Virgin Atlantic reiterated its expectation that in-flight WiFi connectivity will eventually be free to passengers. But don’t expect that in the immediate future. The company is much more focused today on improving the paid take rates than transitioning to a free model.
ATPCO adds testing, vaccine requirements to flight search results
Airlines and online travel agencies can now quickly and easily inform passengers of destinations’ COVID-19 testing requirements inline as part of flight searches. The new data distributed by industry stalwart ATPCO provides clear details about which countries and airlines require proof of a negative COVID-19 test before departure and if vaccination is required to enter a country.
Alaska Airlines’ 737 MAX takes flight, without WiFi
Alaska Airlines is the latest member of the 737MAX family, operating its first commercial flights with they type today. But passengers on board faced a bit of a surprise: No WiFi active on the newest plane in the fleet.
Alaska Airlines giving away 25,000 flights to new MileagePlan members
Alaska Airlines wants to expand its frequent flyer base in California, and free flights are on offer. The company will give away up to 25,000 round trip flights to California residents that joins the loyalty program this week.
More MAX for United Airlines
United Airlines will grow its 737 MAX fleet significantly in the next three years. The company announced a deal to increase the order book with Boeing by 25, with delivery slated for 2023. Additional adjustments to the order book should see a total of 90 new MAX join the carrier’s fleet by the end of 2023.
New Planes, Old Games
Passengers will soon have the opportunity to play some of the most recognized games in pop culture history on a flight. Panasonic Avionics Corporation announced an agreement with Bandai Namco to offer a number of gaming classics on its in-flight entertainment systems as part of a push to strengthen its IFE gaming portfolio.
KLM takes first E195-E2
KLM’s brand new E195-E2 contains an updated interior that should keep passengers comfortable on board, though questions remain about the full suite of amenities to be offered.
SmartSky secures additional funding, sets Summer launch plans
SmartSky announced a new timeline for network deployment, plus some additional cash to help it get there.
Scammy COVID-safety "certifications" could put industry recovery at risk
In the COVID era many companies are more than happy to provide some sort of safety rating, hoping to boost the travel industry’s recovery. Alas, despite their ostensibly noble goals, the end results appear to generally be garbage not worth trusting at all.
Qingdao moves forward with full-fleet connectivity plan
Qingdao Airlines is moving forward with installation of in-flight connectivity on its fleet. Integrator FTS is leading the project with hardware from Gilat and the CHina Satcom satellite infrastructure.