The US Department of Transportation will spend $18 million this year to bolster flight options for smaller airports and communities. Nearly all of that money will funnel to United Airlines and American Airlines.
United Airlines
United toys with free in-flight WiFi for messaging, plus a streaming option
Expect to see some new wifi options on some United Airlines flights, at least for a short while. The company is testing options for higher speeds to support streaming video services, as well as a free option for messaging services, on some of its aircraft.
United’s regional future: It’s Electric!
The next 100 planes United Airlines wants to order are very, very different. The Heart Aerospace ES-19 is a 19-seat electric prop that could dramatically change how the company feeds its hubs from smaller airports. Assuming it gets past the many challenges it faces.
United plans snack, drink pre-ordering option
Looking to ensure that your preferred snack box or beverage is available on board? United Airlines passengers traveling in economy class will soon have that option as the company rolls out a pre-order pilot program.
United’s major IFE move
“We here at United do not think streaming to your own device is good enough.” With that statement United Airlines’ Chief Customer Officer Toby Enqvist upended the company’s take on in-flight entertainment for its single-aisle fleet, mapping a new path for the company’s future.
United bets big on premium traffic rebound with 270 plane order
It is the largest new aircraft order in United Airlines’ history and one of the largest single airline orders ever. United will add an additional 270 planes to its backlog, taking it over 500 single-aisle aircraft on order.
United Airlines plans supersonic Boom with new order
United Airlines plans to purchase at least 15 supersonic jets from Boom. If everything goes to plan the jets could be carrying passengers between the US East Coast and Europe by the end of the decade. That’s a big if.
Spirit Airlines bests FAA in Newark slots spat
Spirit Airlines could soon secure more slots at Newark Airport. A ruling by the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit found that the FAA acted improperly in choosing to not reallocate slots vacated by Southwest Airlines its Newark station closed in late 2019. As a result of that decision Spirit was unable to increase its presence at the airport. With this ruling, however, the FAA likely will be forced to allocate the slots and Spirit (or other airlines) could pick them up.
Big elite earning boost from United (but it’s probably not your best option)
Nearly half way to elite status with just one flight? That’s what United Airlines is offering to members of its MileagePlus program with the new Pick Your Path promotion. And it might not be the best choice for every member.
Hawaii’s big summer: More flights, bigger planes
Travelers looking to visit Hawaii this summer will have plenty of flight options. Airlines expect high demand to the islands and everyone wants to cash in. More than 1100 weekly flights from the mainland are slated to operate in June 2021.