Career Pilot
2010 Industry News
Boeing resumes 787 flight testing
Boeing resumed flight testing of its 787 Dreamliner on Dec. 23 after installing an interim version of updated power distribution system software and confirming the flight readiness of ZA004, the first of the six flight test airplanes that will return to flight. "Initially, we will resume a series of Boeing tests that remain to be completed in the flight test program. That testing will be followed later by a resumption of certification testing," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. Thursday's testing included an intentional deployment of the ram air turbine (RAT), a small turbine that provides back-up power. Flight testing of the 787 was suspended in November following an in-flight electrical incident in Laredo, Texas.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 28, 2010 ]
New Jeppesen service bridge to paperless cockpit
SkyWest Airlines has entered a new five-year agreement with Jeppesen for the chart provider’s AirSide Service, delivery of preassembled Jeppesen operational manuals, standard operating procedures, and navigational charts. The service eliminates the need for pilots to assemble revisions and transport approximately 35 pounds of paper-based charts and other materials for each flight. Jeppesen coordinates manual assembly of critical flight information and delivers the paper materials onboard the aircraft, where the manuals remain following each flight. Jeppesen said AirSide Service is a bridge to the eventual elimination of paper-based flight materials in the cockpit, with a transition to digital flight information delivery. The service initially will be used with SkyWest’s fleet of 246 Canadair regional jets, and will expand to include its nearly 50 Embraer aircraft in the coming months.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 28, 2010 ]
JetBlue to launch seasonal Martha's Vineyard flights
JetBlue Airways announced Dec. 23 that it plans to add seasonal daily service to Martha's Vineyard, which will become the airline's 66th destination. The carrier said it will offer daily nonstop service between the Vineyard and New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. JetBlue has offered connections to Martha's Vineyard through Boston since 2007 in cooperation with Cape Air; its new nonstop service—operated with 100-seat Embraer 190 aircraft—will complement that year-round option.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 28, 2010 ]
Southwest to take 20 ETOPS 737-800s
Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines’ chairman, president, and CEO, told the Wings Club in New York City on Dec. 15 that the company will substitute 20 of its 737-700 orders for -800s, with the first delivery scheduled for March 2012. Southwest’s pilot and flight attendant unions have added the larger aircraft to their current collective bargaining agreements. “The -800 sets the stage to bring more destinations into the realm of possibilities for Southwest, to operate a more economical aircraft, and to offer better scheduling flexibility in high-demand, slot-controlled, or gate-restricted markets," Kelly said. The new model will be delivered in full extended-range twin-engine operational performance standards (ETOPS) configuration and will include Boeing's Sky interior, which offers a quieter cabin, LED reading and ceiling lighting, and other features.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2010 ]
North American converting Boeing 757-200 to Combi configuration
North American Airlines, a subsidiary of Global Aviation Holdings Inc., and the aerospace division of Vision Technologies Systems, Inc. announced Dec. 17 that they will convert Boeing 757-200 passenger aircraft to Combi configuration, accommodating up to 10 cargo pallets and providing comfortable cabin seating for 45 passengers. Alaska Airlines has flown combi-configured Boeing 737s for years, in 2007 replacing 737-200 Combis with two similarly configured 737-400 aircraft. "The B-757 Combi will be utilized on routes where our customers require the shipment of heavy supplies as well as personnel," said Brian Bauer, Global Aviation’s chief commercial officer. VT Systems' aerospace division previously designed and converted two Royal New Zealand Air Force 757-200 passenger aircraft into multi-role combination configuration, and jointly developed with Boeing the engineering solution for the 757-200 passenger-to-freighter (PTF) conversion; to date is has completed or is under contract to deliver more than 100 such conversions. Founded in 1989, North American Airlines provides customized, non-scheduled air transport services using Boeing 757-200 and Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2010 ]
Continental announces nonstop service to Hilo
Continental Airlines announced Dec. 15 new daily nonstop service to Hilo, Hawaii, from Los Angeles International Airport and once-weekly service to Hilo from San Francisco International Airport. Continental will use 160-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft on the new routes, which will begin June 9, 2011. The company said the new flights complement Continental's and United's extensive service to Hawaii; United has served the islands since 1947.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2010 ]
Southwest will add Boeing 737-800 to fleet
Southwest Airlines announced Dec. 1 that its pilots’ union, the Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA), voted to ratify a tentative agreement reached with the company in October to add the Boeing 737-800 to the current collective bargaining agreement. The agreement also extends the pilots’ current contract by one year, to August 2012, and allows for wage rate increases based on the company's financial performance. The pilots voted in favor by more than 75 percent to place the -800 into their collective bargaining agreement, SWAPA noted. “Our pilot group has spoken, and wants the addition of this airframe into our fleet," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, president of the union that represents more than 5,900 Southwest pilots. Mike Van de Ven, Southwest’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, said the company will now move forward with Boeing to substitute 737-800s for current -700 delivery positions, as well as to determine configuration and equipage options, and expects to take delivery of its first 737-800 in the first quarter of 2012.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 7, 2010 ]
Horizon Air pilots accept 5-year agreement
Horizon Air pilots on Dec. 1 announced that they have approved a five-year collective bargaining agreement with Horizon Air, a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group. The pilots, represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters APA Local 1224, said the new contract includes dramatic improvements in work conditions; pilots will be writing their own schedules, and a progressive scheduling process will allow pilots to trade schedules to accommodate personal needs. Improved pay protection and significant ratification bonuses also were included in the agreement. "We look forward to implementing this new contract, especially the scheduling portion," said Capt. Trevor Bulger. "[It] is a major industry improvement in that our pilots now have the ability to essentially build their own schedules.” Nearly 77 percent of Horizon's pilots voted, and more than 59 percent of those voted in favor of the agreement; the ballots were tallied Nov. 30. Horizon's pilot contract became amendable in September 2006. After years of negotiations, in January 2010 both Horizon and the IBT requested federal mediation to work through the remaining open items.
