Qatar Airways GCEO Akbar Al Baker is known for making controversial statements. Now he is doing so representing both his airline and IATA, the global aviation trade group. So when he suggests that airline CEOs must be men because “It is a very challenging position” that creates all sorts of new problems.
IATA
Star Alliance teases increased award availability, new top tier for travelers
More award seats? Better elite status recognition? Star Alliance hopes to deliver both thanks to its new digital middleware platform. But can these improvements be delivered without eroding the inherent value of points or the existing status tiers??
Fiji Airways signs on as inaugural oneworld connect member
Oneworld wants to grow its route network and it is willing to take on smaller airlines to deliver on that plan. Fiji Airways is the inaugural member in the new “oneworld connect” program allows limited alliance membership and limited benefits for passengers. But locking up the new connect member airlines is a smart move for the group.
"Smart" luggage battery ban claims its first victim
It was only a matter of time before one of the “smart” luggage suppliers collapsed in the face of airlines banning their batteries in the baggage hold. Bluesmart was the leading contender for such and it delivered, ceasing operations this week and leaving many customers high and dry.
Expect the "Smart" luggage blockade to expand
The big 3 US carriers don’t want your “smart” suitcase in the cargo hold. Expect more carriers to join that effort in the coming days based on comments made this week at the IATA Global Media Day.
Crushing an upstart travel industry in the name of safety
Your fancy new suitcase might not be welcome on an American Airlines flight starting in January. The company is banning “smart” suitcases in the cargo hold if the battery is installed. That’s great from a safety perspective but also introduces a ton of challenges for an upstart #PaxEx industry in what should be its break-out holiday season.