Qatar Airways announces new route to Edinburgh

By BA Staff

Qatar Airways will begin five flights weekly to the Scottish capital of Edinburgh effective 28 May 2014.

The new route will be served by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in a two-cabin configuration, offering passengers 22 Business Class and 232 Economy Class seats.

QR 027 departs Doha (DOH) at 08:00 on all days except Tuesdays and Thursdays and arrives Edinburgh (EDI) at 13:15
QR 028 departs Edinburgh (EDI) at 14:45 on all days except Tuesdays and Thursdays and arrives Doha (DOH) at 23:40

In 2013, Qatar Airways has launched eleven destinations to date – Gassim (Saudi Arabia), Najaf (Iraq), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Chicago (USA), Salalah (Oman), Basra (Iraq), Sulaymaniyah (Iraq), Chengdu (China), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Ta’if (Saudi Arabia) and most recently Clark Manila International Airport (Philippines).

Over the next few weeks and months, the airline will expand its network with services to Hangzhou, China (December 20, 2013), Sharjah and Dubai World Central, both in the UAE (March 1, 2014), Philadelphia, USA (April 2, 2014) and Miami, USA (June 10, 2014).

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Boeing and Korean Air commence construction of new aviation training facility

By BA Staff

Boeing participated in a groundbreaking ceremony with Incheon and Korean Air for construction of Korea's largest new aviation training facility to be located in Incheon's Free Economic Zone (IFEZ).

The new campus, which is slated to open in 2015, will allow Boeing to expand the scope of its training business in Korea and continue its long-standing training relationship with Korean Air.

The facility, once complete, will house 12 full-flight simulators for pilot training programs supporting Korean Air's flight training needs.
Once the campus is complete, Boeing will relocate its existing training support staff and equipment to the new facility.

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Cathay Pacific names new chief operating officer

By BA Staff

Rupert Hogg, 51, will take up the position of Chief Operating Officer of Cathay Pacific Airways from March 2014. At the same time Hogg will become a Director of Cathay Pacific.

Hogg takes over in the role from Ivan Chu, who will become Cathay Pacific’s Chief Executive. The current Chief Executive, John Slosar, will succeed Christopher Pratt as Chairman of the airline, John Swire & Sons (H.K.) Ltd, Swire Pacific Ltd, Swire Properties Ltd and Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Co. Ltd.

Hogg is Director Sales & Marketing – a position he took up in August 2010 with responsibility for Cathay Pacific Group’s sales and marketing activities worldwide. From 2008 to 2010 he was Director Cargo, overseeing all aspects of the Group’s cargo business including operations, marketing and sales.

Mr Hogg joined John Swire & Sons in 1986 and worked with Cathay Pacific from 1988 to 1997 in a variety of management positions, both in Hong Kong and South-East Asia.

From 2002 to 2008, Mr Hogg was Managing Director of James Finlay Limited - a wholly owned subsidiary of John Swire & Sons Limited, and the holding company of a group engaged in substantial tea and horticultural businesses. From 1998 to 2002, Mr Hogg held management positions in the Swire group in Australia.

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Marginal decrease in August US passenger traffic from a year earlier

By BA Staff

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reported that U.S. airlines carried 67.7 million systemwide (domestic and international) scheduled service passengers in August 2013, 0.1 per cent fewer than in August 2012. Domestic passengers decreased 0.9 percent to 58.1 million, and international passengers increased 5.5 per cent to 9.6 million compared to August 2012.

Total U.S. airlines' passenger traffic for the first eight months of 2013 increased 0.4 per cent 502.7 million, compared to the same period last year. Domestic passengers remain virtually unchanged at 435.3 million, while international passenger traffic increased 3.1 per cent to 67.4 million.

System-wide and domestic load factors, the proportion of capacity measured Available Seat-Miles (ASMs) vs. utilisation measured in Revenue Passenger-Miles (RPMs), remained below the all-time August highs reached in 2011, while international load factors hit record highs of 87 per cent as RPM growth far exceeded ASM capacity expansion.

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Kuwait Airways Chairman suspended for announcing plans to buy five A330s from Jet AIrways

by Devesh Agarwal

Yesterday, Reuters quoting Kuwait Airways Chairman Sami Al-Nesif, reported that Kuwait Airways is buying five A330-200 aircraft from India's Jet Airways. According to Mr. Al-Nesif, Kuwait Airways wanted to take 11 jets from its old fleet of 17 out of service and use the Jet Airways' aircraft as a stop gap measure till its order of new Airbus aircraft commence delivery in 2018. Kuwait's present fleet average age is 18 years.

This would have been another major financial boost for the financially beleaguered airline, which finally concluded its deal with Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways PJSC for a 24% stake sale recently.

In its second quarter FY2014 earnings conference call, Jet Airways' executives had indicated the airline was trying to lease out much of its A330-200 fleet which has been sitting idle at airports across India, as the airline pulled out international flights due to poor performance. The airline lost over 123 crores in fees and costs relating to the non-utilisation of its A330 fleet in the second quarter alone.

However, later in the day, in another report, Reuters said the Kuwait Airways chief, has been suspended, after he had announced plans to buy five used aircraft from India's Jet Airways. The report went on to quote an unnamed source who said the deal was in doubt.

Talk about bizarre developments.

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InterGlobe and CAE inaugurate India’s largest pilot training facility

by Devesh Agarwal

Rahul Bhatia, InterGlobe, Marc Parent, CAE

InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of India’s largest domestic airline, IndiGo, and CAE, a global leader in flight simulators and training, inaugurated India’s largest pilot training facility in India. Located in Greater Noida, in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Centre, CAE Simulation Training Private Limited (CSTPL), is a joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises and CAE with an initial investment of $25 million.

The Centre starts with two CAE Series 5000 A320 full-flight simulators certified level D, and has the capacity to expand to six simulators. The facility provides "wet" and "dry" type-rating, recurrent, conversion and jet indoctrination training for commercial aircraft pilots of IndiGo, and will commence training, GoAir’s A320 pilots from December. CSTPL will also be the first centre in India to impart Airbus certified training, and can train up to 5,000 pilots per year.

CSTPL is the fourth aviation training location that CAE operates in India. CAE already trains more than 1,500 crew members every year at its training centre in Bengaluru, the first independent training centre in India and the first to earn approval as a fixed-wing Type Rating Training Organisation (TRTO). CAE also operates a joint venture helicopter training centre in Bengaluru and in partnership with the Government of India, CAE operates ab-initio flight schools in Gondia and Rae Bareli, located in the parliamentary constituencies of former civi aviation minister Praful Patel, and India's first political dynasty, the Gandhis.

India is expected to be the fourth largest aviation market in the world, with a large demand for narrow-body pilots. IndiGo and GoAir have placed orders for 180 and 72 A320 family aircraft respectively. IndiGo already has 71 A320-232 aircraft in its fleet from an original order for 100 A320s.

The country's other two major carriers, Air India and Jet Airways have their own in-house training facilities.
 

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Boeing, TUI travel PLC complete order for two 787-8s

By BA Staff

Boeing and TUI Travel, one of the world's leading leisure travel companies, have completed an order for two 787-8 Dreamliners. The deal, worth $424 million at current list prices, extends TUI Travel's 787 commitment to 15 airplanes. The purchase was originally attributed on the Boeing orders and deliveries website to an unidentified customer.

 TUI took delivery of its first 787-8 Dreamliner in May and now has four airplanes in service.

TUI Travel originally ordered the 787 in February 2005. Currently, the Group's subsidiary Thomson Airways is using the airplane on such routes as Thailand, Caribbean and the Maldives.

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Iraqi Airways signs letter of intent for up to 16 Bombardier CS300 aircraft

By BA Staff

Bombardier Aerospace announced that Iraqi Airways, the national carrier of Iraq, has signed a letter of intent (LOI) to acquire five CS300 mainline jetliners. The LOI also includes options on 11 CS300 aircraft.

