima Airport (LIM) recorded about 980,000 passengers and growth of 9.1 percent in the reporting month. On Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, Burgas Airport (BOJ) received some 20,000 passengers in November 2011, while Varna Airport (VAR) remains closed for runway renovation work until the end of February 2012. By temporarily taking over VAR’s traffic, Burgas saw its passenger growth jump by 228.3 percent year-on-year.

Passenger traffic at the Fraport Group’s five majority-owned airports (including FRA) exceeded 6.3 million passengers in November 2011 – a gain of 6.4 percent year-on-year.

Emirates raising Venice to double daily

UAE-Emirates' flights to Venice will go double daily from March 25 next year.

The second daily flight, EK137, will leave Dubai at 1545 and arrive in Venice at 2000. The return flight, EK138, will leave Venice Marco Polo Airport at 2150, landing in Dubai 0535 the next day.

A 267-seat A340-300 will operate the route with first, business and economy cabins.

The airline, which started flying to Venice in July 2007, remains the only carrier to offer a non-stop passenger service to and from Dubai, although Qatar Airways launched services from Doha in June.

Salem Obaidalla, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Europe & Russian Federation, said the move will meet a "clear need" for another daily service.

As well as picking up regional tourism and business traffic, the route appeals to passengers in neighbouring Slovenia.

Business Class passengers in Venice can jump on a water limousine airport transfer service, whisking passengers through the Venetian Lagoon.

News of the extra daily flight comes two weeks after Emirates placed a 489-seat A380 on one of its twice daily Rome flights.

Cathay Pacific to revamp economy class

HONG KONG-Cathay Pacific Airways has released details of its new premium economy class product, and announced plans to introduce a brand new economy class seat on most long-haul aircraft.

The premium economy product, which will be progressively introduced on its long-haul flights from March 2012, will soon be available for booking for flights departing from April 2012 onwards. The roll-out of the new economy class seat will also start in March.

Cathay Pacific Chief Executive John Slosar said; “We are really excited about these latest innovations. As always, the comfort of our customers was front and centre of our design process and we believe the results represent a very significant upgrade in the product we offer.

“Premium economy will be a real upgrade over economy, and passengers will get great value for a great product. The seat will have a generous recline and plenty of legroom, and passengers will also enjoy improved service and many other extras.

“Our new long-haul economy class seat will also provide more space and comfort, particularly in the enhanced recline position. And with lots of extras - including the latest in inflight touch-screen personal televisions and mobile device connectivity - those long flights will be even more interesting and enjoyable.”

The economy cabin revamp follows the roll-out of new business class products last year.

The new premium economy product will be positioned in a separate cabin to standard economy class, featuring between 26 and 34 seats. The seat pitch will be 38 inches – six inches more than economy class – and the seat itself will be wider and will recline further. It will also feature a large meal table, cocktail table, foot-rest, a 10.6-inch personal television, an in-seat power outlet, a multi-port connector for personal devices, and extra personal storage space.

On the ground, passengers will receive priority check-in at dedicated counters and priority boarding before economy class passengers. There will also be an increase in baggage allowance to 25kg. Once in flight, passengers will receive an amenity kit, larger pillows and noise-cancelling headsets, as well as a welcome glass of champagne, a bottle of water and additional snack choices.

The new premium economy cabin will be installed on all Cathay Pacific’s long-haul aircraft including Boeing 777-300ERs, Boeing 747-400s, Airbus A330-300s and Airbus A340-300s. The first B777 and A330 featuring Premium Economy Class will enter into service in March 2012.

The airline plans to have 87 aircraft fitted with the product by the end of 2013. Premium economy will initially be featured on the Sydney, Toronto and Vancouver and New York routes, followed by London, Los Angeles, San Francisco, continental Europe and other long-haul routes.

The new long-haul economy class seat will feature a cradle mechanism designed to enhance the level of comfort in the recline position, as well as the high-resolution touch-screen personal televisions, a USB outlet and an iPod/iPhone outlet.

The new seats will be fitted on all Cathay's long-haul B777-300ERs and A330-300s, the first of which will enter service in March flying to Sydney and Toronto. A total of 36 B777s and 26 A330s will be fitted with the seats by December 2013.

Seoul-Da Nang air route opens

KOREA-The Republic of Korea’s Asiana Airlines, under the Kumho Asiana Group, officially operated its first flight linking Seoul with Da Nang City on the evening of December 14th.

The Central Airport Corporation said that the airline will operate two non-stop flights a week on Wednesday and Saturday, using the Airbus 321-200 with 177 seats. Flights will depart from Incheon International Airport to Da Nang International Airport and vice versa.

Asiana Airlines has been operating 37 flights a week between Vietnam and the Republic of Korea.

JAL maintains fuel surcharge for February-March 2012

JAPAN-Japan Airlines (JAL) will maintain current levels of fuel surcharge on all international passenger tickets issued between February 1, 2012 and March 31, 2012.

JAL sets fuel surcharge levels bimonthly based on the 2-month average price of Singapore kerosene-type jet fuel. The price of Singapore kerosene-type jet fuel during the two month period of October and November 2011 averaged US$125.75 per barrel. With reference to the fuel surcharge benchmark list for the fiscal year of 2011, this corresponds to Zone G of fuel surcharges which range from 2,500 yen on a Japan - Korea ticket to 25,000 yen on a Japan - USA ticket per person per sector flown, on tickets purchased in Japan.

This level of surcharge will be applied to all international passenger tickets issued between February 1, 2012 and March 31, 2012.

Fuel Surcharge for the period: February 1, 2012 - March 31, 2012.

Emirates gears up for Dublin

UAE-Much as it did in Buenos Aires, Emirates held a pre-route gala dinner in Dublin last night, ahead of daily flights starting from Dubai on January 9.

More than 800 guests attended the event at the city's Convention Centre, whose exterior was emblazoned in Emirates branding.

Lionel Richie making a surprise appearance as the headline act while performers from Spirit of the Dance provided some local flavour.

Thierry Antinori, Emirates' Executive Vice President, Passenger Sales Worldwide, said it can see "unusually high demand" for the first two weeks after launch. The route will be served by a three-class A330-200.

EK0161 will leave Dubai at 0700 and arrive at Dublin Airport's Terminal 2 at 1130, with EK0162 departing Dublin at 1255 and landing in Dubai at 0025 the next day.

