Connectivity
BlackRock boosts SmartSky stake
The BlackRock group of funds will grow its financial stake in SmartSky, and also increase its control of the company.
Norwegian renews IFC contract with Anuvu
Norwegian has renewed and extended its inflight internet partnership with Anuvu. Under the deal the carrier will upgrade currently installed IFC hardware to its Dedicated Space™ technology.
Inmarsat suffers L-band outage over Asia-Pacific region
Thousands of miles from shore the most reliable communications link typically comes over satellite. That came to an abrupt end over the Pacific this week as one of Inmarsat's satellites went offline.
In-Flight Entertainment
AirFi snags trio of customers, including new LEO install
Inflight entertainment is coming to three more airlines, powered by AirFi's streaming IFE solution.
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The Airline Observer
The Airline Observer, a newsletter designed for industry insiders, covers the business of global airlines, including loyalty, pricing, revenue management, and product. It is written by Brian Sumers, a former airline beat reporter at Skift and Aviation Week.
Cabin Design
Austrian confirms Dreamliner future
Austrian Airlines will retire its 767s and 777s, transitioning to the 787 Dreamliner for long-haul operations. The first new 787 will join Austrian's fleet in Summer 2024.
Loyalty
JetBlue sets launch date for new TrueBlue Mosaic program
JetBlue will officially transition to its new Mosaic elite status program next month. While TrueBlue program members have been earning under the new "Tiles" rules since the beginning of the year, the earning progress – and any partial status benefits – will finally go live on 10 May 2023.
Other Industry News
Avelo plans major expansion in Delaware
A major expansion at Wilmington, Delaware shows that Avelo is serious about trying to make air service work in a historically challenged market.
Delta is Going to Start Overbooking More, and We Should All Be Thrilled
Will an increase in overbooking help airlines offset revenues lost because more passengers no-show now that change fees no longer exist??
United plans major growth for Australia, New Zealand
United Airlines will dramatically boost capacity to Australia and New Zealand later this year, aiming to take advantage of a rebound in international travel and strengthening partnerships along the way.
Why Delta Needs to Recover at Its Core Atlanta, Detroit, and Minneapolis Hubs
Grabbing share on the coasts is cool for potential future growth, but not as profitable as the inland hubs. How forgiving will Wall Street be of that opportunity play?