[ POSTED DECEMBER 7, 2010 ]
Hawaiian adds 6 more A330s to fleet plan
Hawaiian Airlines announced Nov. 29 that it has increased its firm commitments for new long-range Airbus A330-200 aircraft from 10, including three already in service, to 16. The additional widebody airliners, to be delivered between 2012 and 2015, will “give us more flexibility as we pursue domestic and international expansion opportunities and replace our existing long-haul fleet in the coming years,” said Mark Dunkerley, Hawaiian's president and CEO. The A330s will carry 294 passengers in a two-class configuration, 30 more per aircraft than Hawaiian’s fleet of Boeing 767-300ERs, and can fly nonstop between Hawaii and points throughout North America, eastern Asia, and Australasia. The carrier is expanding its service into Asia, inaugurating nonstop service between Honolulu and Tokyo's Haneda Airport on Nov. 17. Beginning in 2017, Hawaiian will take delivery of the first of six new A350XWB-800 (extra wide body) aircraft from Airbus, with rights to purchase an additional six aircraft.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 30, 2010 ]
Boeing changes 787 power panel, software
Boeing said Nov. 24 that it will make minor design changes to power distribution panels on the 787 and update the systems software that manages and protects power distribution on the airplane. These changes come from what Boeing has learned from an onboard electrical fire on a test airplane, ZA002, earlier this month in Laredo, Texas. "We have successfully simulated key aspects of the onboard event in our laboratory and are moving forward with developing design fixes," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. Engineers determined that the fault began as either a short circuit or an electrical arc in the P100 power distribution panel, most likely caused by the presence of foreign debris. The P100 panel, one of five major power distribution panels on the 787, receives power from the left engine and distributes it to an array of systems.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 30, 2010 ]
Flight attendants’ union charges Delta with interference
The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) on Nov. 23 filed formal interference charges with the National Mediation Board against Delta Air Lines management, alleging unlawful conduct during the recent flight attendant representation election. Delta management compromised the secrecy of the ballot by urging flight attendants to vote on company-controlled work computers that could track whether they clicked on the NMB's internet voting site, the union said. It also said hundreds of Delta/Northwest flight attendants have reported coercive and unfair methods used by management to influence the results of the recent union election. "Delta management launched the largest antiunion campaign in history and spared no expense in attempting to destroy the collective bargaining rights that Northwest flight attendants have worked to maintain for over 60 years,” said Patricia Friend, AFA-CWA international president. If the NMB finds sufficient evidence that election interference occurred, it can order a new election. On Nov. 3, the board counted 9,216 votes in favor of union representation for Delta flight attendants and 9,544 votes against.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 30, 2010 ]
Pilots’ union endorses 1,500-hour flight time requirement
In a statement released Nov. 22, Cap. David P. Bourne, director of the Airline Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, addressed the FAA's current Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding minimum pilot standards. "We fully support the position of the Coalition of Airline Pilot Associations [CAPA] that under no circumstances should there be a lowering of the minimum hours requirement for those pilots who have a college degree from accredited aviation schools,” he said. "To be clear—we have the highest respect for anyone who completes a course of higher education. The fact is that a four-year degree has no relationship to an individual's skills as a pilot. The simple truth is, regardless of the classroom situations and lessons learned in that environment, there is no acceptable substitute for the experience of actual flight hours in aircraft.” Fully automated cockpits and other technology is subject to failure, he continued, “and it is when that failure occurs that the skills of a pilot are tested. A pilot is unable to draw upon a college degree to ensure a successful outcome; they must instead draw upon those hours and years of experience to avoid a disaster.” The 1500-hour requirement with specific experience must be the minimum acceptable standard, Bourne said.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 23, 2010 ]
Security frustrations could slow Thanksgiving travel
Nonprofit airline passenger rights group Flyers Rights has joined consumer advocate Ralph Nader and Paul Hudson of the Aviation Consumer Action Project to demand meetings with federal transportation and security officials to discuss continuing issues regarding full-body scanners and enhanced pat-downs by TSA personnel. "Airline passengers have so far been ignored in this process," said Kate Hanni, director of Flyers Rights. As the busy Thanksgiving travel period began, Flyers Rights and other groups called online for passengers to decline the full-body scanners—triggering the alternative, a time-consuming physical pat-down—as a protest. While the American Federation of Government Employees—the union for TSA workers across the country—agrees that strong security measures need to be in place, “the general public needs to know what the security procedures are and what their rights are as citizens," said John Gage, national president of the union. "TSA must do a better job explaining these measures to the flying public.” He said the absence of information has resulted in a backlash against transportation security officers, including in Indianapolis where a TSA officer was punched by a passenger. TSA Administrator John Pistole on Nov. 22 issued a public service announcement to ensure passengers are prepared for screening when coming through airport security checkpoints. The video message and airport posters are part of a communication program, TSA said.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 23, 2010 ]
AirTran pilots ratify agreement, flight attendants protest stalled talks
AirTran Airways announced Nov. 19 the successful ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement with its pilots. More than 93 percent of the eligible pilots voted on the agreement, and an overwhelming 86.9 percent of them voted in favor of the measure. The agreement takes effect December 1, 2010, and provides for increased compensation, improved benefits, and productivity enhancements. AirTran’s more than 1,700 pilots are represented by the Air Line Pilots Association. Meanwhile, the carrier’s flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), will take their frustrations over stalled contract negotiations public the Wednesday before Thanksgiving when they picket Nov. 24 outside Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The flight attendants began contract negotiations in December 2007. Despite Southwest Airlines' recent announcement to acquire AirTran, management acknowledges that the flight attendants will continue to work under the AirTran contract for at least another two years, the union said, noting the possible change in ownership does not negate the carrier's obligation under the Railway Labor Act to negotiate with its flight attendants in good faith. "Management has worked with its pilots to negotiate an acceptable contract to work under through the Southwest merger process, but refuses to offer some of the same fair work rules to its flight attendants,” said Alison Head, AFA-CWA AirTran president. “Why would you extend fair work rules to one group of safety professionals and not to the other?"
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 23, 2010 ]
Southwest, AirTran receive additional antitrust requests
Southwest Airlines Co. and AirTran Holdings, Inc. announced Nov. 9 that each had received a request for additional information from the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with Southwest's previously announced proposed acquisition of AirTran. This action, often referred to as a "second request," is a common part of the regulatory approval process under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act. Both companies are gathering information to respond to the request. Completion of the transaction remains subject to the approval of AirTran stockholders, receipt of Department of Justice and any other necessary clearances, and fulfillment of customary closing conditions. The airlines expect the transaction to close in the first half of 2011.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 9, 2010 ]
UPS, pilots sign safety, security agreements
United Parcel Service and the Independent Pilots Association, the collective bargaining unit for its 2,800 pilots, on Nov. 4 signed a memorandum of understanding that establishes joint UPS/IPA safety and security task forces. The Safety Task Force will address Emergency Vision Assurance System (EVAS); full-face oxygen masks; comprehensive fire mitigation and suppression systems; checklists procedures for smoke and fire; and the carriage of lithium batteries and other potential fire and smoke hazards. The Security Task Force will work on communication and coordination within/between UPS, affected crewmembers, and the IPA; air cargo security procedures; threat procedures; improved access to security directives; perimeter security; and background checks for those who have access to UPS aircraft. "UPS and IPA acknowledge that the air cargo/express package industry faces unique threats in the era of global terrorism,” said Capt. Robert Thrush, IPA president. “We also recognize the key role our pilots can play in the mitigation and management of these threats, both from the flight deck and by working together to improve cargo security and screening."
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 9, 2010 ]
American Eagle adds Mexican destinations, expands U.S. service
American Eagle Airlines, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, announced Nov. 8 that it has received government approval to begin nonstop jet service from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to two new destinations in Mexico. On Feb. 10, Eagle will begin daily flights to General Heriberto Jara International Airport in Veracruz, and to Queretaro International Airport in Queretaro. Embraer regional jets will be used on both new routes. Also on Nov. 8, Eagle announced it will add another daily round-trip flight between Chicago O'Hare International Airport and the University of Illinois' Willard Airport in Champaign, Ill., and between O’Hare and Fort Wayne International Airport in Fort Wayne, Ind. The increased frequencies, using 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets, will begin Feb. 10.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 9, 2010 ]
Boeing expects increased China demand
Boeing, currently China's leading provider of passenger airplanes, forecasts that China will require 4,330 new commercial airplanes valued at $480 billion over the next 20 years. The bulk of new deliveries are expected to be fuel-efficient, single-aisle airplanes. Over the forecast period, China will triple in airplane fleet size, making it the largest airplane market outside of the United States. "China is one of the world's fastest-growing and dynamic aviation markets, driven by the urbanization of China, the growth of its economy, and ever-increasing personal wealth," said Randy Tinseth, vice president of marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, who released Boeing's 2010 China market outlook Nov. 3 in Beijing. "We expect domestic passenger traffic for China to grow at a rate of 7.9 percent on average." The company forecasts that 71 percent of China's demand will be for single-aisle airplanes, with total deliveries reaching 3,090. Chinese air carriers are expected to add about 330 freighter airplanes by 2029.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 9, 2010 ]
Delta flight attendants reject AFA representation
The National Mediation Board said Nov. 3 that a majority of its 20,000 flight attendants voted against representation by the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA). “There were 18,760 votes cast and 53 percent voted against AFA representation,” said Joanne Smith, Delta senior vice president of in-flight service. “There were 19,887 eligible voters, of which only 44 percent voted for AFA.” As soon as Delta can align pay, benefits, work rules, and produce a single seniority list incorporating Delta and former Northwest flight attendants, Smith said, the workforce can be fully integrated, including single bids for base transfers. “We will release the transition plan with anticipated timelines for full integration as soon as we can,” she said.