Can Tho-Taiwan flights open during Tet holiday

VIETNAM-The Director of the Vietnam Airlines office in Can Tho city said on Dec. 15 that the national flag carrier will operate 11 direct flights from Can Tho to Taiwan , China and vice versa during the 2012 lunar new year.

There will be six flights from Taipei , Kaohsiung and Taichung to Can Tho and five from Can Tho to these destinations, with the first flight from Taipei to Can Tho on January 17, 2012.

Each flight is capable of carrying 100-130 passengers on Airbus 321 aircraft.

This is the third year the Vietnam Airlines office in Can Tho city has offered a direct air service to Taiwan to allow overseas Vietnamese to return home to celebrate the Tet holiday.

Nok Air to launch Chiang Rai flights

THAILAND-Thai low-cost carrier, Nok Air has announced the launch of flights between Bangkok and Chiang Rai, in the far north of the country. From 28 December, the airline will offer twice daily services from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport. Services will depart the Thai capital at 0920 and 1525 each day, returning from Chiang Rai at 1105 and 1710.

“We are very excited about adding Bangkok–Chiang Rai as the latest route in our domestic network,” said Nok Air's CEO, Patee Sarasin. “We are pleased to be able to provide further convenience to travelers from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, as we add to the 18 existing provinces in Thailand we now fly to.”

All flights will be operated using a 168-seat, single class Boeing 737-400.

China Southern to launch A380 internationally

CHINA-China Southern Airlines expects to receive permission to operate Superjumbos on international routes to early next year. Chief Financial Officer Xu Jiebo told Bloomberg the carrier is currently in talks with the Civil Aviation Administration of China over possible routes and he expects clearance to be given “within the next few months”.

China Southern received its first of five Airbus A380 aircraft in October and will reportedly receive its second this weekend, ready for service on 19 December.  The aircraft is currently in use on domestic routes between Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai. The A380 fleet is intended to challenge Air China’s dominance of international air travel on rotes to Australia, Europe and the US.

Etihad links with Hainan Airlines to boost China offering

UAE-Etihad Airways has signed a codeshare agreement with Hainan Airlines, the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s first codeshare with a Chinese carrier and its 35th with world airlines.

Subject to regulatory approvals, from January 10th 2012, Hainan Airline’s will place its ‘HU’ code on Etihad Airways flights between Abu Dhabi and the airline’s three gateway cities in China: Beijing, Chengdu and Shanghai.

The arrangement will extend to Etihad Airways flights beyond Abu Dhabi to Khartoum International Airport in Sudan.

Etihad Airways chief executive, James Hogan, said the codeshare with Hainan Airlines would help strengthen Etihad’s position in the competitive Chinese market.

“Working with a major player like Hainan Airlines will increase Chinese passenger numbers on our China-Abu Dhabi services and beyond to popular destinations in Africa, Middle East and Europe.

“We look forward to expanding the relationship to include more destinations over time.”

President of Hainan Airlines, Tie Li, said: “The codeshare cooperation with Etihad Airways will reinforce Hainan Airlines’ development in the Middle East and Africa region.

“We have great expectations of the partnership, and believe that through mutual creativity, we will be able to bring synergy and hopefully value to our customers.”

The reciprocal agreement will integrate the Etihad Guest and Hainan Airlines Fortune Wings Club loyalty programs, enabling travellers to earn miles on each other’s flights.

The new codeshare services will go on sale from January 10th 2012, for travel from that date for Beijing and Chengdu flights, and from March 1st 2012 for Shanghai.

Etihad Airways is considered the World’s Leading Airline by the prestigious World Travel Awards.

Slight drop in passenger numbers at Singapore Airlines

SINGAPORE-Singapore Airlines has recorded a 2.6 per cent year-on-year decline in passenger carriage measured in revenue passenger kilometres during November.

The number of passengers carried also decreased 2.7 per cent over the same month last year to 1.39 million.

Capacity measured in available seat kilometres, however, grew by 2.2 per cent.

As a result, passenger load factor (PLF) declined by 3.7 percentage points to 75.2 per cent.

All regions registered lower PLFs over the same month last year.

Despite growth in passenger carriage, load factor for the Americas region declined as the increase in traffic still lagged behind the rate of capacity expansion.

The flood situation in Thailand also affected demand, particularly on the Bangkok routes in the East Asia region.

Europe’s PLF was lower as the ongoing economic uncertainties over the eurozone impacted travel demand.

Cathay traffic climbs in November

HONG KONG-Cathay Pacific and Dragonair have released their combined traffic results for November 2011, with passenger demand rising 6.0% year-on-year.

The growth was driven by routes to and from mainland China, which experienced a 10.9% increase in traffic, and North American, which saw 16.2% growth. The airlines added 8.6% more seat capacity in November, compared to the same month last year, causing average load factors to dip two percentage points to 78.5%. Year-to-date, Cathay and Dragonair have carried 25.1 million passengers with strong average load factors of 80.4%.

“Once again the growth in passenger traffic could not keep pace with the increase in capacity, which accounts for the dip in load factor. It was a similar story to previous months with demand in the premium cabins remaining robust, while in the economy cabins yield came under increasing pressure, on long-haul routes in particular. Bookings for the upcoming Christmas travel peak are in line with expectations, but the outlook for the early part of 2012 is still very uncertain,” said Cathay’s General Manager for Revenue Management, James Tong.

Over 25,000 additional plane seats offered during Tet

VIETNAM-The Mekong Aviation JSC (Air Mekong) will increase the number of its domestic flights from December 23, 2011 to February 5, 2012 by 25%, with up to 25,000 additional seats, in order to meet air travel demands during the upcoming lunar New Year Festival (Tet) holiday.

Air Mekong will also run two flights per day from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat for the Da Lat Flower Festival, and double the number of flights on the Hanoi/ Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc/ Con Dao air routes.

There will be extra flights on other routes as well, including Ho Chi Minh City – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City - Buon Ma Thuot/ Pleiku/ Quy Nhon and Vinh – Dak Lak/ Gia Lai.

Air Mekong began selling tickets on December 5 for travel during the Tet holiday and offered a discounted fare of VND 985,000 (around US$47), not including duties and other charges, for the Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City route before Tet, and vice versa after Tet, while other air fares cost as little as VND 450,000 (around US$26).