Based on CS300 airliner list price, a firm order would be valued at approximately $387 million US and could increase to $1.26 billion US if the 11 options are converted to firm orders.

Iraqi Airways operates six CRJ900 NextGen regional jets.

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Air Algérie orders three A330 passenger aircraft

By BA Staff


Air Algérie has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for three A330-200 passenger aircraft as part of the carrier’s continued growth plans. This order has been placed at Dubai Airshow 2013.

The new aircraft will be deployed on medium and long haul routes from the Air Algérie hub in Algeria. Air Algérie has already ordered a total of five Airbus A330, which have all been delivered to date.

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Abu Dhabi aviation signs LOI for two Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft

By BA Staff

Bombardier Aerospace announced that Abu Dhabi Aviation, based in Abu Dhabi, has signed a Letter of Intent for two Q400 NextGen aircraft. The airline is a long time Bombardier Q-Series aircraft customer.

Based on the list price, the potential contract value for Abu Dhabi Aviation’s transaction, covering two Q400 NextGen aircraft, would be approximately $70 million US.

Abu Dhabi Aviation, the largest commercial helicopter operator in the Middle East, operates a fleet that includes one Q400 aircraft, one Dash 8/Q300 aircraft and two Dash 8/Q200 turboprops. The carrier’s main activities relate to the support of offshore oil, engineering and construction companies.

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Air Tahiti receives its first ATR42-600

By BA Staff

Air Tahiti has taken delivery of its first ATR42-600 in a bid to modernize its fleet. The aircraft is part of the firm order for three ordered in August 2010. The airline has also placed an order for four ATR 72-600s). All the aircraft will be shipped over the next three years.

Air Tahiti will introduce the aircraft on the regional routes within French Polynesia and will operate an international connection between Papeete and Rarotonga in the Cook Islands.

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Boeing subsidiary Spectrolab sets new solar cell efficiency world record

By BA Staff

Boeing subsidiary Spectrolab recently set a new world record by producing a solar cell that converted 38.8% of solar energy into electricity, more than any other ground-based solar cell not using concentrated sunlight.

The U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo., verified the new record, which beats Spectrolab’s own previous world record by one per cent.

Spectrolab manufactured the high-efficiency multi-junction solar cell, which was developed from new Boeing semiconductor bonding technology. This solar cell technology could be used to power high-power spacecraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.

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Qatar Airways orders Rolls Royce Trent 700 engines

By BA Staff

Qatar Airways has placed a $300 million order on Rolls-Royce for Trent 700 engines, with long-term TotalCare® support, to power five recently ordered Airbus A330 freighter aircraft.

The Trent 700, the only engine specifically designed for the A330, is the market leader on the aircraft with a 70% of new orders over the last four years. It is also the most popular Rolls-Royce engine type for wide-bodies currently in service, powering more than 530 A330 aircraft with 58 operators. More than 1,400 engines are either in service or on order.

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Video - Boeing updates on 737 MAX

Boeing has put together this nice compact tongue in cheek video update on the 737 MAX. Enjoy the weekend. Comments are welcome as always.

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Jet Airways cancellation of Colombo-Chennai tied to Jetihad?

by BA Staff

Earlier today, it was announced that Indian full service carrier Jet Airways would be cancelling its longstanding daily flights between its Southern hub at Chennai, and Colombo from 3rd January, 2014. The route, which was operated with Boeing 737-800 equipment, had schedules as follow:

9W252 ~ MAA - CMB ~ 0055 – 0210 ~ 738 ~ Daily
9W253 ~ CMB - MAA ~ 0310 – 0430 ~ 738 ~ Daily

Jet Airways will continue to serve Colombo from its largest hub at Mumbai. The move comes as a bit of a surprise, given that the India-Sri Lanka market, especially with regards to inbound medical tourism at Chennai, remains robust. And at a time when Jet continues to incur massive losses on its domestic network, it makes little sense for Jet Airways to cancel a route of roughly domestic length, but with fares 30% higher. There are however, a pair of countervailing factors that could be the reason behind the move. The first is that SriLanka Airlines is planning a major Indian expansion, which could drive down fares and yields. But even more importantly, with the Jetihad partnership recently finalized, Etihad now has the ability to dictate Jet Airways' international route decisions. Is Etihad behind this route cancellation? Let us know in the comments below. 

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Libyan Wings orders three A350 XWBs and four A320neo’s

By BA Staff

Libyan Wings, a newly launched Tripoli based airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for three Airbus A350-900s and four Airbus A320neo’s.

The carrier is building up its fleet with aircraft orders announced at the 2013 Dubai Airshow.

Libyan Wings is expected to start operations for passenger charter and freight from early 2014.

Wisam Al Masri, Chairman of Libyan Wings said:

“The A350 XWB and A320neo will play a significant role in ensuring that our new airline operates one of the most modern and efficient fleets in the Middle East region moving forward. With these fuel-efficient aircraft we will be able to offer passengers the highest levels of comfort on both long haul and shorter regional routes, while benefitting from the lowest operating costs and best environmental performance."

John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers said:

"It’s very exciting to see a new airline starting its business today with our efficient, latest generation A320neo and A350 XWB Families. This means that the Airbus product line, from single aisle to widebody clearly meets customer requirements in the world’s most competitive and demanding markets like the Middle East. Whether for short regional services or long intercontinental routes, Airbus has the right products with the lowest operating costs and best in class comfort standards."

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Etihad Airways orders 115 Rolls Royce Trent engines

By BA Staff

Etihad Airways, has announced an order for 113 Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines to power 50 new Airbus A350 XWB aircraft and two Trent 700 engines for an Airbus A330-200 freighter.

The order, unveiled at the Dubai Air Show 2013, includes 102 engines fitted onto the aircraft, 13 spare engines and long-term TotalCare® support services.

The Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines will be fitted onto 40 A350-900 and 10 A350-1000 aircraft, Deliveries of the Etihad aircraft are scheduled to commence from 2020.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: 

“We have a very successful track-record with Rolls-Royce engines, from the Trent 700 engines on our A330s to the Trent 500 engines on our A340s, and this latest order will further strengthen our relationship. The Airbus A350 XWB will play a fundamental role in the next phase of our international growth strategy and we are confident the Trent XWB engines will deliver exceptional lifecycle fuel-efficiency, maximise revenue potential, minimise disruption and reduce environmental impact.”

With thrust up to 97,000 pounds, the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines are the sole choice, as of now, for the Airbus A350 XWB.

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Ethiopian Airlines authorised as service facility for Q400 turboprops

By BA Staff

Bombardier Aerospace celebrated its growing support network in Africa by agreeing with Ethiopian Airlines of Addis Ababa, as yet another Authorised Service Facility (ASF) for commercial aircraft on the continent.

The airline can now perform line and heavy maintenance on Q400 and Q400 NextGen turboprop aircraft under the Bombardier ASF banner.

Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of modern aircraft, and performs complete aircraft, as well as engine and component overhaul and repair services from facilities at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. The facility employs an all-Ethiopian workforce of over 750 licensed technicians and support staff.

Éric Martel, President, Customer Services and Specialized and Amphibious Aircraft, Bombardier Aerospace said:

“Ethiopian Airlines is one of Africa’s most respected airlines and a valued Bombardier customer. Their commitment to excellence both in operations and maintenance services will benefit our operator base in the region and beyond, as a part of our network. Through sustained investment and focus, we continue to expand our support services in Africa and are looking forward to this new chapter of our relationship with Ethiopian.”

Tewolde Gebremariam, Chief Executive Officer, Ethiopian Airlines said:

“Ethiopian Airlines’ NextGen turboprops are proving their high value by delivering excellent passenger experience, operational flexibility and economics – confirming that they are excellent aircraft for operations in Africa. As a newly appointed Authorized Service Facility for Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft, we welcome the opportunity to expand our relationship with Bombardier, and to provide maintenance services to other carriers as an increasing number of these modern turboprops take to the skies in our geographically diverse continent.” 

