JetBlue continues to trim its operations as demand shows no sign of a near-term recovery. The carrier now expects to schedule approximately 300 daily flights in April 2020, down from more than 1000 on the initial schedule. The move allows the for “maintaining a critical level of service across our network” according to an internal […]
routes
US carriers cut frequencies, not destinations as they seek federal funding
Getting that federal bailout cash means keeping all existing destinations in service for the US airlines. That could prove troubling for some as the cutbacks are already in motion.
JetBlue plans additional draw down in service
On Wednesday JetBlue indicated plans to remove 40% of its capacity for April and May. As with other airlines, however, the carrier continues to see demand free fall. On Sunday afternoon JetBlue President & COO Joanna Geraghty sent a note to inflight crewmembers indicating that further cuts are at hand.
Emirates, Turkish Airlines slash route networks, ground aircraft
Two more large airlines announced major cuts to their route networks this weekend. Emirates will suspend all passenger service while Turkish Airlines will cut nearly all its international destinations.
Qatar Airways plans 75% capacity cut in response to COVID-19
The vast majority of its passengers transit the home base rather than stopping. But with borders closing arround the globe Qatar Airways must respond. The carrier expects 75% of capacity to disappear in the coming days.
Beyond route cuts, airlines initiate extended suspension of operations
A week ago this level of cuts to airline route networks seemed beyond the pale. Now, it appears to be just the start.
Finding happier moments in an absolutely terrible week for the aviation industry
The past couple weeks offered up plenty of pain for the airline industry. There is, however, the occasional bit of fun, interesting or even good news coming through in response to the problems. Here are a few of those more positive stories to consider.
Regulators suspend slot rules, opening door to deeper airline cuts
Expect to see another tranche of significant cuts from airlines in the coming days, lasting through June 2020. EU regulators are the latest to approve a change to the way airport slots are accounted for, opening up the opportunity for carriers to trim flights and conserve cash as the COVID-19 crisis wears on.
Two key takeaways from American’s latest schedule cuts
American Airlines’ route change announcements last night are as much an indicator of the company’s expectations for the years to come as they are the immediate needs of the airline. It is an interesting shift in how the global industry is addressing the COVID-19 challenges.
US to block some European visitors
Looking to visit the United States in the next month? If you’ve been in Europe’s Schengen zone that is going to be a problem. As of 13 March 2020 the US will block arrivals for all non-residents that spent time in Schengen in the 14 days prior to entering the USA.