JAL reports traffic forecast for 2012 New Year vacation period

JAPAN-JAL Group (JAL) estimates a total of 427,733 international passengers traveling on its flights during the Japanese New Year vacation period from December 22, 2011 to January 9, 2012 based on current reservation figures.

The number of available seats is 2.3% less than previous year while passenger bookings are up 1.9% led by increase in number of travelers to Europe, South East Asia, China and Taiwan. Overall load factor is 3.3 percentage points higher, especially with flights to the United States and resort destinations like Hawaii and Guam surpassing more than 90% in load during this period. Additionally, the JAL Group will operate 53 additional flights, both scheduled and charter, to Anchorage, Guam, Hawaii, Palau and Saipan.

Domestically, the number of available seats is 3% lower than last year, with 1,316,919 passenger bookings for travel within Japan. Load factor is projected to be 52.3%, which is an improvement of 1.5 percentage points from a year before. Flights to Hokkaido and Okinawa have the highest load factors while passenger numbers to and from the Tohoku and Hokuriku regions north east of Japan have shown the greatest increase. JAL Group also plans to operate an additional 83 domestic flights to meet demand on popular routes in Japan.

Forecast JAL Group International Reservations (Japan departures) Dec 22, 2011 - Jan 9, 2012

JAL Routes
Available Seat % Change on 2011
Passenger Total
% Pax Change on 2011
Seat load factor % 2012

Hawaii
-9.9
55,009
- 11.1
90.2

Transpacific
-8.5
40,306
-5.4
90.6

Europe
+5.4
35,296
+0.6
74.2

S.E. Asia
+0.2
113,975
+2.8
84.3

Oceania
-4.5
9,547
-11.2
81.2

Guam
-9.8
9,440
-3.0
94.8

Korea
-2.3
50,101
-11.1
71.9

China
No change
63,065
+31.7
67.6

Taiwan
-1.7
50,994
+14.4
85.8

TOTAL
-2.3
427,733
+1.9
80.3

Forecast JAL Group Domestic Reservations Dec 22, 2011 - Jan 9, 2012

Available Seat % Change on 2011
Passenger Total
% Pax Change on 2011
Seat load factor % 2012

JAL / JEX/ JAIR
-4.3
1,141,872
-1.1
53.5

JTA
+8.2
106,504
+9.5
53.3

RAC
+10.8
10,229
+17.7
40.4

JAC
No change
58,314
+3.8
36.8

TOTAL
-3.0
1,316,919
No change
52.3

AirAsia adds Sabah flights

AirAsia is introducing additional flights to two cities in Sabah - Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. From 6 February 2012, the low-cost carrier will add one extra daily service between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, taking the total frequency to 14 daily flights.

Also from this date, AirAsia will expand its services between KL and Sandakan from two to three daily flights.

Later in February, AirAsia will also boost Sabah’s international connections. Three extra weekly flights will be added to the Kota Kinabalu-Hong Kong route from 21 February, boosting the total frequency from daily to 10 flights per week.

“With these additional flight frequencies, our guests can look forward to added convenience and the liberty to pick the best flight times for their travels, as there are now more options on flight times available for these destinations. Furthermore, we are currently the airline with the highest frequency for the Kota Kinabalu–Hong Kong route, providing guests with seamless connectivity between these two places,” said AirAsia’s Regional Head of Commercial, Kathleen Tan. 

The extra daily KL-Kota Kinabalu flight will depart the Malaysian capital at 1940, arriving in KK at 2215. It will then leave the Sabah state capital at 2240, arriving back into KL at 0110 the next day.

The new Sandakan flight will depart KL at 0940 each daily, arriving in Sandakan at 1230. The return leg will leave Sandakan at 1255, getting back into KL at 1535.

Finally the three extra KK-Hong Kong flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, leaving KK at 0640 and arriving in HK at 0935. The return service departs HK at 1005 and arrives back into KK at 1305.

JAL and WestJet launch codeshare agreement

Japan Airlines (JAL) and WestJet Airlines (WestJet) have entered into a codeshare agreement which will place the "JL" flight indicator on WestJet-operated flights between Vancouver and six Canadian cities - Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Montreal, Toronto and Winnipeg, from December 15, 2011. Reservations and ticket sales for these flights will begin December 14, 2011.

WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada when it started in 1996 and has since then, grown to become the country's second largest airline, operating to 71 cities in North America and the Caribbean with a modern fleet of 96 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft and some 8,300 employees, offering customers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV.

The latest agreement with WestJet will expand the total number of Canadian cities in JAL's network from three to seven, enabling customers to connect smoothly between JAL's daily Narita=Vancouver flight and Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna and Winnipeg, in addition to Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto.

AirAsia spreads wings to Danang

HCMC - AirAsia has just flown to the central coastal city of Danang as the third international airport in Vietnam that the leading low-cost carrier in Asia services.

AirAsia told the Daily last week that its Airbus A320 aircraft with some 168 passengers on board from Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur landed in Danang Airport last Friday, commencing four weekly flights to Vietnam’s third largest international airport after Tan Son Nhat and Noi Bai.

The air carrier flew to Danang one day after a new passenger terminal there was opened to both domestic and international services.

In this winter schedule, AirAsia performs flights between Kuala Lumpur and Danang on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Its plane departs the Malaysian city at 7:35 a.m. and arrives at Danang Airport at 9:15 a.m., and then leaves Danang at 9:45 a.m. on those days.

At present, AirAsia and its member airlines conduct daily services from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to HCMC and Hanoi and vice versa. Indonesia AirAsia currently has four weekly services between Jakarta and HCMC on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

AirAsia is the newest air carrier to launch services to Danang. Also last week, Asiana Airlines started to fly between Korea and this airport, with planned weekly frequency on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Singapore-based airline SilkAir has weekly flights to Danang. National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines operates two weekly chartered services between Danang and China’s Guangzhou in addition to its 26 domestic daily flights.

Ethiopian Airlines joins Star Alliance

ETHIOPIAN-Ethiopian Airlines has become the 28th airline to join the Star Alliance, and the third from the African continent after South African Airways and Egyptair.

Ethiopian is the only carrier to join Star Alliance this year, with Air India’s inauguration having been put on hold in July as the carrier had failed to meet minimum joining conditions.

Addis Ababa-based Ethiopian Airlines has ten Boeing 787 Dreamliners on order, with the first due for delivery in the second quarter of 2012.