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flyDubai orders engines for its 737 MAX order

by BA Staff

flydubai today announced that it has signed an agreement with CFM International to purchase up to 200 LEAP-1B engines to power Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The airline has also ordered 22 CFM56-7BE engines to power up to an additional 11 Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft. The order is not surprising since CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (Safran) and GE Aviation, is the sole engine supplier for the Boeing 737 family of aircraft.

This total includes a 10-year Rate per Flight Hour (RPFH) agreement for the LEAP-1B engine, under the terms of which CFM will guarantee maintenance costs on a dollar per engine flight hour basis. This service is also called "Power by the Hour".

flydubai has been a CFM customer since it launched operations in mid-2009 and currently operates a fleet of 33 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. The airline has outstanding deliveries for CFM56-7B-powered aircraft from its 2008 order; these airplanes will be delivered by 2015.

CFM recently completed ground testing of the first LEAP engine, accumulation of 310 hours and more than 400 cycles with exceptional results. The first full LEAP-1B engine is currently being built in preparation for the launch of ground testing in mid-2014. The engine is scheduled for certification in 2016 and entry into service on the 737 MAX aircraft in 2017.

All of flydubai’s new CFM56-7B engines are the “E” variant, introduced in 2011. The CFM56-7BE-powered Next-Generation 737 enhanced airplane/engine combination is providing a 2% improvement in fuel consumption, which, in turn, equates to a 2% reduction in carbon emissions. Additionally, the enhanced -7BE engine will provide up to 4% lower maintenance costs, depending on the thrust rating.

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Etihad Airways orders CFM LEAP engine for its A321neo

By BA Staff

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, announced that it has selected CFM International’s advanced LEAP-1A engine to power 26 Airbus A321neo scheduled to begin delivery in 2018. The order is valued at $2.8 billion U.S. at list price, including a long-term services agreement.

To support the new fleet, Etihad has signed a 15-year Rate per Flight Hour (RPFH) agreement, under the terms of which CFM will guarantee maintenance costs on a dollar per engine flight hour basis.

James Hogan, president and chief executive officer of Etihad Airways said:

“Etihad Airways prides itself on operating modern, state-of-the-art and highly efficient aircraft, with the Airbus A320 family at the heart of our narrow-body fleet. Through the introduction of the brand new Airbus A320neo family aircraft, we will benefit from even lower fuel consumption and environmental impact on short-haul and medium-haul flights. Much of these operational improvements will derive from the advanced LEAP-1A engine, which has been meeting all performance targets.”

Jean-Paul Ebanga, president and CEO of CFM International said:

"We are happy to welcome Etihad as a CFM customer. In just 10 years, this airline has built a reputation for excellence in every facet of its business, and we are honored to become part of this team"

Gaël Meheust, vice president of sales for CFM International said:

“We are obviously excited that Etihad chose to power its new A320neo fleet with the LEAP engine. We think this engine is going to be the best we’ve ever built and Etihad will realize the benefits from day one – lower fuel burn, lower noise and emissions, all with CFM’s legendary reliability and low cost of ownership."

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Bombardier and Air Côte d’Ivoire sign agreement for up to four Q400 NextGen aircraft

By BA Staff

Bombardier Aerospace announced that Abidjan-based Air Côte d’Ivoire, the national airline of the Invory Coast, has signed a conditional purchase agreement for two Q400 NextGen aircraft with options for an additional two Q400 NextGen aircraft.

Based on list price, the contract value for two firm-ordered Q400 NextGen aircraft would be approximately $69 million US. Should the two options be converted to firm orders, the contract value would increase to $141 million US.

René Decurey, Chief Executive Officer, Air Côte d’Ivoire said:

“The dual-class-configured Q400 NextGen aircraft is ideally suited for our market; it will support passengers’ requirements and integrate well into our fleet. We will capitalize on the Q400 NextGen aircraft’s outstanding performance -- including its high speed and long-range cruise capability – as we look to modernize our fleet and expand our domestic and regional route network. Additionally, in West Africa, where average fuel prices are among the highest in the world and the highest on the continent, the fast, fuel-efficient Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner is the most cost effective and flexible regional aircraft solution for our operations.”

Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft said:

“We are proud that Bombardier is contributing to the growth strategy of Air Côte d’Ivoire, and that the carrier could potentially double the size of its current fleet with Q400 NextGen aircraft as it further develops its network of short- and medium-haul destinations. The Q400 NextGen aircraft is performing superbly in diverse environments around the world with some 50 customers and operators, and we are delighted to welcome Air Côte d’Ivoire to our family. Bombardier Commercial Aircraft continues to perform well in Africa, where we have captured 100 per cent market share over more than two years in the large turboprop segment."

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Palma Holdings signs LOI for up to eight new Bombardier Q400 NextGen turboprops

By BA Staff

Bombardier Aerospace announced that Palma Holding Limited (Palma) has signed a letter of intent to acquire up to eight dual-class Q400 NextGen aircraft. The agreement would cover four firm-ordered aircraft and four options. Palma intends to lease four aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines.

Based on the list price, the potential contract value for Palma's transaction covering four Q400 NextGen aircraft and four options would be approximately $282 million US.

Moulay Omar Alaoui, President, Palma Holding Ltd said:

"We are very pleased to become the first Middle Eastern lessor for Bombardier's Q400 NextGen aircraft, and the first lessor worldwide for the aircraft's dual-class configuration. We are working to conclude lease structures with interested airlines including existing Q400 NextGen aircraft operator Ethiopian Airlines. We have already concluded commitments with Ethiopian Airlines that will provide the carrier with additional development opportunities."

Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft said:

"Our customers' success with their Q400 NextGen aircraft in the Middle East and Africa is testament to the aircraft's unique ability to serve the diverse and challenging environment in the region. In addition, the Q400 NextGen aircraft's comfortable, quiet cabin provides an excellent experience for passengers; and the dual-class option allows flexible integration into carrier's network operations by providing seamless business class service to passengers,"

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet that includes 13 Q400s.

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Qatar Airways Cargo order five new Airbus A330-200F freighters

By BA Staff

Qatar Airways A330-200F. Image courtesy Airbus S.A.S.

Qatar Airways has placed a firm order for five new Airbus A330-200 Freighter aircraft in an agreement signed at the Dubai Airshow 2013.

These new aircraft will complement the airline's rapidly growing network, which includes more than 40 routes that have dedicated freighter services.

Included in the order are eight additional A330-200F options – which would make the deal potentially worth over $2.8bn at list prices for a total of 13 aircraft.

Qatar Airways Cargo already operates three A330-200Fs since earlier this year.

Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways CEO said:

“The A330 Family has demonstrated outstanding operational reliability and performance for both our passenger and cargo transport operations. It is with this in mind that we chose to expand our freighter fleets with more A330-200Fs. We aim to be the best in everything we do, the air cargo market is no different, which is why we ordered the most modern and economic cargo aircraft available in its category.”

Airbus President and CEO, Fabrice Brégier said:

“Qatar Airways is one of our key partners in the region, and its selection of the A330-200F illuminates its ambitious plans as the airline expands and invests in new freighter aircraft. The A330-200F, with up to 70 metric tonnes of payload, is the only viable alternative to large freighters in today’s fast changing market, making it an ideal choice for a constantly evolving carrier.”

Qatar Airways received its first Airbus aircraft in 1997. Today Airbus aircraft form an ever more essential cornerstone of Qatar Airways’ global operations with more than 200 aircraft directly ordered across all modern Airbus product families, from the single-aisle A320 all the way up to the flagship A380.

Aimed at replacing ageing mid-sized freighters, the A330-200F offers an alternative to larger freighters within fleets. It builds on the successful A330 twin-jet platform and can carry 70 tonnes of payload, with a range capability of up to 4,000nm.

