Connectivity
Azul goes live with free WiFi on board powered by Viasat
More than a dozen Azul aircraft now offer free in-flight wifi service on board, with plans to surpass 100 fitted planes in the months ahead.
paxex.aero
Tracking tails: More WiFi flying sooner than expected
š In-flight WiFi installations don't have to be a slow, drawn out affair. And even with the rebound in air travel demand in the US, some airlines are finding the necessary downtime in their fleet to get the gear installed. Including one sub-fleet that finished a little faster than previously anticipated.
paxex.aero
Gogo hits 5G installation milestone
The next generation of Gogo's air-to-ground in-flight connectivity network is taking shape. The company announced a number of development milestones this week, including installation of the first ground tower infrastructure and test flights.
paxex.aero
Honeywell, SmartSky sign distribution deal
SmartSky announced a new distribution partner for its in-flight connectivity services. Honeywell will add the business aviation distribution option to its existing portfolio of IFC offerings.
paxex.aero
In-Flight Entertainment
Thales boosts screen, power options with AVANT Up(grade)
The next generation of in-flight entertainment systems is ready to fly from Thales. The company launched the AVANT Up line this week, with upgraded screens, in-seat power, and services options for airlines.
paxex.aero
Air Cairo adds Momentās Flymingo wireless IFE
Egypt's Air Cairo announced plans to add streaming entertainment to its A320 fleet. The system, powered by Moment's Flymingo box streaming IFE solution aims to elevate passenger experience and contribute to enhanced comfort in the cabin.
paxex.aero
Cabin Design
Qatar Airways launches 787-9 with new business class, economy improvements
The new Qatar Airways 787-9 formally enters service this week. The carrier will introduce the aircraft, including updates to both the business and economy class cabins, on key routes to to Europe and Asia.
paxex.aero
Helvetic takes delivery of first E195-E2
Swiss regional carrier Helvetic Airways took delivery of its first E195-E2 today at Embraerās facility in Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil. Three more E195-E2 deliveries are planned by the end of July 2021.
paxex.aero
Loyalty
Bilt Loyalty launches, adding points & travel options for paying rent
Is it really loyalty if you're just paying rent? And does it matter if you're earning a lot of points as part of that experience?
paxex.aero
Other Industry News
Lufthansa brings back A346s, confirms first class for Munich A350s
The big seats up front matter a lot for Lufthansa. The carrier, citing "growing premium demand, for business as well as leisure travel," will "temporarily" reactivate five of its A340-600 aircraft for the Summer 2022 season to help fill that need.
paxex.aero
Cathay Pacific looks at āAmazon conceptā, with customers encouraged to spend on goods, services and products through airline
Cathay Pacific is the latest airline to get behind the concept of selling pretty much anything other than air travel in an effort to make money.
Good luck with that.
scmp.com
Southwest Surprises With a Telling New CEO Pick
Southwest CEO Gary Kelly has been talking about succession for a long time. Long-time Southwest exec Bob Jordan will take over next February when Gary moves up to Chairman of the Board, and that is a surprise on multiple levels. It also says a great deal about the future.
crankyflier.com
Citing a serious flight test incident and lack of design maturity, FAA slows Boeing 777X certification
The FAA has denied Boeing permission to move forward with a key step in certifying its forthcoming 777X jet. It cites a long litany of concerns, including a serious flight control incident on a December test flight.
seattletimes.com
PIT Modernization Cleared for Takeoff
Airlines approve construction of new terminal at PIT with a groundbreaking set for fall 2021
blueskypit.com