The carrier will be the first African airlines to receive the aircraft, and says it will use the 787 to expand its presence into more markets worldwide, including new destinations in the Far East.

Future members of the Star Alliance include Avianca-TACA, Copa Airlines, and Shenzhen Airlines.

Qatar Airways celebrates new flights to Chongqing, Beijing and Hong Kong

Qatar Airways has rounded off its 2011 route expansion in China, celebrating new flights to Chongqing and additional frequency to both Beijing and Hong Kong.

The launch of thrice-weekly services to Chongqing – the fifth Chinese destination for the Middle Eastern carrier – together with three new flights to Beijing and four extra frequencies to Hong Kong have significantly boosted operations in the country.

The capacity hike has been introduced across the three cities over a two-week period taking overall frequency across China up from 25 to 35 flights each week.

Qatar Airways launched non-stop scheduled services to Chongqing in south west China on November 28th, just days after increasing frequency on the Doha – Beijing route to daily.

Effective December 2nd, the airline boosted its daily Hong Kong services to 11 flights each week.

Qatar Airways also operates daily non-stop scheduled passenger flights to both Shanghai and Guangzhou, with dedicated freighter services to Hong Kong six-times-a-week.

Speaking at a press conference in Chongqing, chief executive Akbar Al Baker said economic growth in China was clearly a catalyst for the carrier to do more business in the country, already a strong economic partner with the Qatar.

“We have been closely looking at the opportunities that exist in this vast market to provide greater passenger choice and to give both business and leisure travellers more travel options to and from China, where many cities are largely underserved by international airlines,” he explained.

“Chongqing is a prime example of a city, with its large industrial base and population of almost 30 million people, not having sufficient international air access that it so well deserves.

“By entering this market, we have become the only international airline flying westwards from Chongqing, giving easy one-stop access via our Doha hub to destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, North America and South America.

“With Chongqing’s strategic location on the important shipping waterway of the Yangtze River and being a production hub for motor cars, motorcycles, iron, steel, textiles, machinery and electronics, the city has huge market potential for new flights,” added Al Baker during the media gathering at the Sheraton Chongqing.

With additional services into both Beijing and Hong Kong, Al Baker said that Qatar Airways was stepping up travel options to and from the popular cities, further cementing its position as an airline of choice.

“We now have five cities on our route map across China, increasing the number of passenger flights from 25 to 35 each week, a significant operational increase in the space of just two weeks marking the end of yet another highly successful year in which we launched 15 new routes,” he said.

“It gives me great pleasure to be celebrating our expansion here in Chongqing, home to the iconic, magnificent Three Gorges.

“We look forward to developing our network further in China, which we believe has plenty more opportunities, particularly inland Chinese cities where demand for air travel is just as high as the traditional coastal gateways.”

Qatar shares a strong relationship with China, based on established trade links.

Qatar is China’s largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) while exports from China to Qatar centre on mechanical and electrical goods.

Qatar is home to more than 6,000 Chinese nationals, of which over five per cent work at Qatar Airways – 330 employed at head office in Doha and almost 80 in China.

Qatar Airways is also celebrating being recognized as the Middle East’s Leading Airline Business Class by the prestigious World Travel Awards.

Malaysian Airlines shrink to grow

MALAYSIA-In a bid to lift its profits out of the red, Malaysian Airlines has unveiled a survival plan that will see the carrier cut loss-making routes, win back customers and set up a regional premium carrier.

Releasing plans last week, the carrier said in an online statement that the goal was to return to the black by 2013 and the first to achieving its goals includes axing loss-making services.

While the carrier didn’t highlight all the routes that will be cut, it did mention that Cape Town, Johannesburg and Buenos Aires were among the first to go.  The ‘to shrink to grow’ attitude is following successful turnarounds of other airlines such as JAL and Garuda, stating the aggressive network cuts are necessary for survival.

Malaysia Airlines will also deploy 23 new aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art passenger amenities in 2012 in an effort to win back customers.

The launch of a new regional premium airline in 2012 to connect Malaysia to ASEAN destinations and key cities in South Asia and Greater China is also proposed to boost profits. 

While facing a number of inherent challenges, Malaysia Airlines can leverage on its strengths including its award-winning cabin crew which consistently ranks in the top two positions by Skytrax, acknowledged as the industry’s benchmark.

The airlines competitive cost position will also be an added advantage for the airline.

“With the full support of our team in embracing the three organisational imperatives, Malaysia Airlines is confident that it will be able to successfully implement the Business Plan and realise the airline’s vision to become the preferred premium carrier,” Group Chief Executive Officer, Ahmad Jauhari Yahya said.

Jetstar denies reports of takeover

VIETNAM-Jetstar has fended off reports that its Asian offshoot Jetstar Pacific is going to be absorbed into Vietnam Airlines due to the carrier’s ongoing financial problems.

A report in a Vietnamese newspaper claimed the structural change was going ahead as the low cost carrier was risking bankruptcy.

In a company statement by Jetstar the airline reiterated its commitment to Jetstar Pacific and dismissed claims that it is to be absorbed as part of a proposed airline deal.

Jetstar Pacific is majority owned by the Vietnamese State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) and 27 per cent is owned by the Qantas Group.

The misleading claims stem from reports of a proposed ownership swap between SCIC and Vietnam Airlines, a swap that the Qantas Group has publicly announced in a statement that it supports.

According to a Jetstar statement the proposed ownership swap with SCIC would leave the Qantas Group stake in the airline unchanged.

"Contrary to reports, no agreement has been formalised and the ownership structure for Jetstar Pacific remains unchanged,'' a Jetstar spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, the International Pilots Association said the move indicates the risks of the Qantas group branching out its operations into Asia.

The APIA claimed the airline has “failed” and now wants Qantas to explain why Jetstar Pacific has failed and to explain its losses.

Jetstar has faced a number of issues over the last few years, including safety violations and government investigations into fuel hedging losses that briefly saw two Qantas Executives barred from leaving Vietnam.

Hong Kong starts airport expansion

HONG KONG-Work has started on the new Midfield development project at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) held a grand groundbreaking ceremony for the project on Friday, with phase one of the project scheduled for completion by the end of 2015.