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Latin American airlines need over 2,300 new aircraft in next 20 years

By BA Staff

Image courtesy Airbus S.A.S.

According to Airbus’ latest Global Market Forecast (GMF), Latin American airlines will require 2,307 new aircrafts between 2013 and 2032, including 1,794 single-aisle, 475 twin-aisle and 38 very large aircraft (VLA) worth an estimated US$292 billion. Globally, by 2032 some 29,230 new passenger and freighter aircraft valued at nearly US$4.4 trillion will be required to satisfy future robust market demand.

With GDP currently growing above the world average (3.6 percent per year over the last two years, versus 2.6 percent for the world) socio-economic indicators forecast that Latin America’s middle class will grow to represent more than half of the population by 2032. Between 2012 and 2020, Latin America’s economy is expected to outperform the world average, largely thanks to Mexico and Brazil’s consumer spending. As a result, traffic growth in Latin America in the next 20 years is expected to outperform the world average of 4.7 percent with an annual growth rate of 5.2 percent.

A growing middle class and increased consumer spending have led to air transport becoming more accessible throughout Latin America in the past 10 years, increasing 14 percent in terms of total number of cities served. Still, while almost 100 percent of the 20 largest cities in North America and Europe connect passengers with at least one flight per day, only 40 percent of Latin America’s top 20 cities do the same. As a result, in the next 20 years, intra-regional and domestic traffic is expected to grow at an impressive rate of 6.3 percent, becoming the biggest market for Latin American carriers.

This untapped intra-regional potential partly explains why Airbus forecasts that in the next 20 years two-thirds of the population in emerging markets will take a trip a year, positioning Latin American airlines to enjoy the second highest traffic growth rates worldwide, after Middle Eastern airlines.

While 10 of the 92 worldwide aviation mega-cities with over 10,000 international passengers a day will be in Latin America by 2032, additional opportunities exist for Latin American airlines to capitalize on. Currently, Latin America’s six largest carriers have 19 percent market share of the region’s long-haul traffic, while regions like North America and Europe enjoy nearly 40 percent.

Rafael Alonso, Executive Vice President of Airbus for Latin America and the Caribbean said:

“Very large aircraft, such as the A380, not only help alleviate traffic congestion at busy airports, but they can assist Latin American airlines to compete with their foreign competitors. At the same time the A380 addresses international air traffic requirements needed to serve long-haul flights to Europe.”

Another prevalent trend in Latin America is the rise of low cost carriers (LCC), which accounts for nearly 40 percent of the market share of total air traffic in the region, up from just 12 percent in 2003, with Mexico and Brazil representing nearly the entire market. A highly competitive LCC market has led airlines to constantly seek the most efficient aircraft available, largely driving the average age of Latin America’s in-service fleet to 9.5 years, down 42 percent since 2000, as compared to the world average age of 10.7 years.

While many Latin American airlines have gone through great efforts to maintain a young and highly-efficient fleet, the average aircraft age in Latin America could decrease further when Caribbean carriers start their renewal process.

Alonso said:

“Aircraft in the Caribbean average about 17 years of age - - that’s more than seven years older than the Latin America and world average. We’ve already started seeing some airlines in the Caribbean take advantage of current market opportunities and achieve greater operational benefits associated to newer generation aircraft. As more follow, the average aircraft age in the region will continue to drop.”

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Jetihad is born. Jet Airways completes 24% stake sale to Etihad Airways

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways and Mumbai-based Jet Airways today announced that they have closed the transaction of a 24% equity stake by Etihad Airways in Jet Airways.

Jet Airways' Boeing 777-300ER

In a release they said

"All requisite Indian regulatory approvals had been obtained by November 12th, 2013. Jet Airways has, on November 20th, 2013, issued and allotted 27,263,372 equity shares of a face value of Rs. 10 each at a price of Rs. 754.7361607 per equity share on a preferential basis to Etihad Airways.

Consequent to the above allotment, the paid up share capital of Jet Airways stands increased to 11,35,97,383 equity shares of Rs. 10 each. Following this issue and allotment of the said equity shares on a preferential basis to Etihad Airways, Etihad Airways holds 24 per cent of the post issue paid up share capital of Jet Airways (on a fully diluted basis)."

Mr. James Hogan, CEO, and Mr. James Rigney, CFO of Etihad Airways have been appointed as additional directors on the board of directors of Jet Airways as from November 20th, 2013.

Mr. Goyal and Mr. Hogan confirmed that the collaboration between the airlines would commence immediately with a view to delivering network and service benefits to customers as soon as possible.

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Lufthansa places CFM56-5B engine order for Airbus A320ceo

By BA Staff

Lufthansa A320 with Sharklets. Image courtesy Airbus S.A.S.

Deutsche Lufthansa has selected CFM International’s CFM56-5B engine to power 30 firm Airbus A320ceo (current engine option) aircraft. The agreement is valued at more than $610 million U.S. at list price. The aircraft order was announced in June of this year.

Nico Buchholz, executive vice president, Fleet Management for Lufthansa Group said:

"Our choice of the CFM56-5B engine is a true continuation of our long-running relationship with CFM. We know from experience that the CFM56-B offers a world-class combination of economic efficiency, reliability, and time on wing. We pleased to introduce more of these engines into our fleet."

Lufthansa, which is part of the Lufthansa Aviation Group, currently operates a fleet 350 CFM56 engines powering Airbus A319/A320, long-range, four-engine A340-300, and Boeing 737 Classic aircraft. Overall, Lufthansa Aviation Group, which includes Germanwings, Austrian, and Swiss, operates more than 560 CFM56 engines.

Jean-Paul Ebanga, president and CEO of CFM said:

“This is a fantastic vote of confidence for the entire CFM Team. Lufthansa is a long-time CFM customer and we are proud to continue this long relationship with them.”

Kevin McAllister vice president of sales for CFM parent company GE Aviation said:

“Lufthansa again chose the CFM56-5B after a very detailed technical evaluation. It is highly gratifying when an airline noted for its technical expertise recognizes the exceptional value that our product will bring to their fleet.”

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AirAsia X to commence flights to Nagoya

By BA Staff

AirAsia X Berhad, the long haul affiliate of the AirAsia Group, announced the launch of its third destination in Japan; Nagoya.

AirAsia X will commence its first flight into Chubu Centrair International Airport from Kuala Lumpur beginning 17 March, 2014.

AirAsia X will commence four weekly flights into Nagoya, Japan. The airline currently operates daily flights to Tokyo (Haneda) and four weekly flights to Osaka (Kansai) from Kuala Lumpur.

Azran Osman-Rani, CEO of AirAsia X said:

"We are excited to announce our latest route to Nagoya, marking our 3rd destination into Japan. This marks another milestone for AirAsia X and reiterates our expansion commitment in the key markets we operate in with the Asia Pacific Region. With the addition of Nagoya, guests will have more travel options to explore Japan, and we believe Nagoya being a scenic and historical destination will be a popular tourist destination. We have carried over half a million passengers to and from Japan. Japan contributed over 14% of our total revenue in the first half of 2013. Nagoya is strategically located just 50 minutes from Osaka and 1 hour 40 minutes from Tokyo via train. Guests may soon fly direct to Nagoya, and take a train to the metropolitan and capital city of Japan; Tokyo or visit the commercial centre of Japan, Osaka in the Kansai region and return from any of the ports we serve in Japan. Nagoya has much to offer, be it for families or even the back packers, the choices of attractions are endless.”

 He concluded:

“Japanese guest also will be able to fly to a host of destinations from Kuala Lumpur using AirAsia’s Fly-Thru service, which allows guests to easily connect between two different flights via the Kuala Lumpur Low Cost Carrier Terminal without having to worry about checking in twice.”

Fly-Thru routes available from Nagoya are: Adelaide, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney in Australia; Kochi in India; Bali, Bandung, Jakarta, Medan and Surabaya in Indonesia; Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi andPenang in Malaysia; Singapore; Taipei in Taiwan; Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand; and Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam.

