The bad news continues to spread for Rolls Royce and its Trent 1000. An additional 160+ engines are now subject to new inspections while airlines and passengers should expect growing disruptions as a result.
787
WestJet unveils 787 interior, flat-bed business class offering
It is just an artist rendering but we finally have a first peek at how the new WestJet 787 interiors will be fitted. With three classes of service, including fully lie-flat business class, it is a solid competitor, though not necessarily the “bold” play the company claims.
Handling the 787 Trent challenges
The Rolls Royce Trent 1000 Package C engines power nearly a quarter of the global Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. And they all need extra inspections. Here’s how a few airlines are dealing with the disruptions to their operations.
American’s 787 order: Big win – with challenges – for Boeing
American’s move to the 787 for its fleet refresh is a big win for Boeing and a blow to the A330neo program. But does it also pose challenges for Boeing’s NMA?
Can Norwegian conquer London’s business travel market?
New planes, new inflight services and additional frequencies are all part of Norwegian’s plan to grow in London, seeking to siphon off the premium customers from British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and others. But the carrier faces an uphill battle. Can it succeed?
Virgin Atlantic’s newest used plane breaks connectivity streak
Virgin Atlantic’s newest used plane features the seats and entertainment system the carrier’s passengers have come to know and love. But it is missing the newest amenity – inflight wifi connectivity – and that’s unlikely to change.
A trickle of details for United’s Premium Plus product
A few more details about United Airlines’ new Premium Plus product are now available. Alas, not nearly as much as one would hope given the opportunities the company had this week. Oh, well.
Virgin Atlantic’s 787 woes continue
Virgin Atlantic’s 787 fleet will be grounded longer than expected. The carrier cannot get its Rolls Royce Trent-1000 engines replaced quickly enough and is now set to lease additional aircraft to fill in the shortfall. This means a decidedly different passenger experience for some flights and routes.
Notes of interest from this morning’s American Airlines earnings call
The American Airlines 2014 numbers look pretty good, but the company’s view of the future is what I find interesting. Today’s earnings call held a few interesting nuggets. At least interesting to me.
United adds 787-9 (with wifi!!) to their fleet
More than just getting a new type in the fleet, the new United 787-9 represents a step forward for in-flight connectivity: the line-fit satellite service is a big deal for United, Boeing and passengers alike.