[ POSTED NOVEMBER 9, 2010 ]
AirTran flight attendants seek mediation
AirTran flight attendants filed for mediation with the National Mediation Board (NMB) Oct. 27 after negotiations with the company broke down. Although Southwest Airlines recently announced its intention to acquire AirTran, the expected change does not negate the carrier's obligation to negotiate with its flight attendants in good faith, the union said. "For over three years, AFA-CWA has tried to work with management on negotiating a contract that adequately reflects the work and dedication we continue to provide to this airline," said Alison Head, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA for AirTran. Following the announcement of the acquisition by Southwest, AirTran management approached AFA-CWA requesting an abbreviated list of the flight attendants' greatest concerns in order to expedite negotiations. When presented with the union's "short list" proposal, the company responded with a counterproposal consisting mostly of existing contract language and minimal pay increases—and which, the union said, did not address the most basic work, duty, and rest provisions.
[POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2010]
Air Wisconsin pilots seek profit share
Pilots at Air Wisconsin, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), entered into contract negotiations with Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation management Oct. 27. “We are very optimistic about achieving a quality contract that compensates our pilots for the high level of productivity that has supported Air Wisconsin’s growth,” said Capt. Joe Ellis, chairman of the Air Wisconsin pilots’ chapter of ALPA. “We have surveyed the pilot group twice and spent countless hours speaking with our fellow pilots,” said Capt. Mark Lockwood, negotiating committee chairman. “The overwhelming sentiment that we have heard is that the ARW pilots want more of Air Wisconsin’s earnings, not less.” Despite the recession and current economic climate, he said, Air Wisconsin continues to make money, has recalled all its furloughed pilots, and begun hiring new pilots. The company’s 650 pilots fly Bombardier CRJ200 regional jets for US Airways Express.
[POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2010]
Crew scheduling software to integrate fatigue management
Kronos Inc. announced Oct. 27 that it has partnered with Circadian—a research, consulting, and technology firm in the field of shift work and crew scheduling—to integrate Circadian’s fatigue and alertness module into Kronos’ airline crew planning, management, and optimization software. Duty periods and rest requirements, traditionally based on industry flight time limitations, are beginning to move toward fatigue risk management-based regulations, which use physiological models rather than defining hard limits on work and rest. Regulators at the Australia Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (NZ-CAA) already are permitting flight time limitations based on the use of fatigue risk management systems, Kronos said, adding that H.R. 5900, the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act, required all commercial air carriers to develop an FAA-acceptable fatigue risk management plan by Oct. 31, 2010. Kronos said its automated, optimized schedules for cabin and cockpit crew will be evaluated in real time for fatigue risk, enabling crew planners to determine acceptable levels of crew fatigue.
[POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2010]
Delta to accept Northwest-ordered 787s
Delta Air Lines announced Oct. 25 that it will take delivery of the first of 18 Boeing 787s in 2020, ChicagoBreakingNews reported. The jets had been ordered by Northwest Airlines before the carriers merged. Delta stated in a regulatory filing that the 787-8 variants would be delivered between 2020 and 2022, ending uncertainty about the order, originally scheduled for delivery from 2008 to 2010. The first customer 787 is slated for delivery to All Nippon Airways in February 2011—nearly three years later than originally announced.
[POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2010]
ExpressJet pilot risks job, opts out of new security screening
An ExpressJet pilot commuting to work declined to be screened in a full-body imaging device at Memphis on Friday, Oct. 15—“opting out” of the new Advanced Imaging Technology procedure is allowed. However, the alternate security screening is a pat-down by Transportation Security Administration officers, and Michael Roberts declined that, as well. He left the airport without boarding a flight to Houston, where he was scheduled to report for duty, according to the Seattle Times. Some pilots have expressed concern about potential health effects from the new X-ray technology, as well as the possible effect of cumulative exposure to the X-rays, but Roberts doesn’t cite radiation exposure in a blog post about the incident. “I suppose my employment status at this point can best be described as on hold,” he says in the blog. Roberts started a lengthy conversation about his actions on an ExpressJet pilots’ forum. On Aug. 4, ExpressJet Holdings, Inc. announced that SkyWest, Inc. would acquire all of the outstanding common shares of ExpressJet and merge ExpressJet Airlines into its wholly-owned subsidiary, Atlantic Southeast Airlines.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 26, 2010 ]
AirTran pilots agree on contract, Southwest pilots get raise
AirTran Airways announced Oct. 21 that it has reached a tentative agreement on terms of a new five-year collective bargaining agreement with the Air Line Pilots Association, which represents more than 1,700 AirTran pilots. The tentative agreement calls for increased compensation, improved benefits, and enhancements to productivity; specific terms of the agreement will not be released. If the airline’s pilots ratify the agreement, it will take effect Dec. 1. AirTran’s parent company announced Sept. 27 that it has agreed to be acquired by Southwest Airlines. The Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA) learned Oct. 21 that the negotiated profitability-based raise in its new contract has earned them a 3-percent salary increase for 2010. During Southwest’s recent contract negotiations with its pilots, no increase was expected for the period. SWAPA represents more than 5,900 Southwest pilots.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 26, 2010 ]
Business travelers express concerns with regional carriers
The Business Travel Coalition on Oct. 26 released results and analysis of a comprehensive survey of travel industry professionals regarding the U.S. regional airline model. It will present the findings at an NTSB symposium Oct. 26 and 27 about airline code-sharing arrangements and their role in aviation safety. The survey, of corporate travel managers and travel management company executives in the United States and abroad, found that a majority of business travelers are concerned over perceived safety differences between regional airlines and major network carriers—a concern that has been consistent over time. A majority of corporations indicated that they would be willing to pay much higher airfares in return for higher safety standards at the regional airlines. Meanwhile, corporate travel managers indicated that they view the painting of regional airplanes, operated by one company but with the logo of its major airline code-share partner, as amounting to deceptive marketing. Travel management companies and online travel agencies don’t provide sufficient information at the point of sale to notify travelers of code-sharing arrangements, they said. The full survey results and analysis can be found online.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 26, 2010 ]
United, Continental announce new routes from hubs
United Continental Holdings, Inc. on Oct. 21 announced several new nonstop routes in 2011 as it begins to optimize the combined route networks of United Airlines and Continental Airlines. Continental will add new flights between Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport and Bakersfield and Palm Springs, Calif.; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Grand Junction, Colo.; Hobbs, N.M.; Montreal; and Reno, Nev. Continental also will begin flights from Cleveland Hopkins International to Cincinnati, Ohio, and from New York/Newark Liberty to Des Moines, Iowa. United plans new service from Washington Dulles International Airport to Louisville, Ky.; Minneapolis/St. Paul; Salt Lake City; Tulsa, Okla., and Grand Cayman. United also will start new service between Denver International Airport and Amarillo, Dallas Love Field, and Lubbock, Texas; from Los Angeles to Austin, Texas; and from San Francisco International Airport to New Orleans. "One of the key benefits of our merger is the ability to create a network that gives our customers more flight options," said Greg Hart, United's senior vice president network. "Numerous communities will gain service as we begin to capitalize on the opportunity to use our combined fleet more efficiently."
