From the Control Tower
Connectivity
Gilat Satellite Networks «Gilat Awarded Multimillion-Dollar Contract for SATCOM Expansion on Trains in Asia-Pacific
Sure, trains aren't planes. But antenna systems that work well on one likely work well on the other. Plus, making satellite-based internet more common on trains is good for the mobile connectivity industry overall.
Croatia Airlines to roll out on board Wi-Fi and product upgrade
Croatia Airlines’ incoming Airbus A220 fleet will feature on board Wi-Fi, as well as other product improvements, the carrier has confirmed.
In-Flight Entertainment
More than just a map: FlightPath3D Celebrates 10 years of moving map evolution
After ten years and more than 4,300 planes installed it is safe to say that the FlightPath3D offering is far more than just a moving map platform. With a mature offering across multiple channels (including some outside the aircraft), the company sees a strong future ahead.
Other Industry News
This time is different: Avelo sees a strong future as it launches Wilmington, DE base
Wilmington, Delaware is on the air world map. Again. Avelo launched operations on 1 February 2023, with Orlando the first of five initial destinations planned, and more on the horizon.
During the inaugural flight I sat down with CEO Andrew Levy to understand in more detail why he felt Wilmington was ready for long-term success with an airline - something that has eluded the airport and the state previously - and what other growth we can expect from Avelo in the years ahead.
NTSB, FAA investigating FedEx, Southwest close call in Austin
Another close call for two aircraft, this time in Austin, TX. A Southwest 737 was cleared to depart ahead of an arriving FedEx 767. And they almost collided. Fortunately the FedEx pilots avoided a disaster.
WestJet cancels direct flights between 3 Canadian cities and Europe for summer 2023
Halifax, Vancouver, and Toronto will lose transatlantic service from Westjet this summer, owing to staffing shortages and aircraft utilization challenges. Given that the TATL market was red hot last year and expected to be similarly lucrative in 2023, that's a rough set of cuts.