Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport, already nearly a decade late, might not open in October 2020 after all. As contractors press on towards completing the construction a new challenge now faces the operation: Coronavirus.
Airplanes and Airports
Airlines get a break on coronavirus EC261 comp, looking for more
Airlines received a sliver of good news on Wednesday when the European Commission agreed that cancellations related to the COVID-19 coronavirus should be considered “extraordinary” circumstances within the context of EC261 rules. Still, they expressed concerns that the relief doesn’t go far enough.
JetBlue removes 40% of capacity, delays new deliveries as demand drops
JetBlue joins the collection of US carriers slashing its schedule in response to a drop in demand. The carrier now intends to reduce fly by 40% in April and May, with an expectation of “substantial” cuts in June and July as well.
Trans States Airlines: The first US airline victim of COVID-19
Trans States Airlines will halt operations on 1 April 2020. The carrier, which provides regional jet capacity to United Airlines, will halt operations as the parent carrier slashes flights in response to cratering demand tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond route cuts, airlines initiate extended suspension of operations
A week ago this level of cuts to airline route networks seemed beyond the pale. Now, it appears to be just the start.
Finding happier moments in an absolutely terrible week for the aviation industry
The past couple weeks offered up plenty of pain for the airline industry. There is, however, the occasional bit of fun, interesting or even good news coming through in response to the problems. Here are a few of those more positive stories to consider.
Regulators suspend slot rules, opening door to deeper airline cuts
Expect to see another tranche of significant cuts from airlines in the coming days, lasting through June 2020. EU regulators are the latest to approve a change to the way airport slots are accounted for, opening up the opportunity for carriers to trim flights and conserve cash as the COVID-19 crisis wears on.
Two key takeaways from American’s latest schedule cuts
American Airlines’ route change announcements last night are as much an indicator of the company’s expectations for the years to come as they are the immediate needs of the airline. It is an interesting shift in how the global industry is addressing the COVID-19 challenges.
US to block some European visitors
Looking to visit the United States in the next month? If you’ve been in Europe’s Schengen zone that is going to be a problem. As of 13 March 2020 the US will block arrivals for all non-residents that spent time in Schengen in the 14 days prior to entering the USA.
American Airlines slashes schedule, increases flexibility for customer rebookings
American Airlines joined the Summer 2020 schedule cut party overnight, announcing several international routes that will not operate until at least October and a 7.5% cut in domestic capacity for April. The carrier also dramatically improved its change fee waiver policy, making it easier for passengers to reconsider otherwise non-refundable travel plans.