The Midfield area is the last piece of land on the airport island available for large-scale development. It is located to the west of Terminal 1, between the two existing runways. Phase one of the project includes the construction of a five-level Midfield Concourse with total floor area of 78,000m², 20 aircraft parking stands, an Automated People Mover (APM) extending from Terminal 1, a cross-field taxiway, and other supporting facilities. The development also incorporates a range of green initiatives, such as the installation of one of the largest areas of rooftop solar panels in Hong Kong.

The works are expected to cost HK$9 billion (US$1.2 billion) and create 2,000 jobs during construction. When completed, the airport will have an additional handling capacity of 10 million passengers per year.

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Transport & Housing Eva Cheng said at Friday’s ceremony; “Today we witness the kicking off of the construction works of the first phase of the midfield expansion development. With the completion of the expansion in 2015, we will be able to handle 10 million more passengers per year and provide more parking stands for both passengers and cargo operation. This is an important addition to the infrastructure inventory of the Hong Kong International Airport. Having regard to the increase in the air traffic demand, the midfield expansion project will be developed in phases to increase the airport’s handling capacity to about 70 million  passengers and six million tonnes of cargo, which is expected to cope with air traffic demand by 2020.”

Ms Cheng added that while projects and plans will take care of the city’s needs up to 2020, Hong Kong needs to continue moving forward with its long-term plans. Referring to a three-month public consultation exercise conducted by AAHK to collate public views on two development options set out in the Master Plan 2030, the Secretary said; “We look forward to receiving a recommendation from the Authority on the way forward soon. We will study the recommendation carefully with a view to deciding as soon as we can on the next stage of work.”

AAHK’s Chairman, Dr Marvin Cheung Kin-tung said; “While the phase one project development is to help HKIA cope with the increasing passenger traffic and needs for parking stands in the medium term, our efforts to pave the way for our long-term development continue. We recently completed the three-month public consultation on the airport's Master Plan 2030, and we remain on course to submit our recommendations to the government before the end of this month.”

AAHK’s Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Hui Hon-chung, added; “The Midfield Concourse is designed to be highly environmentally friendly and aspires to be one of the first BEAM Plus Gold Standard certified buildings in Hong Kong. Its over 35 green initiatives cover various aspects ranging from the building's site, materials, energy and water use to construction methods. We hope that through our continuing efforts, the airport will grow with Hong Kong in a sustainable way.”

BEAM Plus is an assessment scheme designed to certify the environmental performance of buildings.

The design of the Midfield Concourse adopts incorporates more than 1,200m² of rooftop solar panels, while  80% of the concourse’s lighting will use LED lights, and high-performance glazing panels, solar shading and north-facing skylights will be used to maximise natural light and reduce solar heat gain.

In addition, during construction, 60% of the waste produced will be recycled. When in operation, the concourse will use recycled grey water, condensate water and rain water for the water-cooled chillers used in the air conditioning system. In addition, the APM system connecting Terminal 1 to the concourse will use the energy generated from braking to support its operation.

Dubai 'passed 50 million passengers' in 2011

UAE-Dubai International Airport has handled more than 50 million passengers this year.

Speaking at the opening of the first annual Emerging Markets Airport Suppliers Conference & Exhibition in Dubai this morning, HE Khalifa Suhail Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai World Central - Dubai Aviation City Corporation, said: "I am told that, by the end of October, the airport handled 50 million passengers."

It means the Middle East's leading airport could now eclipse the projected total of 51 million passengers in 2011.

He said the ongoing expansion of Emirates and Flydubai means the airport "cannot build fast enough to accommodate such growth".

"The addition of A380s, B787s and prevalance of low-cost carriers are fast changing the demands on our business," he added.

Despite the precarious global economic climate, he said the Middle East's aviation sector remains in good health.

"There's no state which isn't building a new airport or expanding an existing one. Aviation is one sector that hasn't really been affected by the downturn."

Injuries reported in Sriwijaya 737-300 run-off

One of Indonesian carrier Sriwijaya Air's Boeing 737-300s appears to have suffered substantial damage in an overrun at Yogyakarta airport yesterday.

The aircraft, arriving from Surabaya to where it had reportedly diverted for bad weather, approached the airport from the west, according to Indonesia's government news agency, indicating an attempt to land on Runway 09.

It seemed to be unable to decelerate and drifted to the left of the runway, coming to a halt on a grassy bank at about 17:15, it added.

Five of those on board - a total of 129 passengers and four crew - were injured in the accident. While the agency identifies the aircraft as carrying registration PK-CKN, this aircraft is a 737-400, and the airframe involved appears to be PK-CKM.

Images from the scene show the aircraft apparently resting on its fuselage underside. Investigators have opened an inquiry into the event.

PICTURES: A350 fuselage arrives at Toulouse assembly line

Airbus has received the first major section of the A350 twinjet at its final assembly line in Toulouse, with delivery of the forward fuselage from the Saint-Nazaire facility.

The 21m (69ft) cockpit and forward cabin has been transported to Toulouse by Airbus A300-600ST freighter.

It will form part of airframe MSN5000, the static test example, and will be mated with the centre fuselage in the first quarter of next year.

 

The first vertical fin, manufactured in the German plant at Stade, arrived at the Toulouse line on 19 December, while the Hamburg facility took delivery of the first rear fuselage - assembled at Getafe in Spain - on 16 December.

Airbus will begin final assembly of MSN1, the first flight-test A350, in the second quarter of 2012.

Russia's Transaero to take four 787s

Russian carrier Transaero is to acquire four 262-seat Boeing 787s under an agreement which continues its recent fleet-renewal programme.

The airline said it had signed an agreement with the US airframer to take the aircraft. It has not disclosed an engine selection.

Transaero said the twinjets would be configured with four first-class, 14 business-class and 244 economy-class seats.

Director general Olga Pleshakova said the airline was "sticking to a principle of innovation" with the decision.

She added that the carrier had already made advance payments to secure the 787s, which will be used to replace Boeing 767s used by the Moscow-based operator.

"This aircraft, which has become a symbol of emerging technology, has the highest efficiency," said Pleshakova.

Transaero has already tentatively signed for Airbus A380 and Boeing 747-8 aircraft, and placed an order for eight Airbus A320neos.

Saudi Arabia signs agreement to order up to 84 new F-15SAs, upgrades for 70 F-15Ss

Saudi Arabia has signed an agreement that could lead to the purchase of up to 84 Boeing F-15SA fighters, upgrades for 70 F-15S fighters in a package worth $29.4 billion.

