Saudi Arabia’s first air-to-ground inflight internet service is now online, thanks to Saudia, Skyfive, CITC, STC, and Eclipse Global Connectivity.
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Star Alliance, HSBC launch an Australian credit card
The new Star Alliance credit card, first teased in May of this year, is now live in Australia. Launched in partnership with HSBC, the first of its kind co-brand credit card allows members to earn Star Alliance Points and elite status with seven partner airline loyalty programs.
AirFi delivers inflight retail for AirAsia (and more)
AirAsia selected the AirFi wireless platform to boost inflight retail sales and entertainment options on board. The carrier has long offered a digital on-board experience across parts of its fleet. Plus, a few other airline customers coming online.
JetBlue snags second Heathrow slot
JetBlue appears to have secured a second permanent daily slot at London’s Heathrow Airport beginning in Summer 2023. This allows the carrier to operate double daily flights into one of the most difficult markets to secure access.
Korean Air speaks a new design language with A321neo launch
It’s out with the blue and in with the new as Korean Air revealed an updated cabin design for its Airbus A321neo fleet.
SLAs suck: Seeking a service specification shift
“Our providers say they’re meeting our contracted service level agreement (SLA), but our customers say the performance isn’t there. Something doesn’t add up.” What are inflight connectivity SLAs measuring, and can they be used to hold suppliers accountable? Or should they be dispensed with completely?
Could Allegiant deliver an interline win?
Allegiant typically operates any given route only on limited days of the week. For travelers looking to book a longer or shorter trip, the company loses out on that potential ticket sale. And, more importantly to the business model, it loses out on the associated hotel, rental car, and other ancillary bookings.
Next Gen JetWave antenna boasts boosted BizAv performance
Honeywell plans to offer a new version of its JetWave terminal solution for the business aviation market. Developed to connect on Inmarsat’s JetConneX Ka-band network, the updated terminal expects to deliver improved performance with an eye towards the next generation of satellites in orbit.
Starlink/JSX STC slips
The first plane is fitted and flying. The new SpaceX Starlink inflight connectivity system on JSX works, and the companies are excited to deploy it fleet wide. Alas, it does not appear they will meet the target timeline of having the system fully installed before the end of the year. The necessary Supplemental Type Certification (STC) remains pending with the authorities.
Gogo sees record revenue, saves on 5G lawsuit costs
Gogo’s legal victory at the end of September allows the company to continue selling its new Gogo 5G network, even as SmartSky believes it will succeed with an appeal to have the injunction reinstated. The ruling also saved the company a few million dollars.