[ POSTED OCTOBER 26, 2010 ]
ATA reports 9th consecutive month of revenue growth
The Air Transport Association of America on Oct. 19 reported that passenger revenue rose 19 percent in September 2010 compared to the same month in 2009, marking the ninth consecutive month of revenue growth. Miles flown by paying passengers increased approximately 7 percent while the average price to fly one mile rose 11 percent. Passenger revenue improved 13 percent domestically and 32 percent in international markets. A sample of U.S. airlines saw cargo traffic, as measured in cargo revenue ton miles, rise 14 percent year over year—5 percent domestically and 22 percent internationally—in August 2010; September 2010 cargo data are not yet available.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 26, 2010 ]
Southwest pilots tentatively OK adding 737-800
The Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA) reached a tentative agreement with Southwest Airlines Oct. 14 on the addition of the Boeing 737-800 to Southwest’s fleet. The company’s intent to convert current Boeing 737-700 aircraft orders to the larger 737-800s adds a new airframe to the fleet and reopens the pilots' contract; this agreement codifies pay, work rules, and other issues related to the larger aircraft. It includes a single pay rate for the 737, a profitability-based raise added to the hard 2-percent raise in 2011, a contract extension with an amendable date extended to September 2012, and a profitability-based raise in 2012. "This allows our pilots to take a leadership role in tying our pay to the company's profitability and investing in our future," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA president. "We are still evaluating the needs for training, scheduling, aircraft configuration, and other regulatory considerations," said Mike Van de Ven, Southwest’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. Members of SWAPA, which represents more than 5,900 Southwest pilots, will vote on the tentative agreement during November. The executive board of the Transport Workers Union Local 556, representing more than 9,700 Southwest flight attendants, unanimously approved a tentative agreement; a ratification vote is under way.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 19, 2010 ]
Flexjet earns safety group’s highest ranking
Flexjet on Oct. 19 became the first fractional jet ownership company to receive the Air Charter Safety Foundation’s Industry Audit Standard (IAS) registration. "Safety is our highest priority at Flexjet, and with stringent training standards and biannual pilot training, we surpass even the toughest FAA requirements," said Flexjet President Fred Reid. The IAS requirements surpass those of the ARG/US Platinum rating, which Flexjet regularly receives, and require the operator to develop and implement a safety management system. It also assesses crew training, manuals, dispatch, and other processes for safety and regulatory compliance. Flexjet said it also has earned 11 consecutive FAA Diamond Awards for maintenance-training excellence.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 19, 2010 ]
Boeing’s first 747-8 Intercontinental coming together
Boeing moved closer to completing assembly of the first 747-8 Intercontinental on Oct. 15 as mechanics in Everett, Wash., joined the forward and aft fuselage sections with the wing and center section. The 747-8 fuselage is 250 feet, 2 inches long—18 feet, 4 inches longer than that of the 747-400, allowing 51 additional seats and 26 percent more cargo volume. The bigger Boeing will accommodate 467 passengers in a typical three-class configuration. "Final body join is an important milestone for the 747 program," said Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager of Airplane Programs in Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We now have the first real look at the size and distinctive shape of the 747-8 Intercontinental." The new, high-capacity 747 will offer lower operating costs and enhanced environmental performance. Boeing has orders for 109 747-8 Freighter and Intercontinental airplanes; the first delivery is scheduled for late 2011.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 19, 2010 ]
American recalls 250 pilots
American Airlines announced Oct. 6 that it is sending recall notices to 250 pilots and 545 flight attendants. The airline said that its efforts to capitalize on new international flying and business opportunities with British Airways and Iberia, continued strengthening of its cornerstone hubs, and preparation for its pending alliance with Japan Airlines contributed to the recall of the nearly 800 furloughed employees. The first 25 pilots will be recalled in mid-November, and the recalls will continue at a rate of approximately 30 per month. Flight attendant recall notices will be sent in phases. "The company is pleased to be recalling approximately 800 total pilots and flight attendants to help capitalize on our business goals, as well as to meet our staffing needs in the coming months,” said AMR Chairman and CEO Gerard Arpey. “This is exactly the kind of growth we're hoping to achieve with our network strategy, and my hope is that trends like this will continue."
[ POSTED OCTOBER 12, 2010 ]
Virgin America celebrates new West Coast service to Orlando
Sir Richard Branson planned to marshal a Virgin America Airbus A320 aircraft to the gate at Orlando International Airport on Oct. 13, celebrating the California-based airline’s new service from the West Coast to Central Florida. Branson then planned to greet passengers as they disembarked from the flight, arriving from Los Angeles International Airport. The carrier’s Orlando service began Oct. 6. Virgin America, which was launched in 2007, is a U.S.-owned and -operated airline, and is an entirely separate company from Virgin Atlantic. Branson's Virgin Group is a minority investor in Virgin America.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 12, 2010 ]
American gets OK for LAX-Shanghai service…
American Airlines announced Oct. 7 that the U.S. Department of Transportation had granted it the authority and frequencies needed to begin new service between Los Angeles and Shanghai. Daily flights will begin on April 5, 2011, using 247-seat Boeing 777 aircraft. “These new flights will enrich American's customer service offering to China and will expand American's schedule at Los Angeles International Airport, one of its five cornerstone cities,” the airline said in a statement.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 12, 2010 ]
…while United applies to serve same route
United Airlines on Oct. 12 filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to begin daily nonstop service between the airline's Los Angeles hub and Shanghai. Continental Airlines also applied for authority to place its code on United-operated flights between the two cities. United plans to begin flying the route on May 20, 2011, using Boeing 777 aircraft. United currently serves Shanghai with daily flights from Chicago and San Francisco; Continental provides daily service to Shanghai from New York/Newark.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 12, 2010 ]
United, Continental merger closes
Continental Airlines and United Air Lines, Inc. are now wholly owned subsidiaries of United Continental Holdings, Inc., the new company announced Oct. 1 United Continental Holdings’ 16-member board includes six independent directors from both Continental and United; Glenn Tilton, who will serve as non-executive chairman of the board; Jeff Smisek, who will serve as president and chief executive officer; and two union directors, Stephen R. Canale and Capt. Wendy J. Morse. "This is a true merger of equals, bringing together two strong companies and positioning us to succeed in a dynamic and highly competitive global aviation industry," Tilton said. "Drawing from both companies, we have an excellent board of directors and a strong management team, and we have the industry's best people to deliver on the promise of great products and service for our customers, career opportunities for our people, and consistent returns for our shareholders." On the same day, United Continental Holdings’ common stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol UAL.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 5, 2010 ]
Celebration too soon, pilot union says
While Capt. Wendy Morse, chairman of the Air Line Pilots Association council at United, and Capt. Jay Pierce—her counterpart at Continental—expressed support for the airlines’ merger, they also offered words of caution. "While the jovial mood of the new United management team is understandable, the pilots of the combined airline are not yet ready to celebrate. We will welcome the true closing of the merger, which will happen only after a joint collective bargaining agreement with the pilots is achieved and the two pilot groups are combined,” Morse said. “Then and only then will management be able to call this merger a success.” Continuing negotiations between the joint negotiating committee and the company are key to achieving the merger’s promised synergies, she said, but much work remains. "No issue carries more weight than scope and the cessation of outsourcing. The pilots of Continental and United Airlines believe the time is right to correct the wrongs of the past with solutions that benefit our pilots. We believe it is our responsibility, to our pilots and to our passengers, to remind management that the business of an airline is to fly—not to outsource flying to the lowest bidder or to merely act as a ticket agent. Airline pilots throughout the world are taking notice of our stance and fight for job and scope protections."
[ POSTED OCTOBER 5, 2010 ]
American Eagle launches LaGuardia-Minneapolis, Miami-Gainesville service
American Eagle Airlines launched four daily nonstop flights between New York LaGuardia and Minneapolis-St. Paul International airports on Oct. 1. Eagle flies the route with Canadair CRJ-700 aircraft. On the same day, American Eagle began nonstop service between Miami International Airport and Gainesville Regional Airport in Gainesville, Fla. Eagle operates the service twice daily with 64-seat Super ATR aircraft. Also on Oct. 1, American Eagle parent American Airlines applied to offer nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport and Pudong International Airport in Shanghai, China, beginning April 5, 2011. The daily service would be provided by 247-seat Boeing 777 aircraft.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 5, 2010 ]
Air Lease finalize order for up to 60 Next-Generation 737s
Boeing and new leasing company Air Lease Corporation announced Oct. 4 that they finalized an order for up to 60 Next-Generation 737-800s. The order, first announced at the Farnborough Airshow in July, is for deliveries through 2017. In addition to 54 firm orders, the deal includes six additional airplanes to be reconfirmed. "With this large and long-term commitment, we'll be able to offer our clients a most economical, fuel-efficient, and versatile airplane, suitable for a variety of profitable missions," said Steven F. Udvar-Hazy, chairman and CEO of Air Lease Corporation. Air Lease Corporation, based in Los Angeles, Calif., was founded in February 2010, and is led by two airline industry veterans, Udvar-Hazy and John L. Plueger. Lessors for the new Boeings were not announced.