The long-awaited agreement was signed on 24 December, but announced formally by US government officials five days later.

"This has been long in the making," said Andrew Shapiro, assistant secretary of state for political and military affairs. "Discussions over providing aircraft for the Saudi air force have taken place over a number of years. We've negotiated the agreement over the past year and it was signed on Christmas Eve."

The package of up to 84 new fighters includes General Electric F110-GE-129 improved performance engines, Raytheon APG-63(V)3 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, Raytheon AIM-120C-7 advanced medium range air to air missiles (AMRAAMs) and AIM-9X Sidewinders, according to the original notification letter.

The deal allows Boeing to preserve the F-15 production line in St. Louis, Missouri, saving up to 50,000 jobs around the country, said Andrew Shapiro, assistant secretary of state for political and military affairs.

Boeing has been waiting for Saudi Arabia to sign a contract since the US government notified Congress 15 months ago.

In October, Boeing chief executive officer Jim McNerney assured market analysts that the deal could be signed quickly, citing without the elaborating the recent death of Saudi Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul Azziz as one of the factors that could accelerate the process.

However, the timing of first delivery means Boeing may have to overcome a break in the production line.
Boeing is scheduled to deliver the last F-15Es on order by South Korea and Singapore in 2013.
But the delivery of the first new F-15SA is not scheduled until 2015, said Jim Miller, principal deputy under secretary of defense for policy. The retrofits of the APG-63 on Saudi Arabia's 70 F-15S' will start in 2014, he added.

Lao Airlines eyes clear skies ahead

LAOS-In an interview on Wednesday, Lao Airlines Sales and Marketing General Manager Mr Alain Walter said “As Laos develops, the number of customers opting to travel by air will increase and will overtake other means of personal transport.”
Mr Walter is a professional consultant from France who will assist Lao Airlines in providing excellent customer services.

He will work for Lao Airlines for two and a half years to develop market strategy, with the aim of consolidating the airline's future passenger turnover. He has been working for the company for three months.

Mr Walter said “As the development of Lao Airlines continues, it will be a leading air transporter in the future.”

“Lao Airlines is in the process of innovating and improving itself to become a leading air provider, both on a domestic and international scale,” airline Vice President Mr Sengpraseuth Mathouchanh said, speaking at a reception in Vientiane on Wednesday for foreign experts and professionals.

Until now Lao Airlines has been flying ATR and MA aircraft, connecting Lao cities to the world.

As of last month, and with the ongoing support of the Lao government, Lao Airlines has now added two Airbus A320 to its fleet.

Mr Sengpraseuth said “Partly we are preparing for Visit Laos Year in 2012, along with the ASEM Summit and many other important conferences that have been scheduled. As part of a new phase in Lao Airlines' expansion and to help us provide the best for our customers, we have acquired experts and professionals including pilots, engineers, technicians, and marketing and public affairs staff to help us in these matters.”

“I strongly believe that with this team, we are in the best of hands to provide a fast, secure, efficient and enjoyable service for our customers.”

“Thank you each and every one of you for your help in transmitting the knowledge and skills needed to our staff, in order to build Lao Airlines into a leading and valuable passenger carrier,” he said.

A Lao Airlines official said the experts and professionals were recruited from France, Cambodia, Malaysia and America. Staff have also been recruited from Airbus in France.

The airline's two new Airbus fly from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, and internationally to Kunming in China, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, to Singapore, and to Bangkok.

I n 2014, Lao Airlines expects to take delivery of at least two more jet aircraft, which will be able to fly longer distances. The airline plans to fly to Japan, the Republic of Korea and to Guangzhou in China.

The first local private carrier, Lao Central Airlines Public Company, will take to the skies this month. It will initially fly two 150-seater Boeing 737-400 aircraft and will make its inaugural flight once its second aircraft has arrived in Vientiane.

Lao Central initially expects to operate flights to Thailand and then to Vietnam, China and Cambodia. After that, all of the Asean countries remain a possibility. By the end of next year, the airline also hopes to take delivery of nine Russian jets.

PAL expands passenger insurance offering

PHILIPPINES-Philippine Airlines (PAL) has expanded its arrangement with insurance firm Chartis, to offer all passengers the option of purchasing travel insurance.

Previously, only passengers who booked their PAL flights via the airline’s website were offered the option of buying travel insurance from Chartis.

Now, passengers booking flights through PAL’s reservations call centre and ticket offices or at accredited travel agencies can purchase Chartis travel insurance.

JAL to fly Dreamliners to Delhi and Beijing

JAPAN-Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced more routes for its new fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The airline, which will start taking delivery of its Dreamliners next year, will deploy the new twin-aisle jets on routes from Tokyo Narita to New Delhi and Moscow, and from Tokyo Haneda to Beijing. These routes are in addition to the previously announced service connecting Narita with Boston, which will launch on 22 April 2012.

JAL has ordered a total of 35 787-8 Dreamliners, which Boeing promises will be 20% more fuel-efficient than comparable aircraft.

AirAsia celebrates 10 years with promotion

AirAsia has launched a promotion in conjunction with its 10th Anniversary on 8 December 2011.

For fares from as low as 10 sen*, travellers can fly from Kuala Lumpur to various exciting domestic destinations such as Penang, Langkawi, Kota Bharu, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, plus international destinations such as Singapore, Jakarta, Bali, Medan (Indonesia), Bangkok, Hat Yai, Phuket (Thailand) and Hanoi (Vietnam).

The booking period for this promotion is from 8 – 11 December 2011, for travel between 1 July and 27 October 2012. *Excluding airport tax & fuel surcharge and other optional fees / charges. Terms and conditions apply.

AirAsia Regional Head of Commercial, Kathleen Tan said, “In conjunction with our 10th Anniversary, we are offering the public with the opportunity to fly to various exciting destinations with fares from as low as 10 sen. This is our ‘thank you’ to all our guests for the support given all these years. Apart from this ultra low fares, we will also be reducing our processing fee which is applicable for all online transactions made via credit or charge cards on our website from RM8 per guest per sector, to only RM5 per guest per sector.

Direct debit transaction remains FREE of charge with seven of our bank partners [Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Bank Rakyat, Ambank] in Malaysia. We always listen to our guests’ needs for lower fares, so come and grab this splendid offer to realize holiday aspirations to exotic and invigorating AirAsia destinations!”

