Alaska Airlines is legally prohibited from cutting capacity on key routes between Hawai’i and the mainland, part of a deal to secure approval of the merger. But the carrier still has a plan to boost revenue in its islands operations.
Airplanes and Airports
Madrid joins JetBlue’s transatlantic network for Summer 2025
JetBlue will fly to Madrid in Summer 2025, part of the carrier’s strategic approach to European service. The route will operate from Boston from 22 May through 24 October.
Alaska Airlines launches long-haul hub at Seattle, pushes premium
Tokyo will be the first long-haul market for Alaska Airlines from its Seattle hub, with a dozen new markets planned by the end of the decade.
US DOT Proposes Passenger Rights Rules, Compensation for Cancels and Delays
The US Department of Transportation published initial guidance for passenger rights rules similar to those in Europe and Canada, promising cash compensation for some delays, plus other customer care benefits.
Alaska Airlines adds local benefits in Hawai’i
Alaska Airlines has a strong history of benefits for locals in its namesake state. Now that’s extending to Hawai’i with the new Huaka‘i by Hawaiian offering.
Spirit Airlines to restructure debt under Chapter 11 protection
Spirit Airlines will enter a voluntary restructuring, including a prearranged Chapter 11 bankruptcy, to reduce the carrier’s debt while it continues flying. The carrier plans to operate normally during the process.
AI Hot Takes: Checking in from APEX EXPO
Questions about Artificial Intelligence were at the forefront of APEX EXPO. Impressions of what GenAI can actually deliver, however, appeared disconnected from reality.
Small airport subsidy winners announced
Fourteen smallish airports will share $12 million in federal funding over the next five years to support growth of their commercial air service. The awards were announced on Thursday as part of the Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP).
Final objections filed on DCA slot allocation
Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and JetBlue lodged objections with the US Department of Transportation over the assignment of new long-distance slots at DCA. The three carriers were the losers in the recent allocation proceedings.
Spirit sheds 10% of its fleet, sees success with new premium offerings
Spirit Airlines will shed 23 aircraft over the next 6 months, more than 10% of its fleet, as it cuts capacity and raises capital to stabilize its finances.