Connectivity
SmartSky activates test corridor, moves towards nation-wide deployment
With the "completion of all technical milestones and the opening of the first fully operational coverage zone," the SmartSky in-flight connectivity network is beginning to come online. Route-based flight demonstrations can be performed, marking a major pivot point as it moves towards certification and commercial launch.
paxex.aero
The low-down on LEO IFC options
It should come as no surprise that a trio of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operators believe more than 90% of in-flight connectivity traffic will pass over their networks in a decade's time. Still, hearing how SpaceX, OneWeb and Telesat believe their upcoming constellations will compete for traffic during this week's Global Connected Aircraft Summit reveals slightly different takes on the market and what they believe will be necessary to secure customers going forward.
paxex.aero
First ViaSat-3 satellite completes payload integration
The first of the ViaSat-3 satellites reached a major milestone with completion of payload integration and performance testing. The satellite payload shipped to Boeing Satellite Systems in El Segundo, CA for bus integration. The fully assembled satellite will then undergo a complete series of environmental testing to simulate the rigors of launch and operation in the harsh environment of space. Launch is targeted for early calendar year 2022.
paxex.aero
In-Flight Entertainment
Buh bye, American Way: American’s in-flight magazine is no more
After 55 years of publication, American Way magazine is no more. The on-board magazine for American Airlines takes its last flight in June 2021.
paxex.aero
Loyalty
Elite earning bonuses and adjustments for American, JetBlue
American Airlines and JetBlue recognize that elite requalification thresholds remain a challenge for many travelers. The carriers have come up with shifts in earning means and promotions to help boost accounts, though each in a slightly different manner.
paxex.aero
Other Industry News
American, Avalon place major Vertical Aerospace eVTOL orders*
A pair of major order announcements offer a boost for UK eVTOL hopeful Vertical Aerospace, as more than 750 aircraft could have a new home by the middle of the decade.
paxex.aero
Spirit grows in South Florida, adds major Miami network
Miami International Airport is the place to be as air travel recovers in the United States, and Spirit Airlines will not be left out. The carrier announced a massive expansion into the market, with plans for up to 30 daily flights to 30 destinations.
paxex.aero
Transat to double down on air travel, dump hotels
Many airlines want to be far more than that. Hopes of expanding to offer myriad travel (and, in some cases non-travel) services are broad, extending a brand throughout the “travel ribbon.” But one company with significant experience along that ribbon is shifting course in the other direction.
paxex.aero
American’s additional Austin access: 14 more destinations this winter
It might not be a hub or even a focus city, but it is starting to look a lot more like one. American Airlines continues to boost its presence in Austin, TX.
paxex.aero
Apple adds TSA-compliant ID capability to iOS Wallet
It was nearly a decade ago that Apple launched Passbook as part of iOS 6. That opened the door to a mobile phone storing digital boarding passes, loyalty program cards, and more. Now the company wants to take an even deeper role in the travel experience: Apple wants the iPhone to be your ID as part of iOS 15.
paxex.aero
Anita Frew to become first female chair at Rolls-Royce | Financial Times
Rolls-Royce has named Anita Frew as its next chair, making her the first woman to be appointed to that role in the 115-year history of the British aero-engine group.
Scot’s appointment is a boost to representation of women in British boardrooms.
ft.com
United to split 200-jet order between Boeing, Airbus -sources
United Airlines is in talks to buy around 200 single-aisle jets in a multibillion-dollar revamp set to benefit both Boeing and Airbus, industry sources said.
reuters.com
BA puts thousands of staff back on furlough
BA had begun to bring people back ahead of the easing of restrictions on foreign holidays on 17 May.
But only a small number of countries have been put on the government's green list, meaning travellers do not have to quarantine on their return.
Moreover, official advice remains not to visit amber countries for leisure.
This has meant the travel industry is now almost at a standstill as the majority of people choose not to travel.
bbc.com