[ POSTED OCTOBER 5, 2010 ]
Southwest to purchase AirTran
Southwest Airlines announced Sept. 27 that it plans to acquire all of the outstanding common stock of AirTran Holdings, Inc., the parent company of AirTran Airways. Including AirTran’s existing debt and capitalized aircraft leases, the transaction’s value is approximately $3.4 billion. Closing is subject to the approval of AirTran stockholders and receipt of certain regulatory approvals. “The acquisition of AirTran represents a unique opportunity to grow Southwest Airlines’ presence in key markets we don’t yet serve and takes a significant step towards positioning us for future growth,” said Gary C. Kelly, Southwest’s chairman, president, and CEO. Kelly said the move allows Southwest to enter new markets, including Atlanta and Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., as well as to extend its presence in such key markets as New York LaGuardia, Boston Logan, and Baltimore/Washington. Based on current operations, the combined organization would have nearly 43,000 employees and 685 aircraft—599 Boeing 737s and 86 Boeing 717s, with an average age of approximately 10 years. The company did not announced any job cuts, noting that both carriers are lean operations; it said that given normal turnover, the expanded Southwest will need to hire approximately 2,000 employees a year simply to maintain the status quo—and growth will require more people, not fewer. Net annual synergies are expected to exceed $400 million by 2013. One-time costs related to the acquisition and integration of AirTran are expected to be in the range of $300 million to $500 million.
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 28, 2010]
Southwest pilots focus on merger implications
With Southwest Airlines poised to acquire AirTran Airways, its pilot union—the Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA)—is preparing to negotiate a transition agreement and to incorporate pilots from the AirTran seniority list onto Southwest’s seniority list. "We are cautiously optimistic of the potential fleet growth opportunity connected to this acquisition and its subsequent effect on our pilots' career progression," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA president. The union said it has retained an investment banking firm to provide counsel and expertise to value the transaction, identify synergies created by the transaction, and advise during bargaining efforts. "We will be working with the AirTran group and both sides have many challenges ahead,” Kuwitzky said. “SWAPA will work to make this transition as smooth as possible for our pilot group.”
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 28, 2010]
Continental, United stockholders approve merger
Continental Airlines announced Sept. 17 that its stockholders voted overwhelmingly to approve the merger of United Airlines with and into Continental at a special meeting held in Houston. More than 98 percent of the votes cast and 75 percent of shares outstanding were voted in favor of the transaction. Stockholders of United parent UAL Corporation voted the same day to approve the merger, which is currently expected to close by Oct. 1, 2010. Continental and United announced an all-stock merger of equals on May 3, 2010. The companies have received clearance on the airlines' proposed merger from the United States Department of Justice and the European Commission.
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 21, 2010]
U.S. airlines post 8th consecutive month of revenue growth
The Air Transport Association of America (ATA) on Sept. 20 reported that passenger revenue rose 17 percent in August 2010 compared to the same month in 2009, marking the eighth consecutive month of revenue growth. The pace of improvement slowed from the 25-percent and 20-percent year-over-year gains realized in June and July, respectively. Approximately 1 percent more passengers traveled on U.S. airlines in August, while the average price to fly one mile rose 14 percent. International passenger revenue rose 27 percent, led by a 44 percent gain in trans-Pacific markets. Cargo traffic, as measured in cargo revenue ton miles, rose 15 percent year over year in July 2010—3 percent domestically and 24 percent internationally.
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 21, 2010]
Horizon, Teamsters agree on pilot contract
Horizon Air and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) jointly announced Sept. 17 that, with the assistance of federal mediation, they have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract for the airline's 673 pilots. The IBT expects to be ready to present the details of the agreement to Horizon's pilots by late October. The ratification vote would take place immediately following. Details about the contract terms will not be released until the conclusion of the voting process. "The union leadership and negotiators worked very hard to finalize the provisions in this tentative agreement. I believe that it adequately provides for the company's needs and also recognizes the very high level of service and professionalism the Horizon pilots provide," said Joe Muckle, Airline Professionals Association Teamsters Local 1224 president. After years of negotiations, in January 2010 both Horizon and the IBT requested federal mediation to work through the remaining open items. In June, an agreement in principle was reached, and the negotiation teams spent the subsequent months finalizing the details. Under federal law, airline contracts don't expire; existing contracts remain in effect after the amendable date until a new contract is agreed to by the negotiating teams and ratified by represented members.
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 21, 2010]
Power surge grounds one 787 test aircraft
Boeing suspended flight tests involving one of its five 787 Dreamliner test aircraft when one of its engines experienced a power surge before takeoff. Bloomberg.com reported on Sept. 15 that the surge occurred Sept 10 in Roswell, N.M. A Boeing spokeswoman said it was too early to know whether the new airliner’s test schedule would be affected; the delivery of the first customer 787 has been delayed six times over the past two years. Depending on the pace of repairs, Bloomberg.com said, the airplane could resume flight testing as soon as Sept. 18.
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 21, 2010]
Virgin America reports 36-percent revenue increase
Virgin America on Sept. 10 reported its financial results for the second quarter of 2010. The airline reported revenues of $184 million, a 36-percent increase over the second quarter of 2009. Revenue per available seat mile increased by 23 percent year-over-year. The airline said that it essentially broke even on an operating basis for the quarter, even as it continued to expand significantly; its $430,000 operating loss was an improvement of 92 percent over the second quarter of 2009. Adjusting for the noncash unrealized losses on its fuel derivatives, the airline would have reported operating income of $10 million and a 5.6-percent operating margin for the quarter. Virgin America continued to hedge in order to help manage fuel price volatility; and has hedged 85 percent of its projected fuel requirements for the second half of 2010 at an average crude oil price of $82 per barrel. In July 2010, the airline announced plans to order 40 new aircraft.
[POSTED SEPTEMBER 14, 2010]
Allegiant adding seats to MD-80 fleet
Allegiant Travel Company announced Sept. 13 that it will add 16 seats to each of its 150-seat MD-80-series aircraft, bringing the total number of saleable seats to 166. The company currently operates 48 MD-80s and owns nine more, which it plans to place in service in 2011 and 2012. Allegiant also operates three 130-seat MD-87 aircraft that will not be reconfigured. The $50 million project involves substantial cabin redesign work that includes removal of galleys. "These added seats will allow us to grow our capacity with the least amount of risk," said Andrew C. Levy, Allegiant’s president. "This project effectively increases our capacity by 11 percent while lowering our cost per seat." Although the capacity increase will not create any pilot jobs, Allegiant will add a fourth flight attendant to crews, required for the 166-seat aircraft.
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 ]
Continental, technicians reach contract agreement
Continental Airlines announced Sept. 10 that it has reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which represents Continental aircraft maintenance technicians and related employees. The IBT is expected to hold a ratification vote in the coming weeks. The agreement covers approximately 3,700 Continental employees.
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 ]
Air cargo hits 100-percent screening deadline; eyes next hurdle
Air cargo shippers and forwarders say the industry still has a long way to go in screening shipments after meeting a government mandate to screen 100 percent of all cargo on U.S. passenger aircraft by Aug. 1, according to a report in The Journal of Commerce. Many concerns, such as the handling of high-value or sensitive items, were alleviated with the TSA's successful Certified Cargo Screening Program, which has so far authorized 1,041 companies to screen their own cargo. Although the TSA estimates 60 percent of inbound international cargo already is being scanned, an integrated, equivalent international screening network is the next step in supply chain security, with a target date of 2013.
