Two years following official product launch the Arc maps solution from Panasonic Avionics holds a miniscule market share. As the industry emerges from its pandemic-induced slumber, however, that appears poised to change.
ancillary
Finnair launches "Business Light" basic premium fare option
Finnair believes that some business class passengers might be making the purchase solely for the premium in-flight experience. The carrier launched a “Business Light” ticketing option today that delivers the on-board amenities but not other business class benefits.
Elite earning bonuses and adjustments for American, JetBlue
American Airlines and JetBlue recognize that elite requalification thresholds remain a challenge for many travelers. The carriers have come up with shifts in earning means and promotions to help boost accounts, though each in a slightly different manner.
Taking off: The Breeze Airways era begins
The Breeze Airways era is underway. The carrier launched flights this morning from Tampa to Charleston, kicking off a 16 city network covering 39 routes expected to be in operation by the end of July. It is a bold start, with 13 planes anticipated in the fleet by the middle of the summer.
AirFi adds ground Transferz booking to IFE portal
Can car bookings help boost in-flight ancillary revenues? Wireless IFE and retailing supplier AirFi is banking on it, adding integration with global ground transport marketplace Transferz to its in-flight platform.
JetBlue to eliminate change fees, adjust carry-on rules
JetBlue is eliminating change fees from most fares and also removing the option for its Blue Basic passengers to bring a carry-on bag into the cabin as part of its latest fare families update.
British Airways revamps Speedbird Cafe, requires advance purchase
Passengers planning to eat on board their next British Airways short-haul route will need to plan ahead. As part of the new Speedbird Cafe program the airline will only cater fresh food for passengers who order and paid in advance.
Fareportal sues JetBlue as access is cut
JetBlue faces accusations of excluding online travel agencies to “illegally acquire, enhance, and maintain its monopoly over passenger air travel” in markets where it holds a dominant share. Fareportal, parent of CheapOair, filed the suit this week after the carrier cut off access for Fareportal to sell the carrier’s fares.
Holding the line: Intelsat sees minimal near-term change with Gogo Commercial Aviation acquisition
We’re just a couple weeks into the formal transition process of the Gogo Commercial Aviation division into the Intelsat operation, but the teams involved have never been more optimistic about the future of in-flight connectivity and the value they can deliver to airlines and passengers.
Oman Air launches "My Space" seat blocking
Call it an anti-social networking option. Oman Air has a new “My Space” option for economy class travelers to secure a blocked middle seat when flying.