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Boeing selects Bombardier business jet for maritime surveillance aircraft program

By BA Staff

Boeing has selected Bombardier's Challenger 605 business jet as the platform for its Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) program.

Tim Peters, Boeing vice president and general manager, Mobility, Surveillance and Engagement, said at the Dubai Airshow:

"The Challenger 605 is an ideal platform to host MSA's mission system, sensors and communications equipment. It also provides the power, payload capacity, range, speed and endurance that our customers tell us they need for missions such as anti-piracy; coastal and border security; and long-range search and rescue."

Boeing team-mate Field Aviation will modify the Challenger 605's structure and air vehicle systems into the MSA configuration.

Peters said:

"Field Aviation has extensive experience engineering and modifying the Challenger family of aircraft for a variety of missions, including maritime surveillance."

Field Aviation is currently modifying a Boeing-owned Challenger 604 jet into an MSA demonstrator aircraft that will complete ground and flight testing of the mission systems and be presented to potential customers in 2014.

MSA incorporates technologies developed for the P-8A Poseidon, the U.S. Navy’s newest anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance system based on the Boeing Next-Generation 737 commercial airplane.  

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Boeing, flydubai announce historic single-aisle agreement

By BA Staff

Boeing and flydubai announced a commitment for up to 100 737 MAX 8 airplanes and 11 Next-Generation 737-800s at the Dubai Airshow.

The commitment from the airline of the emirate of Dubai, valued at $11.4 billion at list prices (including orders and purchase rights), is the largest ever Boeing single-aisle airplane purchase in the Middle East. flydubai operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai said:

"flydubai is pleased to continue its partnership with Boeing. We believe that the commitment for up to 111 Boeing 737 aircraft will give flydubai one of the best performing aircraft available in the single-aisle market. This will ensure that flydubai is well positioned to continue to set new standards in aviation and support the further economic development of the United Arab Emirates."

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner said:

"We are extremely proud of the confidence that flydubai continues to place in our products operating an all-Boeing fleet. We look forward to continue strengthening our partnership and seeing the Next-Generation 737-800 and subsequently the 737 MAX play a central role in flydubai's rapid expansion plans."

flydubai placed its first order for 50 Next-Generation 737-800s in 2008. The airline took delivery of its first airplane in 2009 and was the first airline in the world to debut the Boeing Sky Interior. To date, flydubai has taken delivery of 33 Next-Generation 737-800s. In the past two years, flydubai has more than doubled the number of destinations it flies to and has around 1,200 weekly flights. flydubai carried 5.1 million passengers in 2012 and has become the second largest carrier, by passenger numbers, operating out of Dubai International, after big brother and fellow group company Emirates airline.

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Jet Airways and Garuda Indonesia sign code share agreement

Jet Airways and national flag carrier Garuda Indonesia have concluded a code share agreement for connectivity between India and Indonesia.

Under the arrangement, using Singapore as a hub, Jet Airways will place its marketing code on Garuda Indonesia’s flights between Singapore and Jakarta and Garuda will place its marketing code on Jet Airways’ flights between Singapore and Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.

The two airlines have also signed a frequent flyer partnership, allowing members of each others loyalty programs to accrue and redeem mileage on the code-share flights, the entire domestic network of Garuda Indonesia, and on Jet Airways' complete network, domestic and international.

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Emirates to implement Airbus Managed Inventory (AMI) Service

Emirates Airline has signed an agreement to implement a structured trial of the Airbus Managed Inventory (AMI) service which is expected to lead to a wider implementation thereafter.
The AMI service, continuously ensures the automatic replenishment of high-usage and non-repairable parts at the customer’s facilities.

The AMI automated inventory management solution supports Airbus customers to reduce their inventory holding costs. By capturing material consumption information in real-time and automatically triggering replenishment orders within the agreed inventory levels, the service guarantees high on-shelf part availability while decreasing the overall inventory stock level.

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Jet Airways offers special airfare discount for Rotary South Asia Literacy Summit in New Delhi

by Devesh Agarwal

Jet Airways is offering a special discount on domestic airfares to attendees of the Rotary South Asia Literacy Summit to be held in New Delhi on December 14 and 15. The airline will extend a 5% discount on the base fare and fuel surcharge.

Use the discount code "JETRSA2013" when making the booking on the Jet Airways website.

Other terms of the offer :

• Sale Validity from 12 Nov 13 to 15 Dec 13
• Travel Validity 1 Dec 13 to 20 Dec 13
• Valid on all Jet Airways / JetKonnect domestic flights within India
• Valid on all classes

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IndiGo adds Bagdogra as a destination. New Ahmedabad Mumbai Guwahati flight.

by Devesh Agarwal

India's largest domestic airline is adding Bagdogra as its 30th domestic destination from December 1, 2013.

With its 71st A320 joining the fleet, IndiGo will operate 448 daily flights to 30 domestic and five international destinations.

Flight 6E-434 commences an almost 12 hour duty cycle at 05:45 starting at Ahmedabad to Mumbai to Guwahati to Bagdogra to Kolkata to Bangalore. In reverse flight 6E-433 starts at 11:05 in Bangalore and ends at 23:20 at Ahmedabad.

Thus, the new schedule sees introduction of new daily non-stop flights to Bagdogra from Guwahati and Kolkata. Bagdogra will also be connected to Mumbai via Guwahati, and to Bangalore via Kolkata.

IndiGo will also launch a seventh daily non-stop flight between Delhi and Kolkata and also a daily non-stop flight between Mumbai and Guwahati, offering a same plane one-stop service from Ahmedabad to Guwahati. It is not clear if a passenger can take a two-stop same plane service from Ahmedabad to Bagdogra.

Aditya Ghosh, President, IndiGo said,

“We are extremely pleased about adding Bagdogra as our 35th destination of operations as it is a landmark moment for us. Bagdogra is going to be an important part of our destination network because it holds good prospect for commercial business apart from the region of Darjeeling, Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. We are committed to providing maximum connectivity from Bagdogra on our network by catering to various segments and we are confident that these additional services will prove immensely popular with our passengers. We are planning to increase the connectivity to and from Bagdogra and expand our operations with additional flights. It is our constant endeavour to provide more flexibility of choice for our customers as IndiGo continues to offer them on time, hassle free and always affordable flying experience.”

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Boeing and GOL Airlines to collaborate on aviation biofuels in Brazil

By BA Staff

Boeing and Brazil's GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. will work together to speed the research, development and approval of new sources of sustainable aviation biofuel in Brazil. Their collaboration will support GOL's plans to use this lower-carbon jet fuel on more flights during upcoming major sporting events and also will benefit long-term development of a new sustainable aviation biofuel industry in Brazil.

Paulo Sergio Kakinoff, chief executive officer of GOL, and Van Rex Gallard, vice president of Sales for Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, signed a memorandum of understanding for biofuel collaboration at the Latin America and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) Airline Leaders Forum 2013.

Paulo Kakinoff, chief executive officer for GOL said:

"Because of its continuous improvements in technology that result in ever-lower fuel consumption, the Boeing Next Generation 737 is the only airplane that GOL flies. Boeing's focus on fuel efficiency helps us all operate in a more sustainable fashion, and the expansion of our partnership with this new project will further advance the effort to expand biofuel use in Brazil. It also will serve as an example to the world of what is possible today and in years to come. Boeing is very pleased to work with GOL on this key project to advance the use and availability of biofuels. As Brazil's leading low-cost carrier, GOL is showing great leadership in its efforts to conduct lower-carbon flights."

