JetBlue’s newly launched service to London will continue to operate at reduced frequencies through October. Gatwick flights will launch as previously planned, but overall flights will be reduced.
Aer Lingus UK receives initial US authorization to fly
The new Aer Lingus UK flights between Manchester, UK and the USA moved a step closer to reality. The US Department of Transportation issued a Show Cause order approving the carrier’s plans and asking for any final objections. Lacking those (and none are expected) the order should take effect by the end of the month.
Eastern plans major cargo push, without major cargo conversion
Air cargo is hot right now, and Eastern Airlines wants in on that action. But the company plans to get there in a unique way.
Flat-rate connectivity bundles launch from Panasonic Avionics
In-flight connectivity packages measured by the megabyte generally suck for consumers. Uncertainty over consumption rates and costs make for a worse passenger experience. Panasonic Avionics now wants to help address that issue, but more for the airlines than passengers.
Jet2 adds Airbus A321neo for fleet renewal, expansion
UK holiday carrier Jet2 is the newest Airbus A321neo customer. The carrier announced an order for 36 of the planes, to be delivered from 2023 to 2028. The airline currently operates a fleet of 737NG and 757 aircraft.
Alitalia Due (a/k/a Italia Trasporto Aereo) applies for US service
Come October 15th Alitalia will cease operations; Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA) will take its place as Italy’s flag carrier. Except that Alitalia will still probably be in business. ITA confirms that it intends to bid on the Alitalia brand at auction as part of its application to serve the United States.
Additional details as Connect Airlines pushes for October launch
Connect Airlines still aims to launch this Fall. An updated Department of Transportation filing sheds light on additional details for how the company plans to fill its planes headed to and from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport downtown.
Porter Air reduces seat pitch as it resumes operations
When passengers return to Porter Air next month they’ll notice a change on board. And a few more people, too. After an 18-month hiatus the carrier is slated to resume flying in mid-September and during the down time it replaced its seats on board. It also added an additional row.
Qantas making big moves, looks to restart international travel
The financials are, expectedly, not great for Qantas. But with the carrier’s latest earnings report it also expressed optimism in the reopening of international markets later this year. And, potentially, a return of the A380 to service sooner than expected.
JetBlue’s Mint Studio to London: Most of the premium, none of the crowd
With half of the aircraft space devoted to the Mint business class cabin it is clear that JetBlue wants to win over the premium travel market to London. And while loads are light as service ramps up (and COVID continues to impact international travel rules), the on-board offering represents well versus the competition.