Connectivity
SmartSky secures additional funding, sets Summer launch plans
SmartSky announced a new timeline for network deployment, plus some additional cash to help it get there.
KLM takes first E195-E2
KLM's brand new E195-E2 contains an updated interior that should keep passengers comfortable on board, including the (eventual) activation of Viasat's Ka-band satellite connectivity solution on board.
In-Flight Entertainment
New Planes, Old Games
Passengers will soon have the opportunity to play some of the most recognized games in pop culture history on a flight. Panasonic Avionics Corporation announced an agreement with Bandai Namco to offer a number of gaming classics on its in-flight entertainment systems as part of a push to strengthen its IFE gaming portfolio.
Loyalty
The Magic of Loyalty
The magic of loyalty is something we’ve all experienced in our lifetimes, and yet, few of us can articulate that powerful feeling while linking it back in a business context.
The magic of loyalty cannot be explained with numbers.
Or can it??
Other Industry News
GPS jamming a growing issue for airlines and ATC
Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are essential to safe aviation operations, enabling today’s aircraft to rely on accurate and reliable position, speed or time at any point and without interruption. GNSS is used by aviation communications, navigation and surveillance (CNS) systems and air traffic management. However, a recent spike in interference - or jamming - is clearly reducing the efficiency of the overall aviation system, placing a higher workload on pilots and air traffic controllers. It also poses a serious potential risk to safety if no further mitigating actions are taken.
United Airlines Goes the Last Mile With New Bus Service to Ski Resorts
Take the bus to the plane. Makes plenty of sense, right? Especially in smaller markets relatively close to a major hub airport where the terrain makes for very limited flying options. United Airlines is adding a couple "routes" from Denver where the new service will connect to the mountains.
Lynne Embleton appointed CEO of Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus has a new CEO as of April. Lynne Embleton will take on the role, hoping to shepherd the carrier through the post-COVID recovery and realignment across the Atlantic with its IAG partners and America Airlines. She also joins an unfortunately small group of female airline CEOs.
Scammy COVID-safety "certifications" could put industry recovery at risk
In the COVID era many companies are more than happy to provide some sort of safety rating, hoping to boost the travel industry's recovery. Alas, despite their ostensibly noble goals, the end results appear to generally be garbage not worth trusting at all.
But that doesn't stop the marketing hype.