The disruption is here!

From the Control Tower

Have you ever wondered if there was more to life, other than being really, really, ridiculously comfortable on a transatlantic flight in economy?

That's just one of this week's stories, with some interesting low-bandwidth connectivity news, a revamped loyalty program, and a reopened lounge joining the top headlines.

Connectivity

Inmarsat boosts L-Band network with ELERA launch

Say hello to the next generation of L-band satellite connectivity. Inmarsat ELERA, unveiled this week, promises a dramatic increase in bandwidth, smaller terminals, and lower costs for the narrow-band market. This should drive a significant boost in aircraft safety, among other facets.

Viasat boosts aviation backlog, lingers over LEO likelihood

Viasat is making a lot of money, even though it cannot add new users to its core satellite offering today. But the company is not shying away from aircraft additions, with hundreds more anticipated over the next couple years.

Cabin Design

JetBlue across the Atlantic: A compelling coach offering to London

From the moment the company announced its plans, there was little doubt that JetBlue would bring a different take to the transatlantic market. The real question was what the execution would look like. Now that the A321LRs are flying the answer is clear: It is phenomenal.

In fact – and I don't say this lightly – the product may actually be too much for the trip.

ZAL Innovation Talk: Passenger Experience 5 Years From Now

How much of the current era will still be visible in the aircraft cabin in 5 years? Has Covid killed the business class?

John Walton joins Roland Gerhards and Lukas Kaestner for the ZAL Innovation Talk 'Passenger Experience 5 Years from Now' on Tuesday.

Loyalty

Allegiant revamps loyalty with Allways Rewards

A new loyalty program is coming soon for Allegiant Airlines. The ultra low cost carrier wants to enhance and expand its appeal to repeat customers, while also delivering a simple and relatable offering, dubbed "Allways Rewards."

Other Industry News

Air France unveils its fully redesigned lounge at Montreal-Trudeau airport

On the 11th of August 2021, Air France officially opened its fully redesigned lounge at Montreal's Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. In association with the Plaza Premium Group, the airline now offers its Business and Flying Blue Elite Plus customers a vast, elegant and welcoming space, promoting French-style hospitality to enhance their travel experience.

No more lost luggage: Smart trays and the future of airport security checks

I try to be openminded about new technologies. But, for the life of me, I cannot figure out what problem is being solved by adding blockchain and RFID cards to tracking carry-on bags as they pass through a security checkpoint. But this crew raised some money to find out.

Emerald Media - Ampaire Demonstrates First Hybrid Electric Aircraft in Scotland

Ampaire, a leader in electric aviation, celebrates the first hybrid electric flights in Scotland today, crossing the Pentland Firth from Kirkwall Airport (KOI) on the Orkney Isles to regional airport Wick John O’Groats Airport (WIC) in the north of mainland Scotland. This milestone marks the first set of demonstration flights in the UK.

One key to the trials: Operating on a real route currently flown as a commercial service.

Virgin Atlantic adds non-stop Bahamas flights in a Caribbean boost

Virgin Atlantic will connect Heathrow and the Bahamas this winter, part of its expanding Caribbean services. The new twice-weekly flights begin on 20 November, with tickets on sale from 11 August.