Hong Kong Airlines reveals seat plan for all Club class A330

HONG KONG-Seatplans.com has added a seat plan for Hong Kong Airlines’ new, all-Club-class A330 aircraft, which is due to commence flights out of London Gatwick from March.
The dedicated fleet of three aircraft will be configured in two Club classes, with 34 seats in Club Premier and 82 in Club Classic. Club Premier will consist of suites in a 1-2-1 configuration which convert into fully flat, 6'1" beds. Club Classic will feature cradle recliner seats with a 51 inch seat pitch in a 2-2-2 configuration.

Each cabin will have its own bar and both classes will be able to take advantage of 110v in seat power supply, on board connectivity provided by OnAir and a Thales inflight entertainment (IFE) system providing audio visual on demand (AVOD) entertainment.

Gerard Clarke, General Manager UK for Hong Kong Airlines said: “The concept for the all-Club-Class aircraft will provide passengers with a private jet style ambience and an exceptional crew-to-guest ratio, and we are confident that we have the right knowledge and experience to make a success of the new all Club Class daily service.”

Tickets for the service are on sale from the carrier’s website now and will commence March 8. The flight will depart Gatwick’s North Terminal daily at 2130 and arrive in Hong Kong at 1805 the following day. The return leg will depart Hong Kong at 2350, arriving back in London at 0555 the next day.

Vietnam Airlines takes off for London

VIETNAM-Vietnam Airlines’ first ever direct flight to London took off last night. The service, VN145, departed Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport at 2345 last night, and will arrive at London’s Gatwick airport at 06020 this morning.

The national carrier will operate four weekly flights to London, with services departing Hanoi on Mondays and Thursdays and Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesdays and Fridays. All flights will be operated using a Boeing 777 aircraft.

THAI Smile tweaks strategy

THAILAND-Thai Smile, a ‘light premium’ sub-brand of Thai Airways International, due to fly July, next year, has tweaked its strategy to emphasise mainly regional links, while reducing its domestic operations to just 20% of system capacity, down from an earlier 50%.
The airline will start with regional routes and develop a trimmed domestic network later, officials reported Tuesday.

Thai Smile managing director, Woranate Laprabang, said: “We have decided to go for regional routes first and leave domestic services to five cities – Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chiang Rai and Surat Thani that were announced to start next year to on hold.”

He confirmed one consideration was THAI’s 49% financial stake (increased from 39% in October) in Nok Air, which concentrates solely on domestic routes from its Don Mueang Airport base.

“It will prevent market confusion and we think THAI and Nok Air can cover domestic services well enough,” he said.

Previously the ratio between domestic and regional routes had been set at 50:50, but in the new strategy, domestic routes will figure at around 15% to 20%.

No details were available on regional destinations.

“We are awaiting approval on exact routes. “It is uncertain at the moment. We previously made announcement then things changed so by late January, we should be able to name the destinations,” said Mr Woranate.

Thai Smile’s regional destinations are likely to include cities in China, India and ASEAN within a four-hour flight range. It will replace THAI on some of the routes that have not been profitable for the full-service airline.

Five destinations are planned in 2012 as aircraft roll out.

“The airline is part of our strategy to exploit ASEAN open skies in 2015. We have to lay the foundation and head off competition… like Malaysia’s low cost franchisee which co-invests in several countries.”

Thai Smile has already got Cabinet approval to order 11 Airbus A320, which will roll out from June next year until 2015.

But to catch up with growing competition, Thai Smile needs more aircraft to operate in the business model efficiently. Mr Woranate said subject to approval, the company would obtain additional aircraft during 2013 and 2014 because during those two years, Thai Smile would be limited to just two new aircraft joining the fleet annually.

According to the delivery plan, the first A320 aircraft will arrive in June; the second and third in August and the fourth in September. In 2013 and 2014, two aircraft will join the fleet each year and the last three are due in 2015.

This will limit the airline’s ability to add destinations quickly in the initial three years and is reflected in a low estimate of just 300,000 passengers a year in 2012. But by 2013 the airline claims it could carry 1 million passengers earning Bt5 billion revenue.

“Our expectations are to stop the drain in market share for THAI by competing head-on with its rivals. Regionally, THAI has 29% market share now… the objective is to stop the erosion in market share.”

Reservations for Thai Smile flights will be open from April, about three month prior to the launch, through all THAI’s distribution channels. The fares will float between full-service and low-cost airline offers.

Thai Smile is recruiting cabin crew and pilots as well as finding a designer for its uniform due to be unveiled in March.

Thai Smile is a business unit of Thai Airways International and will operate under the TG code. The service model is light premium, rather than low-cost. Passengers will still get a snack, free baggage allowance, free seat selection and mileage accrual.

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THAI launches biofuels flight and first biofuels passenger flight in Asia

THAILAND-Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) is set to be the first airline in Asia to fly a commercial passenger flight using biofuels, to support the Company’s Travel Green initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.
 Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, President of THAI, said that under the Environmental and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, or “Travel Green,” THAI has developed an important project on sustainability, in line with His Majesty the King’s vision on renewable energy. In raising environmental awareness and the effects of global warming THAI, as the national carrier, has opted to operate a commercial flight using biofuel renewable energy as one way to help in the reduction of carbon dioxide. THAI hopes that its support and participation in using biofuels will encourage other carriers in the region to choose biofuel renewable energy over fossil fuels.

To reach sustained production of biofuels for aviation in Thailand, THAI will bring together organizations and businesses such as petroleum producers, research firms, educational institutions, aircraft and engine manufacturers, and different government bodies affiliated with the aviation industry to take part in the development. This project called “Sustainable Biofuels Development for Aviation Industry” aims to create both demand and supply, through clear national policies on biofuels, which can help to generate revenue in the agricultural sector. An important outcome is the potential for greater cooperation among the different aviation bodies at the national level for sound support and policies on sustained development of biofuels.

In order to boost awareness and support use of aviation biofuels in Thailand, THAI is operating its “THAI First Flight with Biofuels” TG8421 on 21 December 2011. This inaugural biofuels flight departs from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport at 14.00 hours on Boeing 777-200 aircraft, carrying members of the press and representatives from organizations and government functions that support the biofuels project, such as PTT Public Company Limited, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Limited, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited, Rolls Royce, and Boeing.

