11 August 2020

Connectivity

Gogo confirms "extensive" discussions to sell commercial airline inflight connectivity business

For more than two years Gogo teased the idea of splitting the company between its Commercial (airline) and Business (private) Aviation segments. The rumblings ebb and flow, but by mid-July the tone of the conversation was undeniable. Now the company confirmed the news. Gogo has retained outside advisors to assist with the formal process to "evaluate our strategic options" for the business.

The post Gogo confirms "extensive" discussions to sell commercial airline inflight connectivity business appeared first on PaxEx.Aero .

Seeking a strategic use for Viasat’s $175 million raise

Was Viasat's recent deal to secure $175mm in new capital just a matter of convenient timing? Or is there a specific plan for the cash? CEO Mark Dankberg got into some of the possibilities today, including potential inflight connectivity opportunities, while clearly leaving the door open for many more options to come.

Loyalty

A peek into the new Aeroplan program from Air Canada

Air Canada finally unveiled details of its new Aeroplan program, following two years of planning. And, if nothing else, the loyalty program reflects on its creators. That appears to be a good thing for consumers, at least given the initial information released today.

United adds domestic lounge benefit for Global Services members

United's top frequent fliers just scored a nice improvement to their travel experience. The company's Global Services members will have access to United Club lounges when traveling on domestic itineraries starting in January 2021. The announcement is the latest play to secure the loyalty of the carrier's high value customers.

The post United adds domestic lounge benefit for Global Services members appeared first on PaxEx.Aero .

Spirit offers 5x bonus miles for new bookings

Ready to earn 5x points on your next flight? Spirit Airlines is the latest carrier to use its loyalty program as an enticement to get people thinking about travel again.

But that doesn't necessarily make it a good idea.

Other Industry News

LATAM’s unlikely recovery funding: Qatar Airways could boost Delta’s position

LATAM's bankruptcy proceedings are getting interesting, with competing DIP funding proposals in play. And one reportedly contains a spectacularly unexpected arrangement between vicious competitors: Qatar Airways and Delta Air Lines.

Virgin Australia to ditch twin-aisle fleet, focus on domestic and regional service

As part of its recapitalization plan Virgin Australia intends to retire its long-haul aircraft. The carrier's five 777s and six A330s will be removed from service as it invests "in the core Virgin Australia domestic and short-haul international operation."

American brings food back to the Admirals Clubs

Food is coming back to the American Airlines Admirals Club lounges. The carrier announced plans to resume the complimentary and paid options this month as part of its phased lounge reopening strategy.

Virgin Atlantic flied for bankruptcy protection, and it mostly doesn’t matter

Virgin Atlantic filed for bankruptcy protection in the US courts on Tuesday, a move that initially sparked concerns among travelers about the future of the company. Fortunately the filing, made under Chapter 15 of the US Bankruptcy Code, is more of a procedural play than anything to be concerned about.