Connectivity
More Delta planes converting to Viasat in-flight WiFi
Chalk up another 230+ Delta Air Lines aircraft to be converted to the Viasat in-flight connectivity platform. The companies announced additional fleet types will comprise nearly the entire Americas fleet for the carrier once the conversion is complete.
Out with the old, in with Anuvu: Global Eagle launches new branding
New name, same focus on "innovation and future-proof solutions for customers." That's the message from Anuvu, the rebranded Global Eagle as it continues to transition under new ownership.
In-Flight Entertainment
Taking off: The Breeze Airways era begins
The Breeze Airways era is underway. The carrier launched flights last week from Tampa to Charleston, kicking off a 16 city network covering 39 routes expected to be in operation by the end of July. It is a bold start, with 13 planes anticipated in the fleet by the middle of the summer.
And by then the company expects the experience will be rather different than day one.
AirFi adds ground Transferz booking to IFE portal
Can car bookings help boost in-flight ancillary revenues? Wireless IFE and retailing supplier AirFi is banking on it, adding integration with global ground transport marketplace Transferz to its in-flight platform.
Cabin Design
British Airways seeks holiday makers with Heathrow handling treats
British Airways has plenty of premium services capacity at its Heathrow home base and far too few passengers using it. Package holiday travelers this summer will benefit from that excess.
Anti-microbial power outlets set to fly
In-seat power behemoth Astronics will begin to manufacture its Outlet Units with a new anti-microbial formulation later this year. This includes the EmPower® system 110VAC, Type A USB, Type C USB and all combination Outlet Units.
New Recaro seats take flight on TAP’s newest A320neo
TAP's relationship with aircraft seating giant Recaro continues to evolve. The carrier's newest plane now flies the latest generation economy seats. TAP was the first announced customer for SL3710 seat, and its new A320 is the first European Airbus aircraft to be equipped with the economy class seat, according to Recaro.
Loyalty
JetBlue, American launch frequent flyer earning reciprocity
American Airlines and JetBlue passengers can now earn points flying on the other carrier. The two airlines announced details of their frequent flyer earning reciprocity plans today, part of their Northeast Alliance efforts.
Other Industry News
Malaysia's AirAsia X gets shareholder go-ahead for restructuring plan
AirAsia X Bhd shareholders have approved the Malaysian budget airline's $15bn debt restructuring, it said on Tuesday, allowing it to pursue a scheme it viewed as key to survival.
Hawaiian Subsidiary Ohana Latest Coronavirus Airline Casualty
Hawaiian Airlines has pulled the plug on its regional turboprop subsidiary, Ohana, which had been temporarily grounded in January. The carrier cited a lack of sustainable restart options for the decision.