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 ]
Comair to cut fleet by more than half, reduce staffing
In a memo sent to employees Sept. 1, Comair—the Northern Kentucky-based regional carrier owned by Delta Air Lines—announced that it will eliminate all of its aging 50-seat Canadair Regional Jets by 2012, reducing its fleet of nearly 100 aircraft to only 44. The smaller fleet will consist entirely of 70-seat CRJ-700 and 76-seat CRJ-900 aircraft. Comair President John Bendoritis said all departments will be impacted by an accompanying reduction in staffing; the company currently employs about 2,600 people. Although specific job cuts have not been announced, sources indicate the smaller company will employ only 500 pilots and that furloughs will start in spring 2011. Delta reportedly has been exploring the sale of Comair since 2007, and sold two other wholly owned regional airlines in July. Mesaba was sold to Memphis, Tenn.-based Pinnacle Airlines Corp. for $62 million and Compass was purchased by St. Louis-based Trans States Holdings, Inc. for $20.5 million. According to an August report by Bloomberg News, SkyWest expressed interest in Comair, but no offer has been announced. SkyWest subsidiary Atlantic Southeast Airlines in August announced an agreement to purchase ExpressJet Holdings, Inc. SkyWest currently operates more than 1,500 flights each day for United Express, Delta Connection, and AirTran.
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 ]
Boeing projects $700 billion North American commercial market
Boeing forecasts that air carriers in North America will take delivery of about 7,200 new airplanes over the next 20 years, representing an investment of $700 billion. New-airplane deliveries in Canada and the United States will be driven largely by the need to retire older, less fuel-efficient single-aisle airplanes and regional jets, as airlines replace them with new-generation, more-efficient models. "North America is a large, mature market, and we expect passenger traffic for the region to grow at a modest rate of 3.4 percent," said Randy Tinseth, vice president of marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, who released Boeing's 2010 North America market outlook Sept. 2 in Montreal. Because of the need for rapid, frequent coast-to-coast and interregional transportation, nearly three-quarters of these deliveries will be single-aisle airplanes, he said, with single-aisle airplanes growing from 56 percent of the North American fleet to 71 percent by 2029. Taking aircraft retirements into account, the North America fleet will grow from 6,590 airplanes today to about 9,000 airplanes by 2029. Within the North America market, Boeing sees a demand for 1,180 new, efficient twin-aisle airplanes such as the 787 Dreamliner. Twin-aisles will account for 16 percent of total airplane demand in the region over 20 years. Boeing also forecasts declining demand for regional jets in North America as airlines shift to more fuel-efficient turboprops or larger jets.
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 ]
Southwest pilots discuss 737-800 acquisition
Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association representatives met with airline officials Sept. 1 to discuss the company’s intent to convert current Boeing 737-700 aircraft orders to the larger 737-800s. The meeting continued ongoing talks about potential acquisition of the 737-800. "One of the primary concerns for our pilots is job security, and the issues associated with adding aircraft with increased capacity while the company is actively retiring planes with less capacity," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA president. "We share the company's enthusiasm for the added revenue this aircraft can provide. However, we must address the aircraft's effects on pilot productivity."
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 ]
787 test aircraft seek hot, cold conditions
Four of the five Boeing 787 flight test airplanes are conducting remote test operations, the manufacturer announced Sept. 3. ZA001, the first 787, will spend a week testing rejected takeoffs in Roswell, N.M. The second 787 is conducting high-latitude and cold-weather testing at Keflavik Airport in Iceland. "We've been watching for the right weather conditions for some time," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. "The team was happy to see the forecast in Iceland met our needs and we deployed to Keflavik earlier this week." ZA003 was in Yuma, Ariz., where temperatures were exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and ZA004 has spent an extended time operating out of Victorville, Calif., measuring external pressure distributions throughout the flight envelope. Meanwhile, artificial ice shapes have been affixed to the leading edges of the wings and horizontal and vertical stabilizer of the fifth 787 to verify the airplane's performance in the presence of ice; natural-ice testing has already occurred. The 787 flight test fleet has conducted more than 1,650 hours of flying over more than 540 flights.
[ POSTED SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 ]
United, Continental merger passes antitrust review
United Airlines and Continental Airlines announced on Aug. 27 that the United States Department of Justice has completed its antitrust review and closed its investigation of the airlines’ pending merger. “We are pleased to have achieved this critical milestone and look forward to our respective stockholders’ votes next month, following which we expect to be on track to close our merger by October 1,” said Glenn Tilton, UAL Corporation chairman, president, and CEO. Continental and United announced an all-stock merger of equals on May 3, 2010. Both companies have scheduled special stockholder meetings on Sept. 17 for approval of the merger. They expect the transaction to close by Oct. 1, subject to stockholder approvals and customary closing conditions. The European Commission cleared the proposed merger in July.
[ POSTED AUGUST 31, 2010 ]
Southwest planning to launch Newark service
Southwest Airlines will gain access to Newark Liberty International Airport when it leases 36 slots that currently are held by Continental Airlines, the airlines announced Aug. 27. The lease, contingent upon the closing of the Continental/United Airlines merger by Nov. 30, would allow Southwest to operate up to 18 daily roundtrip flights at Newark, New Jersey; some flights would begin in March 2011 and all would be operating by June 2011. The slots are spread throughout the day. “We plan to enable that service starting next March through continued flight schedule optimization using our existing fleet,” said Bob Jordan, Southwest’s executive vice president of strategy and planning. The lease agreement is intended to address U.S. Department of Justice concerns related to Continental’s proposed merger with United, Continental said. Continental and United currently operate 442 daily roundtrip flights into and out of Newark Liberty. Details on what cities Southwest will serve from Newark and on what dates that service will begin have not yet been determined.
[ POSTED AUGUST 31, 2010 ]
Mexicana, related airlines suspend operations
Nuevo Grupo Aeronáutico, S.A. (Grupo Mexicana) announced Aug. 27 that flight operations for all three of its airlines—Mexicana Airlines, MexicanaClick, and MexicanaLink—would be suspended until further notice at noon Saturday, Aug. 28. The company said the move was a result of the group’s delicate financial situation when it changed owners a week ago, compounded by failure to reach agreements that would allow for the capitalization of its three airlines. Mexicana Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection on Aug. 2, saying at the time that the situation would not affect MexicanaClick and MexicanaLink operations. “Today’s decision is a painful one for the 8,000-strong Grupo Mexicana family, but we will continue seeking out ways of securing the company’s long-term financial viability,” the company said in a statement.
[ POSTED AUGUST 31, 2010 ]
U.S. airlines post 7th consecutive month of revenue growth
The Air Transport Association of America on Aug. 19 reported that passenger revenue, based on a sample group of carriers, rose 20 percent in July 2010 compared to the same month in 2009, marking the seventh consecutive month of revenue growth. The pace of improvement slowed from the 25 percent year-over-year gain realized in June, however. Approximately 1 percent fewer passengers traveled on U.S. airlines in July, while the average price to fly one mile rose 17 percent. International passenger revenue rose 36 percent, led by a 52-percent gain in trans-Pacific markets. "Demand for air travel remains well above last year's depressed levels, but the industry is mindful of cautionary notes about the health of the overall economy," said ATA President and CEO James C. May. U.S. airlines saw cargo traffic, as measured in cargo revenue ton miles, rise 19 percent year over year—8 percent domestically and 28 percent internationally—in June 2010; July cargo data is not yet available.
[ POSTED AUGUST 24, 2010 ]
Delta flight attendants to vote on union representation
The National Mediation Board on Aug. 17 granted the Association of Flight Attendants-Communication Workers of America's recent request to declare that the Delta/Northwest merger has created a single transportation system. The declaration triggers a representation election and, the union said, more than 20,000 flight attendants at the merged carrier will for the first time have the opportunity to vote for AFA-CWA representation under new, more democratic rules. "Finally, our voice will be heard and fully respected under strong democratic procedures, the same way that other elections are decided in our country," said Toni Weinfurtner, a AFA-CWA activist. Now the union has 14 days to provide evidence that there is enough interest to warrant an election. Proof of interest is demonstrated by a combination of AFA-CWA's premerger Northwest membership plus signed authorization cards from premerger Delta employees totaling at least 35 percent of all eligible flight attendants, AFA-CWA said.