GOL plans to use biojetfuel on 200 flights during the major sporting event in Brazil in 2014 and to incorporate biofuel into 20 percent of its flights during the Olympics taking place in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

On Oct. 23, Brazil's Aviator's Day, GOL conducted Brazil's first commercial biofuel flight in a Boeing 737-800 powered in part by sustainable aviation biofuel made from waste cooking oil and blended by Petrobras, with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Following the flight, aviation industry stakeholders including GOL and Boeing, as well as Brazilian officials and research institutions, announced a national effort called the Brazilian Biojetfuel Platform to establish a sustainable biojetfuel industry with research and development in several regions of the country. If the Platform is successful, Brazil, which has already established a biofuel industry could be the first nation to establish a sustainable aviation biofuel industry from biomass production to flight.

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Airbus corporate foundation coordinates relief aid to the Philippines

By BA Staff

An Airbus A340-300 test flight aircraft left Lyon, France at 7:45 Nov. 15, for Cebu, Philippines with 28 logistics and emergency rescue specialists on board plus nearly 30 tonnes of water purification equipment and energy biscuits, destined for the victims of the Haiyan typhoon in the Philippines. This relief mission has been jointly organised with Action Contre la Faim (ACF). The aircraft is scheduled to arrive on Saturday morning at 7 a.m. locally.

In addition a delivery-flight of an all new A321 to Philippine Airlines is being used to send a medical team of 10 doctors and nurses as well as 11 tonnes of medical equipment and food to Tacloban via Manila, Philippines. This help has been facilitated together with the Foundation partners Philippine Airlines, Humedica e.V. and Kühne & Nagel. The flight will leave the Airbus site in Hamburg, Germany, this Friday evening and is expected to arrive at Manila Capital airport on Sunday 8:30 p.m. local time. The medical personnel and goods will then be transported by an onward flight to Tacloban.

Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO and Chairman of the Airbus Foundation said:

"The Philippines have been struck by a true human disaster and it is natural, that we look at all possibilities about how we can contribute in facilitating relief in this tragic situation quickly and efficiently. It fills me with gratitude and pride to see our teams being engaged so strongly with our Foundation Partners to work towards this common objective, and I wish to thank everybody involved."

Jean-Baptiste Lamarche, Logistics Director ACF, stated:

"This partnership is very valuable to ACF. As one of our privileged logistics partners, Airbus helps us to intervene rapidly and efficiently during emergency situations, like after the natural disasters in Haiti in 2010, and recently in the Philippines. This logistical support allows us fulfill our mission, which consists in saving lives and helping the most vulnerable."                                                                                                                           

Wolfgang Gross, Managing Director of Humedica e.V. said:

"We are very grateful for this opportunity to quickly bring further aid to Tacloban. By now we have twelve medical specialists in Tacloban who are working non-stop and urgently need further support and medical goods.”

The Airbus Corporate Foundation has completed 34 relief or goodwill flights to destinations around the globe to date and has built up a global network of airlines and relief organisations to support international humanitarian causes.

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Aviation Week honors Boeing programs for excellence

By BA Staff

The Boeing P-8A Poseidon program and F-15 logistics program were recognized for their success at Aviation Week & Space Technology's Program Excellence award ceremony held Nov. 14 in Phoenix.

The P-8A maritime surveillance aircraft program won the System Level Production category, while the F-15 fighter jet Radar Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) program was a finalist in the Sub-System Sustainment category.

Aviation Week's awards recognize management, leadership, best practices, benchmarking and other factors that make aerospace and defense programs successful.

Jean Chamberlin, vice president of Boeing Defense, Space & Security Program Management and a member of the Aviation Week Program Excellence evaluation team said:

"These nominees represent the 'best in class' when it comes to exceptional leadership and program performance, particularly when we reflect upon how far we have come since the first awards in 2005. I am proud of the improvement these programs demonstrated in customer and supply chain integration and collaboration. It is an honor to be recognized by our industry and government partners."

The U.S. Navy has called P-8A the most successful major Department of Defense acquisition program in the past 30 years. The program exceeds requirements and has achieved every major milestone to date.

Rick Heerdt, Boeing vice president and P-8 program manager said:

"We're lucky to have a great partner – the U.S. Navy – on the P-8A program, and the entire industry team deserves credit for this award,"

The F-15 Radar CLS PBL program with the U.S. Air Force provides total system support to the Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar weapon system. The AESA system gives warfighters the capability to simultaneously detect, track, and engage multiple targets.

Kevin Pennington, F-15 Radar CLS program manager said:

"The PBL approach allows Boeing the ability to optimize radar system availability and performance. Ensuring radar availability provides greater situational awareness and decreased workload with increased survivability." 

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Etihad orders 87 Airbus aircraft

by Devesh Agarwal

Etihad Airways, of the United Arab Emirates, has announced a firm order on European airframer Airbus S.A.S. for 50 A350 XWBs, 36 A320neo aircraft and one A330-200F freighter worth $26.9 billion at list prices.

The contract was signed yesterday at the 2013 Dubai Airshow by James Hogan, Etihad Airways CEO and Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO.

The Airbus A350 XWB order will be equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and deliveries will commence in 2020. The 26 A321neo and 10 A320neo aircraft are scheduled for delivery from 2018, while the A330-200F will arrive in 2017. The neos will be powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines.

Etihad currently operates a fleet of 23 A320 Family aircraft, 25 A330s and 11 A340s.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways,

“Ten years ago this month, we celebrated our inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi using an Airbus A330. A decade later, we have grown into one of the world’s leading airlines and the importance of Airbus to our fast-growing operations has never been stronger. We have more than 60 Airbus aircraft in our fleet today, and this latest order is testament to the continued strength of our partnership. As one of the first airlines set to receive the much-awaited Airbus A350-1000, we look forward to benefiting from its operational efficiencies and cost savings.”

The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) is an all-new "mini jumbo" long range product line comprising three versions, the A350-800, A350-900, A350-1000. In a typical two-class configuration, the A350-900 can seat 315 passengers and the A350-1000 seats 369 passengers. The aircraft will offer the range for Etihad to expand its network around the world. On the same day as it ordered the A350, Etihad also ordered its biggest competition the Boeing 777-9X and 777-8X which can seat 400+ and 350 passengers respectively.

In comparison to the Boeing aircraft, which Etihad is expected to fit with 17 inch width economy class seats, the A350 fuselage cross-section is optimized to accommodate Airbus’ 18-inch economy seat-width for long range passenger comfort. Etihad's new order is expected to commence delivery in 2020, the same time as the Boeing 777-9X.

The A320neo is offered as an option for the A320 Family and incorporates new more efficient engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. At the end of October 2013, firm orders for the NEO stood at 2,487 from 44 customers, making it the fastest selling commercial airliner ever.

The A330-200F is the freighter version of the A330. It can carry 70 tonnes of payload with a range capability of up to 4,000nm.

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Boeing launches 777X program - images and video

by Devesh Agarwal

Boeing 777-9X. Boeing image.

The Dubai Airshow is known for releasing multi-billion dollar orders from the major Gulf carriers, and yesterday was no exception.

Boeing was the clear winner on day one of the show, and the star was the yet to be commenced Boeing 777X program which is an upgrade of the already ultra-popular Boeing 777 twin engine wide body jetliner which today commands 71% of the in-service fleet worldwide.

Video at the end of the story

Despite receiving a order for 34 777-9X from German carrier Lufthansa two months ago, Boeing formally launched the 777X program at the 2013 Dubai Airshow, in deference to its largest 777 customer, Dubai-based Emirates airline, whose CEO, Tim Clark, has been the biggest demander of the new aircraft. (Watch a video of Tim Clark talking about wide body aircraft including the 777X).

Reflecting customer faith in the yet to be developed aircraft, Boeing took in orders and commitments for a whopping 225 aircraft, racking up its tally to 259, making the 777X, the largest product launch in commercial jetliner history by value.

Boeing image

Boeing received orders and commitments from Etihad Airways with 25 77X aircraft (17 777-9X and 8 777-8X), Qatar Airways with 50 777-9X; and Emirates with 150 777X (115 777-9X and 35 777-8X), with an option for 50 more. The combined value of the agreements is more than $95 billion at list prices.

