For nearly a decade the promise of reduced maintenance delays and operational savings has been a core factor in pitching airlines on inflight internet service. And for roughly that same period of time airlines have been wondering if those connected aircraft benefits will ever really arrive.
Aeroplan, Avis partner for status match, with a co-brand twist
Air Canada’s Aeroplan elite status holders can now request a complimentary status upgrade in the Avis Preferred® program, extending the value of the status earned to rental cars as well. The status match program is effective immediately and members can register here.
WestJet adds MAX 10 to fleet plan
WestJet plans to add 42 737 MAX 10 aircraft to its fleet, continuing its growth plans. The order also comes with 22 options.
Stelia Rendez-Vous brings new flat-bed option to business class
Airlines have another flat-bed option to choose from, as Stelia Aerospace launches the RENDEZ-VOUS® business class seat to the market. The company calls it one of the widest beds on offer, and it includes an option for the center pair of seats to function as a double bed on board.
Gogo evades 5G injunction in SmartSky suit
Gogo scored an early victory in the proceedings of the patent infringement lawsuit brought by SmartSky. The District Court in Delaware declined SmartSky’s request for a preliminary injunction, allowing Gogo to continue developing, installing, and marketing the Gogo 5G solution.
Virgin Atlantic to join SkyTeam
Virgin Atlantic will join the SKyTeam alliance in early 2023, boosting the group’s presence in the UK. Virgin Atlantic will become SkyTeam’s first and only UK member airline, offering long-haul flights from Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh.
United, T-Mobile activate complimentary WiFi on board
United Airlines is, once again, a partner in the T-Mobile inflight wifi program. The expanded relationship, first tipped two weeks ago, takes effect today. T-Mobile subscribers on eligible plans will receive access to the streaming level connectivity service on select domestic and short-haul international United flights.
SkyFive, Safran Passenger Innovations push forward on connectivity in China
High speed inflight connectivity over China took another step forward earlier this month, as Safran Passenger Innovations (SPI) and SkyFive announced a partnership to integrate their services for airlines. The SkyFive air-to-ground networking hardware will connect to SPI’s RAVE on-board platform, with promises of incredibly high speed, low latency service to passengers.
MOST launches new mobile retailing platform
MOST, a new provider of intuitive and customized retail and payment solutions, is looking to shake up the mobility sector. The company launched a suite of payment solutions that support retail platforms, helping businesses capture more revenue in an increasingly cashless economy, including airline cabins.
Rapid Rewards targets elites with A-List bonus activity
Call it another sign that travel habits shifted over the past couple years. Southwest Airlines has run, in quick succession, a pair of promotions seeking to boost its Rapid Rewards loyalty program with elite status for 2023 now easier to come by. The moves come despite a general return of travel and strong revenue numbers in recent months.