[ POSTED AUGUST 24, 2010 ]
Southwest considering 737-800
Southwest Airlines is thinking about adding the Boeing 737-800 to its domestic fleet and plans to make a decision about the longer airplane before the end of the year, employees were told Aug. 13 by Mike Van de Ven, executive vice president and chief operating officer. "While the aircraft could introduce additional complexities to our operation, we believe our existing network could be significantly enhanced by converting some of our future 737-700 deliveries to 737-800s,” he said, noting that its additional seating capacity would be advantageous for longer-haul flying while potentially reducing unit costs. “The -800 also can give Southwest scheduling flexibility by allowing for additional capacity in high-demand, slot-controlled, or gate-restricted markets,” he said.
[ POSTED AUGUST 17, 2010 ]
Customer service pays for American employees
For the sixth consecutive quarter, American Airlines Customer Experience Rewards—a part of the airline’s annual incentive plan—has paid out to employees. On Aug. 13 American awarded $10.4 million to approximately 69,000 employees for achieving customer satisfaction goals in the second quarter of 2010. So far this year, American has paid employees $21.7 million in customer satisfaction incentives; in 2009, the company paid out more than $45 million. The incentive plan rewards employees with up to $100 per month for meeting or exceeding customer-satisfaction and on-time performance goals.
[ POSTED AUGUST 17, 2010 ]
Porter Airlines growing adding New York flights, new airplanes
After obtaining four additional slots at Newark Liberty International Airport, Porter Airlines will operate 11 daily roundtrip flights to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, beginning Sept. 20. The airline currently operates nine daily roundtrips. Connecting service via Toronto with many of Porter's other Canadian destinations will be improved by adding more flights throughout the day, the company said. Canada's third largest scheduled carrier, Porter currently operates a fleet of 20 Bombardier Q400 turboprops, configured to seat 70 passengers. The company recently ordered four Q400 NextGen aircraft, with options for six more.
[ POSTED AUGUST 17, 2010 ]
Boeing pilots can learn 787 in less than a week
The FAA has granted Boeing Training & Flight Services provisional approval for its 787 Dreamliner pilot training courses. Pilots will be able to transition to the new airplane in five to 20 days, depending on their experience. Boeing 777 pilots can qualify to fly the 787 in as little as five days, given the high level of commonality between the two airplane types. The 787 pilot training program uses a suite of training devices that includes a full-flight simulator, flight training device, and desktop simulation station. Currently there are eight training suites at Boeing Training & Flight Services locations in Tokyo, Singapore, Shanghai, Seattle, and Gatwick, England.
[ POSTED AUGUST 17, 2010 ]
SkyWest to acquire ExpressJet
SkyWest, Inc. announced Aug. 4 that it will merge with ExpressJet Holdings, Inc. Under the agreement, Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc.—SkyWest's wholly-owned subsidiary—will acquire all of ExpressJet’s outstanding shares of common stock for $6.75 per share, for a total purchase price of approximately $133 million. ExpressJet operates ExpressJet Airlines, Inc. Both companies’ boards have approved the merger agreement, which is subject to regulatory approvals and the approval of ExpressJet stockholders. ExpressJet will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Atlantic Southeast, and the airlines eventually will be combined under a single operating certificate. Operating headquarters of the combined company will be in Atlanta. A new, long-term capacity purchase agreement Atlantic Southeast has negotiated with Continental Airlines is expected to become effective upon completion of the ExpressJet merger. The combined airline anticipates a significant continued operational presence in each of the hubs ExpressJet currently serves, including Continental's hubs in Houston, Newark/New York, and Cleveland, as well as United Airlines hubs at Chicago O'Hare and Washington Dulles. The transaction is expected to close during fourth quarter 2010.
[ POSTED AUGUST 10, 2010 ]
Citing financial, labor situations, Mexicana Airlines reduces operations
Compania Mexicana de Aviacion (CMA/Mexicana Airlines), a subsidiary of Nuevo Grupo Aeronautico (NGA), on Aug. 2 announced that its “financial and labor situation is no longer sustainable” and filed for bankruptcy protection; the airline was continuing to operate on a reduced flight schedule. NGA CEO Manuel Borja said that Mexicana Airlines’ situation will not affect the operations of MexicanaClick and MexicanaLink, two other NGA subsidiaries that operate domestically. Despite investments of more than $300 million in credit lines and resources put up by NGA, MexicanaClick, and MexicanaLink—and restructuring and cost-cutting that the company said has saved some $800 million—Mexicana Airlines said it has not been able to offset its crew costs. Although the airline's operating costs excluding crew labor costs are 30 percent lower than the average for legacy airlines in the United States, Mexicana said, its pilots earn 49 percent more than the average wage paid by legacy airlines in the United States and 185 percent more than the average pilots flying Airbus A320s for other low-cost Mexican airlines like Volaris or Interjet. Mexicana said its flight attendants also earn significantly more than those at other airlines.
[ POSTED AUGUST 10, 2010 ]
GOL says crew-schedule glitch disrupted operations
A change to the system that schedules pilots and flight attendants at Latin American low-fare carrier GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. resulted in flight delays and cancellations, the company said Aug. 5. The change caused some GOL crewmembers to reach their flying-hour limit during the weekend. The company said operations had returned to normal by Aug. 4 and that it had implemented the necessary remedial measures to prevent a recurrence. GOL operates 860 daily flights.
[ POSTED AUGUST 10, 2010 ]
Airfares climb back to 1999 levels
The average first-quarter domestic one-way fare in 2010, net of taxes and fees, was $154.91, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation. While airfares are up from 2009, they have returned to 1999 levels, when the average one-way fare was $153.88. Compared to 2008 prerecession levels, fares grew only 0.4 percent, lagging the 2.3-percent jump in the U.S. Consumer Price Index during that same period. "Travelers certainly appreciate a bargain, and today's airline customers are getting just that—a bargain. They continue to benefit from low airfares, especially considering the rising costs of food, energy, and other goods purchased by U.S. consumers," said Air Transport Association President and CEO James C. May. "For airlines to add jobs and develop new and improved service, it is critically important that they return to profitability." May noted that while airfares appear to be stabilizing, the airline industry has been in serious distress throughout the past "lost decade."
[ POSTED AUGUST 3, 2010 ]
Southwest pilots praise legislation’s passage
Southwest Airlines pilots on July 30 applauded House and Senate passage of H.R.5900, the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010. This bill moves forward key safety provisions that Southwest pilots have long advocated, including higher standards for pilot training, support for safety advocacy programs, and a new pilot fatigue rule. "This important legislation strengthens aviation safety, a longtime priority for SWAPA and Southwest Airlines," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA president. House Transportation Chairman James L. Oberstar (D-Minn.) and aviation subcommittee chairman Jerry F. Costello (D-Ill.) introduced H.R.5900. Cosponsored by Rep. John L. Mica (R-Fla.), and Rep. Tom Petri (R-Wis.), this bipartisan effort will require all pilots to hold an FAA airline transport pilot certificate before flying for a Part 121 carrier. H.R.5900 requires the FAA to promulgate a rule changing flight and duty time limits within one year. For more information on the measure, see AOPA Online.
[ POSTED AUGUST 3, 2010 ]
TSA reaches milestone in passenger-aircraft cargo screening
The Transportation Security Administration on Aug. 2 announced that the airline industry has met a key requirement of the 9/11 Act by screening 100 percent of air cargo carried on domestic passenger aircraft. TSA worked closely with the cargo and aviation industries to accomplish this congressional mandate by the Aug. 1, 2010, deadline. "Screening all cargo on domestic passenger aircraft adds another layer to our already robust security system and ensures that TSA is doing everything possible to ensure the safety of air travel," said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. TSA is also continuing its work to improve cargo security on passenger flights originating in other countries.
[ POSTED AUGUST 3, 2010 ]
Alaska announces new flights to Hawaii, Mexico
Alaska Airlines will inaugurate nonstop service between Bellingham, Wash., and Honolulu, Hawaii, on Jan. 7, 2011. Alaska currently flies between Bellingham and Las Vegas while its sister carrier, Horizon Air, offers Bellingham-Seattle service. The flights will be operated with Boeing 737-800 aircraft. In addition, the carrier will begin thrice-weekly service between San Jose, Calif., and Los Cabos, Mexico, on Nov. 20, subject to government approval. The nonstop flight will operate on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Boeing 737-700 aircraft will be used for the new route.