The consistent large orders from the Gulf majors is not unexpected. As Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates, explained

"In recent years, much of the action in global aviation has shifted to the Middle East because countries like the U.A.E. and Qatar have tapped into our geographical advantage to build new air transport connections for the world,"

The 777X will build on the market leading 777 and will introduce new technologies in multiple places. A new composite wing similar to the 787 Dreamliner and 747-8 Jumbo will feature folding raked wingtips, allowing the new plane to fit into existing gates at airports. The new GE9X is touted as the most advanced commercial engine ever. Giving airlines what they desire most, lower seat-mile costs.

Mini-jumbo battle

Boeing 777-9X and 777-8X CGI. Boeing image.

The existing 777-300ER (77W) will be upgraded to the 777-9X with a list price of $377.2 million, an expected entry in to service (EIS) date of 2020, range of 8,200 nm (15,185 km), and passenger capacity of 406. The 777-200LR will be upgraded to the ultra-long-haul (ULH) 777-8X with a list price of $349.8 million, an EIS about 18 months after the -9X, range of 9,300 nm (17,220 km), and passenger capacity of 350 which is close to that of the existing 777-300ER.

The "mini-jumbo" segment is hotly contested, pitting the 777X against the A350 XWB from European major, Airbus.

While Boeing claims "the 777-8X competes directly with the A350-1000, while the 777-9X is in a class by itself", Airbus counters saying Boeing has driven up passenger numbers to justify operating economics using the ultra-dense 17 inch width seating, as practised by Emirates and Etihad, when compared to the wider 18 inch seat width used by Airbus to arrive at its 350 seat A350-1000, which is due to enter service in 2017.

Video of 777X

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In new strategy Etihad invests in Darwin Airlines, re-brands it Etihad Regional

by Devesh Agarwal

Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, today announced what it calls a ‘step-change in global aviation’ with the launch of its first branded regional operation, after taking a 33.3 per cent stake in Swiss carrier Darwin Airline.

(Left to right) James Rigney, Etihad Airways’ Chief Financial Officer; Maurizio Merlo, Chief Executive Officer of Darwin Airline; James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer; Emilio Martinenghi, President of Darwin Airline, celebrate the launch of Etihad Regional at the Dubai Air Show 2013.

Following completion of the minority investment, which is subject to regulatory approval, Darwin Airline will rebrand its operations as Etihad Regional and align its network to connect passengers from secondary European markets onto the main networks of Etihad Airways and its equity alliance partners in Europe, airberlin and Air Serbia.

Part of the strategy will see Etihad Airways launching daily services on June 1, 2014 from Abu Dhabi to Zurich, which will become one of Darwin Airline’s main operating hubs. The flight will depart Abu Dhabi at 2am and arrive early morning in to Zurich, enabling connections on to Regional's flights.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said

“This is a step-change for Etihad Airways. With our new partner Darwin Airline, we are creating a unique approach to network development for global airlines. European travellers will now be able to connect from a far, far wider range of European towns and cities on Etihad-branded aircraft, through Abu Dhabi to our destinations worldwide. We are also linking the new Etihad Regional network into the key hubs of our equity alliance partners, bringing benefits to the customers of airberlin and Air Serbia. This is not just a great new offer for European travellers. It is also great news for Darwin Airline, which will see increased investment, greater sales and marketing opportunities, and the chance to benefit from Etihad Airways’ global network.”

Darwin Airlines Saab 2000 in current livery. Photo Devesh Agarwal

Darwin Airline is headquartered in Lugano, Switzerland, with its major hub in Geneva, to which Etihad already operates flights. Darwin currently offers scheduled flights to 21 destinations in Europe using a fleet of 10 50-seat Saab 2000 turboprop aircraft. Its flights operate under the IATA designator code 0D, which will continue past the re-branding.

After the 33% stake investment by Etihad, Darwin Airline will become he seventh member of the Etihad Airways equity airline alliance. Etihad Airways has minority shareholdings of 29% in airberlin, 40% in Air Seychelles, 19.9% in Virgin Australia and 3% in Aer Lingus. Etihad has received approval to acquire 24 per cent of India’s Jet Airways, and from January 2014, will acquire 49 per cent of Air Serbia.

Darwin, will continue to focus on secondary markets, and become the first airline to operate using a new sub-brand called ‘Etihad Regional’. Darwin Airline will also adopt the Etihad Guest frequent flier program.

The investment will give Etihad Airways access to regional markets in Europe, and enable a major expansion of Darwin Airline’s operations.

Darwin Airlines Saab 2000 in new Etihad Regional livery. CGI.

Darwin's fleet will be re-painted in the new ‘Etihad Regional’ livery which sees the logo displayed prominently on each side of the fuselage of the aircraft, while the rear of the plane will carry the words “Operated by Darwin Airline”, and the Darwin Airline’s present logo. The Swiss flag will be displayed on the dorsal tail fin, though the E of the Etihad logo will take prominence on the tail.

By mid-2014, Darwin Airline will add 21 new routes and 18 new destinations. Its network will then include six European gateways served by Etihad Airways – Geneva, Amsterdam, Paris, Düsseldorf, Belgrade and, commencing in June, Zurich.

Darwin Airline will be able to connect to the network of airberlin, Etihad Airways’ equity partner, through new and existing routes to Berlin, Düsseldorf and Zurich. Berlin and Düsseldorf provide excellent connections to the United States with airberlin.

Darwin Airline will also be able to connect to the network of Air Serbia, through its hub at Belgrade.
Subject to regulatory approval, Etihad Airways, airberlin and Air Serbia will codeshare on Darwin Airline routes, while Darwin Airline will codeshare on Etihad Airways, airberlin and Air Serbia flights from a range of European gateways. This will provide deeper access to Europe for the three larger carriers and significant new international connectivity and feeder traffic for Darwin Airline.

Maurizio Merlo, Chief Executive Officer of Darwin Airline, believes the Etihad Airways partnership will enable Darwin Airline to build upon its success to date and enjoy significant growth, not only by providing a larger network for customers within Europe but also greater access to Europe for travellers from around the world.

Darwin Airline’s expanded network, to be implemented in stages from April 2014, will provide significant new opportunities for travellers to fly between major regional centres in Europe and the global network of Etihad Airways, via its hub in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE.

• In April 2014, Darwin Airline will launch nine new routes, from Dusseldorf to Berlin, Cambridge and London City; from Berlin to Poznan and Wroclaw; from Geneva to Toulouse; from Zurich to Leipzig; and from Rome to Tirana and Zagreb.
• In May 2014, it will start flights from from Zurich to Geneva, Florence and Turin; and from Geneva to Belgrade.
• In June 2014, it will launch flights from Zurich to Linz, Graz, Verona and Lyon; and from Geneva to Bordeaux, Marseille, Nantes and Verona.

What are your thoughts on this new strategy by Etihad? Post a comment.

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Pegasus Airlines seals $4.3 billion engine deal with CFM

By BA Staff

Pegasus Airlines has finalized its order for CFM International’s advanced LEAP-1A engine to power its 100 Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft on order.

The agreement is valued at approximately $4.3 billion U.S. at list price, including a long-term service agreement.

Under the terms of the 20-year Rate per Flight Hour (RPFH) maintenance agreement, CFM will guarantee maintenance costs on a dollar per engine flight hour basis.

The engine selection was announced in July 2013 and the airline is schedule to begin taking delivery of its new aircraft in 2016.

The Istanbul-based low cost airline has been a CFM customer since it began operations in 1990. The airline operates a fleet of 45 CFM-powered Boeing 737 aircraft on scheduled routes to 76 domestic and international destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Central Asia, Caucasus, the Middle East, and Africa.