On 22 December 2011, THAI’s flight TG104 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, will be the “The First Passenger Biofuels Flight in Asia”. Revenue from this flight will go towards the development of renewable energy in Thailand.  In an effort to promote environmental awareness among youths, THAI is flying 100 students and teachers on flight TG104 called the “Pah Nong Tong Fah”.

Mr. Saran Rangkasiri, Executive Vice President for the Oil Business Unit, PTT Public Company Limited, said that PTT pioneered the use of renewable energy in Thailand and continuously supports the development of environmentally conscious quality products. PTT has provided support by obtaining eight tons of aviation biofuels, valued at 2.5 million baht, which was imported from Sky NRG, a leading aviation biofuels agent in the Netherlands. Sky NRG also arranges aviation biofuels for KLM and Finnair for flights flown within Europe.

Biofuels have been tested by international airlines, including Air New Zealand, Continental Airlines, and KLM, which showed it has the same quality as Jet A-1 traditional petroleum-based fossil fuel. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International) has certified that biofuels combined with Jet A-1 fuel, at a maximum ratio of 50:50, can be used in place of pure Jet A-1 fuel in accordance with the ASTM D7566 standard. In order that THAI’s special flight may be “Travel Green,” PTT MCC Biochem Co. Ltd. and PTT Polymer Marketing Co. Ltd. cooperated with plastic producers to manufacture laminated paper cups made from 100% recycled glass that will be introduced for the first time to the business sector in Thailand. This cooperation is an important step for the country to build global confidence and is a sign of readiness to become the “Bio hub of Asia,” complementing PTT’s vision and businesses in the energy sector while maintaining Corporate Social Responsibility for the long term.

Mr. Ralph L. “Skip” Boyce, President of Boeing Southeast Asia, Boeing International Corporation, said that this flight which is part of THAI’s “Sustainable Biofuels Development for Aviation Industry” project is an initiative that brings together different players in the industry; from aircraft to engine manufacturers, research companies, fuel producers, education institutions, government bodies, and the media. As an aircraft manufacturer, Boeing does more than just bring newer, more efficient products to its customers, such as the significantly more fuel efficient 787 which THAI will operate in the future. Working together with leading researchers and industries, Boeing is pioneering ways to develop biofuels and is committed to working with industry partners to find the means to a quieter, cleaner, and more cost effective flight experience for airline customers and their passengers.

Wing Commander Prajak Sajjasophon, Managing Director of Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Public Company Limited, said that AEROTHAI supports THAI’s biofuels efforts through air traffic control, flight operations plan and design, so that the first biofuels flight runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Best practices and expertise in aeronautical radio are implemented based AEROTHAI’s experience with the “THAI Aspire Flight” which was conducted as a “perfect flight” to reduce global warming. During that flight, the best technology, processes, new flight operations techniques, and carbon dioxide emissions reduction were used to reflect THAI’s “Travel Green” concept.  The following special procedures are used for “THAI’s First Flight with Biofuels,” as follows:

1. Use of “surface optimization,” which is optimum ground handling at the airline that is implemented to decrease delays and reduce fuel waste during takeoff.
2. Use of “continuous climb,” which involves gradual and steady climb, instead of change of height level.
3. Flying “direct routes” or by flying a direct flight path that is within closest proximity.
4. Use of “continuous descent operation” (CDO), which is gradual descent at a regular pace while landing at the airport. This makes the flight more effective, modern, comfortable, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Flight Lieutenant Anirut Thanombutr, Managing Director of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited, said that Airports of Thailand (AOT) administers six primary airports in Thailand, with cares for the environment and society. With regards to reduction of carbon dioxide emissions the AOT has implemented “Green Buildings” in its passenger terminal building at Suvarnabhumi Airport, using natural light and energy originating from heated water transformed into electricity for cooling purposes. This effectively reduces the use of electricity.  AOT plans to implement “green building” at other airports, such as Phuket International Airport.  AOT has also put into action “Clean & Renewable Energy” whereby ground handling vehicles and airport shuttles are electrically powered to avoid air pollution.  In addition, AOT uses “Hybrid Synergy Airport Limousines”.  “Fixed Electrical Ground Power Supply” system is also used to reduce “Aircraft Auxiliary Unit” in the airport parking bay area, which normally releases a substantial amount of carbon dioxide emission.  Furthermore, some stations use solar-powered energy to generate electricity for equipment and communication tools that is used to measure noise pollution.

THAI is cooperating with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in working towards reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 5% by the year 2020, and equivalent to zero carbon dioxide emissions by the year 2057.  Currently, the aviation industry releases 2 percent of carbon dioxide in the world, which is not much when compared to other industries.  However, if carbon dioxide emissions are not reduced by 5 percent per year, it will result in a carbon dioxide increase in the environment by 3 percent, or up to 20 million tons per year.

THAI is proud be the first airline in Asia to operate the commercial passenger domestic flight using biofuels, based on the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy that focuses on “Travel Green”.

In-flight Wi-Fi access for Qantas customers

Qantas has announced its passengers will soon be able to access the internet in-flight using their personal electronic devices as the airline commences an in-flight connectivity pilot.

Qantas Chief Executive Alan Joyce said the carrier will deploy internet capability on six of its A380s on selected flights between Sydney and Los Angeles and Melbourne and Los Angeles.

“From February next year our customers travelling between Australia and Los Angeles will have the opportunity to participate in our in-flight connectivity trial and communicate online from the 35,000 feet,” Mr Joyce said.

“Our customers will be able to access the Internet via their Wi-Fi enabled personal electronic devices, such as iPhones, iPads and BlackBerrys, on Qantas for the first time.”

The trial will initially be available to first and business class passengers and will form part of Qantas’ ongoing strategic evaluation of connectivity options.

Next month Qantas will also conduct a trial delivering over 200 hours of in-flight entertainment to passengers via iPads provided in each seat of a dedicated B767-300 aircraft.

Customers travelling on the dedicated B767 will also be able to watch Qantas's in-flight entertainment on their laptop computer, smartphone, tablet or other wi-fi enabled device.

"Q Streaming utilises cutting edge wireless technology that enables customers to connect to the Qantas on demand IFE system, with their wi-fi devices," Mr Joyce said.

"We are excited and proud to be the first airline worldwide to pilot this ground-breaking technology."

Following the trail, the airline will evaluate opportunities for the application of Q Streaming across both the domestic and international fleet.