Connectivity
Qatar Airways adds Starlink option for inflight internet
Qatar Airways will add SpaceX's Starlink inflight internet service to some of its planes. The carrier announced the deal on Friday, noting the system will be installed "onboard specific aircraft and routes."
Viasat recovers 10% of capacity, will not replace ViaSat-3 Americas satellite
Just 10% of the ViaSat-3 F1 satellite's planned capacity will be available, the company has confirmed. Still, that should leave the satellite as one of the highest capacity systems in orbit, enough that Viasat "remains confident that it will meet the current and future needs of its mobility customers." A replacement satellite will not be required.
In search of the optimal curves for drag performance
Aircraft generally adhere to the "less is more" principle, with smaller and lighter components winning out for installation. So hearing that a larger radome might reduce drag on their aircraft relative to smaller options definitely piqued my curiosity.
Cabin Design
ZIM set for growth through acquisition of HAECO Cabin Solutions
ZIM Aircraft Seating is set to acquire HAECO Cabin Solutions, which will broaden the company’s product range and supplier base, and make it the fourth-largest aircraft seat vendor in the world
Beond sets sights on premium Maldives traffic
Take what you know about the premium cabin air travel experience today and throw it away. That is, at least in part, the message of Beond, the upstart all-premium airline set to launch operations from the Maldives next month.
Loyalty
Emirates' Retro Version of Loyalty
As other foreign carriers chase North American credit card revenue, Emirates has another goal: to keep people flying the airline and paying high fares.
JetBlue adds IHG partnership, adjusts upgrades for 2024 Mosaic program
Frequent fliers (or big credit card spenders) in JetBlue's TrueBlue loyalty program will see a few key upgrades in their Mosaic elite status next year, including upgrades, hotels, and rental cars.
Other Industry News
JSX Is Feeling the Heat
The CEO sounds off about what he says is American's "ham-handed" approach to JSX's expansion. Also: more context about why Allegiant's CEO returned after retiring.
Global Airlines taps Hi Fly for A380 maintenance and retrofit
Global Airlines contracted with Hi Fly to handle maintenance and retrofit work for its first A380 going through the necessary processes before it can carry travelers.