Sertaç Haybat CEO of Pegasus Airlines said:

“We are pleased to have selected CFM to provide LEAP engines for our new Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft until 2022, in addition to the 20-year maintenance agreement. This will enable us to keep what is arguably the most significant cost for airlines — engine maintenance costs— in check by making these costs more predictable. With this order, we have now increased our total Airbus fleet investment to $16.3 billion U.S. — $12 billion for 100 new aircraft and $4.3 billion for the engines and long-term service agreement. Based on the delivery schedule for the fleet, our partnership with CFM will continue at least until the year 2042. Together, we are witnessing the signing ceremony for a collaboration that is set to last for another 30 years.”

Pierre Fabre, president & CEO of CFM parent company Snecma (Safran) said:

“This agreement marks an important milestone in our already 20-year relationship with Pegasus. Beyond the quality of the LEAP product comes our unwavering commitment to keep our promises and deliver the kind of performance, reliability, and operating economics Pegasus has come to rely on from CFM.”

The first LEAP-1A engine to test started for the first time on September 4, 2013, two days ahead of the schedule set in early 2010. The engine logged more than 300 hours and 400 cycles before coming off the test stand. The next major event is the icing tests that will take place in 2014. CFM is performing the test early, more than one year ahead of the engine certification timeline, to ensure that any potential issues are identified well in advance.

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Dubai Airshow 2013 starts with record breaking orders

As expected the Dubai Airshow opened today with a record breaking order book.

Within three hours of opening, the show’s order tally reached US $162.6 billion – surpassing its previous record of US $155 billion record set in 2007 – with deals coming from Etihad Airways, Emirates Airline, flydubai and Qatar Airways.

The opening order came from Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways which announced a deal for 56 new Boeing 777s valued at US$25.2 billion at list prices, including related GE engines. The deal also sees Etihad become the launch customer for the 777-8X which is expected to enter service in 2022.

The airline also ordered 30 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, making Etihad the largest customer for the composite aircraft.

James Hogan, President and CEO, Etihad Airways said

“We rarely make announcements at air shows, but when we do the world listens,”

Dubai-headquartered Emirates Airline rapidly re-wrote the Dubai Airshow record with news of a US$99 billion purchase of Boeing and Airbus planes – which industry experts dubbed the largest-ever aircraft order in civil aviation.

The Emirates headline deal was for 150 Boeing 777X, plus 50 purchase rights, and an additional 50 Airbus A380 superjumbos - of which Emirates is currently the largest fleet operator.

Low-cost airline FlyDubai weighed in with a US$11.4 billion order for 111 Boeing 737s and 738s, and then Qatar Airways topped off the morning’s historic agreements with the signing of a US$19 billion letter of intent for 54 Boeing 777s.

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Boeing forecasts $550 billion market in Middle East for new airplanes

By BA Staff

Boeing forecasts that airlines in the Middle East will require 2,610 new airplanes over the next 20 years, worth an estimated $550 billion. While one-third of that demand – 900 airplanes – will replace today's fleets, 66 percent of the demand is expected to be driven by the rapid fleet expansion in the region.

According to the Boeing Current Market Outlook (CMO), long-range, twin-aisle airplanes – such as the Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner – will continue to dominate the Middle East's order books.

Randy Tinseth, Vice President of Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes said:

"International traffic growth in the Middle East continues to outpace the rest of the world. The Gulf region benefits from a unique geographic position that enables one-stop connectivity between Europe, Africa, Asia and Australasia. Additionally, over the last decade, we've seen a rise in low-cost carriers that have benefitted from a large youthful population, large migrant workforce and trends toward market liberalization."

According to the Boeing forecast, twin-aisle aircraft will account for more than half of the region's new airplane deliveries over the 20-year period – as compared to 24 percent globally. Single-aisle airplanes, such as the Boeing 737, will make up 47 percent of regional deliveries through to 2032, while large airplanes such as the Boeing 747 will account for 10 percent of forecasted demand. Regional jets account for the remaining 1 percent of the demand.

Tinseth said:

"Boeing is well-positioned to address demand in the Middle East. Boeing airplanes provide airlines in the region with the capability to serve their expanding networks, the comfort and flexibility for a premium brand experience and the superior operating economics to create advantages not only for the airlines, but the flying public as well."

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Delta expands service at Boston

By BA Staff

Delta Air Lines will increase service at Boston's Logan International Airport with daily year-round and seasonal service to the following seven destinations, including three new markets.

Their services will include:

• New daily service to Jacksonville, Fla. and Richmond, Va., operated by Delta Connection carrier Endeavor Air using 76-seat, two-class CRJ-900s, effective March 3, 2014 and March 6, 2014
• New service to Las Vegas with three flights per week operating a Boeing 737-800, effective March 6, 2014
• Expanding service to Los Angeles with one additional flight for a total of two daily operating a Boeing 737-800, effective April 7, 2014
• New Saturday-only summer seasonal service to Nassau, Bahamas, operated by Delta Connection carrier Shuttle America using 76-seat, two-class E-175s as well as the Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands using an Airbus 320, effective March 8, 2014
• Extended service to Cancun, previously scheduled to end April 26, 2014, now ending Aug. 30, 2014

Bob Cortelyou, senior vice president –Network Planning said:

"We continue to see a growing demand in Boston and increased flights next year will give our customers more direct service at more convenient times. Boston is a key domestic city in our network, and we are committed to providing service that continues to keep us the preferred airline of our customers."

Delta and joint venture partner, Virgin Atlantic, recently announced they will coordinate schedules and retime their respective Boston to Heathrow flights.

Delta currently operates 70 peak-day departures from Logan International Airport to 16 nonstop destinations.

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Airline consumer complaints down from previous year

By BA Staff

Airline consumer complaints filed with DOT’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division during the first nine months of this year were down 14.1 percent from the first nine months of 2012, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Air Travel Consumer Report released.

From January to September 2013, the Department received 10,439 consumer complaints, down from the total of 12,153 filed during the first nine months of 2012. In September, the Department received 1,008 complaints about airline service from consumers, down 6.8 percent from the 1,081 complaints filed in September 2012 and down 23.5 percent from the 1,318 received in August 2013.

The consumer report also includes data on tarmac delays, on-time performance, cancellations, chronically delayed flights, and the causes of flight delays filed with the Department’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) by the reporting carriers.  In addition, the consumer report contains information on airline bumping, mishandled baggage reports filed by consumers with the carriers, and disability and discrimination complaints received by DOT’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.  The consumer report also includes reports of incidents involving the loss, death, or injury of pets traveling by air, as required to be filed by U.S. carriers.

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Emirates to add more features for Children

By BA Staff

Emirates will boost the children’s content on its in-flight entertainment system, ice Digital Widescreen (information, communication, entertainment) in December

Children on an Emirates flight in December have more than 50 hours of kid-friendly TV and new features on ice Digital Widescreen include Nickelodeon featuring Bubble Guppies, Spongebob and Team Umizoomi, and new and updated channels dedicated to Thomas & Friends, Dora the Explorer, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Austin & Ally, and The Gruffalo. This is in addition to the BBC’s CBeebies, pre-school channel Disney Jr., Cartoon Network and over 15 channels of children’s television.

iceDigital Widescreen’s movie line-up is also adding movies such as Despicable Me 2 and One Direction, The Smurfs 2, Planes, and The Croods. Many of these movies are available in up to seven different languages and close to half offer closed captions.

Patrick Brannelly, Emirates’ Vice President Corporate Communications Product, Publishing, Digital & Events said:

“We want getting there to be half the fun, and the flight on Emirates to be the part that everyone in the family looks forward to. Having a great entertainment line-up for kids also helps alleviate some of the travel stress from the parents, so they can relax and enjoy the flight.”

He added:

“Emirates pioneered inflight children’s entertainment with the launch of a dedicated children’s TV channel back in 1992, and the introduction of a huge selection of Disney movies in 2003. We aim to continue raising the bar in this regard and look holistically at the whole entertainment offering such as the variety of games to play, music to listen to, kids activity packs and the newest members of the Emirates family: the Fly With Me Monsters.”

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