In-seat power behemoth Astronics will begin to manufacture its Outlet Units with a new anti-microbial formulation later this year. This includes the EmPower® system 110VAC, Type A USB, Type C USB and all combination Outlet Units.
JetBlue, American launch frequent flyer earning reciprocity
American Airlines and JetBlue passengers can now earn points flying on the other carrier. The two airlines announced details of their frequent flyer earning reciprocity plans today, part of their Northeast Alliance efforts.
Out with the old, in with Anuvu: Global Eagle launches new branding
New name, same focus on “innovation and future-proof solutions for customers.” That’s the message from Anuvu, the rebranded Global Eagle as it continues to transition under new ownership.
More Delta planes converting to Viasat in-flight WiFi
Chalk up another 230+ Delta Air Lines aircraft to be converted to the Viasat in-flight connectivity platform.
New Recaro seats take flight on TAP’s newest A320neo
TAP’s relationship with aircraft seating giant Recaro continues to evolve. The carrier’s newest plane now flies the latest generation economy seats. TAP was the first announced customer for SL3710 seat, and its new A320 is the first European Airbus aircraft to be equipped with the economy class seat, according to Recaro.
Spirit Airlines bests FAA in Newark slots spat
Spirit Airlines could soon secure more slots at Newark Airport. A ruling by the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit found that the FAA acted improperly in choosing to not reallocate slots vacated by Southwest Airlines its Newark station closed in late 2019. As a result of that decision Spirit was unable to increase its presence at the airport. With this ruling, however, the FAA likely will be forced to allocate the slots and Spirit (or other airlines) could pick them up.
Safran boosts SkyFive, leads Series A funding
Air-to-ground connectivity company SkyFive bolstered its bank account this week, closing a Series A funding round. The round was led by Safran Corporate Ventures. Also participating in the round was STAR Capital, a European private equity fund manager with a track record of developing emerging infrastructure businesses.
Breeze sets initial routes; first flight next week
Breeze is ready to take flight. The newest US carrier announced its route network today, serving 39 nonstop routes between 16 cities in the Southwest, Midwest, Southeast and Eastern US. The airline will waste no time getting its planes into service. The first flights will operate next Thursday, from Tampa to Charleston and then to Hartford.
NBA League Pass to stream on Viasat-equipped flights
Call it a cool inflight content deal, hamstrung by licensing challenges. Viasat and the NBA teamed up to offer streaming access to the NBA League Pass for passengers through a multi-year deal. Just not for travelers in the USA.
Spirit Airlines WiFi goes live*
Spirit Airlines is now online in the sky. The first few planes fitted with the company’s in-flight wifi connectivity offering recently entered service for passenger use, though a formal launch is not expected until later this year.