Aireon’s space-based ADS-B tracking will know the location of every commercial aircraft. More important are the operational improvements it will bring to life.
Airplanes and Airports
Haggling for Haneda, Clashing over China
Drama is unfolding in the battle for highly coveted route authorities. Haneda is, in theory, the focus but the fight is spilling over to China as well.
The Joon branding experiment is officially over
Millennials finally killed something they should have: The millennial-focused airline. Air France’s Joon brand is officially dead as the company agreed to fold it back into Air France operations.
Multiple aviation projects hit by ongoing government shutdown
As the US government shutdown drags on the number of airline and airport projects at risk continues to grow. These are just a few of the major programs affected.
Southwest clears first ETOPS check in Hawaii plans
Southwest Airlines is inching closer to approval for service to Hawaii. But don’t start planning a trip just yet. The carrier still needs to pass a few more hurdles before it can schedule service.
JetBlue’s A321LR plans: Coming soon(ish)!
When will we finally know JetBlue’s plans with respect to long-haul flying? Soon! Company CEO Robin Hayes recently informed employees of a New Years’ resolution for the company: A decision on the A321LR in 2019.
Canada to issue air traveler protections, compensation guidelines
Airline passengers in Canada will soon have some basic rights codified by the Canadian Transportation Agency. But don’t get too excited about the potential for payouts on your next delayed flight. While that is possible in some circumstances the CTA’s approach ensures that airlines are protected from paying under a wide range of conditions.
Bonds remain a sticking point for WOW’s future
Can $75 million in loans and direct investment save WOW Air? That’s the amount Indigo Partners appears set to invest, with a lot of strings attached. Interim cuts might keep the carrier alive while it waits to learn of its future.
Delta tweaks boarding groups for premium passengers
Delta passengers get to learn a new boarding process starting in January. The carrier announced a revised, “Branded Boarding” process today, aiming to “create a consistent, clear experience from booking to on board” as well as minimize crowding at the gate.
Air Italy faces opposition to new US routes
Is it a legitimate expansion of flights for an Italian airline or simply a ruse, a loophole for evading a nonbinding pledge to curtail growth? Air Italy faces new challenges as the Italian* carrier aims to expand US services.