[ POSTED AUGUST 3, 2010 ]
American Eagle launches three new routes from New York
American Eagle Airlines on July 29 announced that new daily nonstop service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and Norfolk International Airport, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, and Indianapolis International Airport would begin Nov. 18. Eagle will operate the service with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets. American Eagle operates more than 1,500 daily flights to nearly 160 cities throughout the United States and adjacent countries.
[ POSTED AUGUST 3, 2010 ]
Virgin America plans to triple fleet size with order for 40 A320s
Virgin America on July 22 announced that it plans to order 40 new Airbus A320 aircraft, with options for 20 more. The new aircraft would be delivered from 2013 through 2016, with 10 firm orders per year on average, and options for 20 additional aircraft in 2017 and 2018. Virgin America projects that its fleet will grow from its current 28 aircraft to 90 aircraft by 2016. "At a time when most carriers are contracting and shedding jobs, we're pleased to be growing," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "The low operating costs, cabin comfort, and carbon-efficient design of our all new Airbus fleet will continue to fuel our growth and success in the North American market." The San Francisco-based airline currently serves 10 cities, with expansion to Orlando, at least one more U.S. city, and two destinations in Mexico planned by this winter. The airline expects to grow by three to four additional new destinations a year from 2011 to 2016.
[ POSTED JULY 27, 2010 ]
American exercises options for 35 Next Generation 737s
Boeing and American Airlines, Inc., announced July 21 that the airline has exercised options to purchase an additional 35 Next-Generation 737-800s. The order is part of American’s ongoing fleet renewal plan, replacing MD-80s with fuel-efficient Next-Generation 737s. The 737-800 is 35 percent more fuel efficient on a per-seat-mile basis than the MD-80s it will replace. "The 737-800 provides additional amenities for our customers while helping to reduce our operating and fuel costs and lessen our impact on the environment," said Virasb Vahidi, chief commercial officer for American Airlines. The 35 new orders build on an order for 84 737s that began arriving in 2009. American currently expects a total of 195 737-800s in its single-aisle fleet by the end of 2012.
[ POSTED JULY 27, 2010 ]
Delta seeks expanded service to Brazil
Delta Air Lines on July 23 applied to the U.S. Department of Transportation to expand its service between the United States and Brazil, which would allow increased flights between its Detroit hub and Sao Paulo. Delta has received approval to begin twice-weekly service between Detroit and Sao Paulo on Oct. 21. The newly requested flights, if approved, would allow that service to be operated five days per week. The flights will be operated with 216-seat Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
[ POSTED JULY 27, 2010 ]
Boeing forecasts 30,000 new airliners over next 20 years
Boeing forecasts a $3.6 trillion market for new commercial airplanes over the next 20 years, as world economies rebound and strong demand for new and replacement aircraft spurs growth. The Boeing 2010 Current Market Outlook, released July 15 in London, foresees a market for 30,900 new commercial passenger and freighter airplanes by 2029. “We expect the world economy to grow above the long-term trend this year," said Randy Tinseth, vice president of marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "As a result, both passenger and cargo travel will grow this year. Airline revenue and yields are up, but fuel prices remain volatile." Passenger traffic is expected to grow at a 5.3-percent annual rate over the long term, driven by economic growth from regions with diverse airplane needs. The Asia-Pacific region shows the most robust market gains, with China leading the way. "Today, about one-third of all airline traffic touches the Asia-Pacific region, and as a result of the growth in this market, by 2029 almost 43 percent of all traffic will be to, from, or within the region," Tinseth said. The North American and European markets will see substantial demand for replacement airplanes as they retire aging, less-efficient jets.
[ POSTED JULY 20, 2010 ]
Embraer sees 6,875 smaller jets in next 20 years
Embraer on July 19 announced its 20-year forecast for commercial aircraft in the 30- to 120-seat segment, a category that serves low- and medium-density markets. Among the key trends are a 4.9-percent world average annual increase in air traffic over the next 20 years; North America and Europe will see average growth around 3.5 percent per year. More stringent limits on noise and emissions will mandate the development of cleaner-burning fuel and quieter aircraft. Embraer forecasts that the size of the world fleet of 30- to 120-seat jets will increase from 4,285 aircraft in 2009 to 7,780 in 2029. During this period, 51 percent of the new deliveries (3,495 aircraft) will be added to support current growth, and 49 percent will replace aging equipment. The company foresees global demand for 6,875 new jets in this category over the next 20 years. The estimated market value of these new orders is approximately $200 billion. Of this total, delivery of 2,895 jets is expected between 2010 and 2019, with the remaining 3,980 deliveries between 2020 and 2029.
[ POSTED JULY 20, 2010 ]
Boeing official sees rebounding market
Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh said at the Farnborough International Airshow July 19 that the company is working hard to stay ahead of the competition as the market begins to rebound. "The market is clearly coming back and I feel very confident about how we are positioned to regain—and retain—leadership in this business," Albaugh said. Citing more than 3,304 unfilled orders for Boeing commercial airplanes as of June 30, he said customers continue to show their preference in the marketplace for the Next-Generation 737 and the 777. He also confirmed that, in alignment with Boeing's strategy to continuously innovate and improve its products, there are attractive near-and-long-term options for product improvement. "Boeing will set a strategic direction with respect to further developing the 737 and new airplane designs within a few months. Our decision will be determined by the best way to meet the future needs of our customers," he said.
[ POSTED JULY 20, 2010 ]
Delivery of first 787 could slip
Just days before its new 787 was to make its international debut at Farnborough, Boeing issued a "cautionary note" that first delivery of the new airliner might be delayed. Because instrumentation configuration changes have been slower than planned, and because of horizontal-stabilizer inspections, Boeing said delivery could move into early 2011, Air Transport Intelligence reported on Flight Global. The amount of possible delay was characterized as “a few weeks” into January.
[ POSTED JULY 20, 2010 ]
Alaska takes top honors in Aviation Week study of airline performance
Alaska Air Group ranked first among mainline/legacy carriers in Aviation Week’s Top-Performing Airlines study, designed to show which airline management teams have best capitalized on opportunities during the global economic crisis. Allegiant Travel Co. is the highest ranked in the low-cost/niche category, and Australia's Regional Express Holdings is the top regional carrier. Strong management, regardless of size, is a primary distinguishing factor for top carriers, the magazine said. "Airlines with the leadership ability to maintain strong liquidity, good financial health, cost discipline, and a focus on efficiency are those in the best position to take advantage of recovering demand," said Michael Lowry, Top-Performing Airlines project manager. "It is not about size—being nimble is paying off for Alaska Airlines and others." Rounding out the top ten mainline/legacy airlines are Singapore Airlines Ltd.; Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd.; LAN Airlines SA; Qantas Airways Ltd.; Hawaiian Holdings Inc.; Deutsche Lufthansa AG; Turk Hava Yollari AO; SAS AB; and Copa Holdings, SA. Following Allegiant in the rankings of low-cost/niche airlines are Ryanair Holdings plc; Air Arabia PJSC; Aegean Airlines SA; AirAsia Berhad; Hainan Airlines Co. Ltd.; WestJet Airlines Ltd.; Southwest Airlines Co.; AirTran Holdings, Inc.; and Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA. Regional Express Holdings, Ltd. is the highest ranked regional carrier. Launched in 1996, Aviation Week’s Top-Performing Companies studies identify strong and weak performers in the aerospace, defense, and airline industries. Proprietary metrics include scores in five categories: liquidity, financial health, fuel cost management, earnings performance, and asset utilization. A breakdown of airline scores and rankings is online.
[ POSTED JULY 13, 2010 ]
Shippers brace for increased cargo screening requirement
On Aug. 1, the Transportation Security Administration will move to a 100-percent screening requirement for air freight carried on passenger flights. The jump from screening 75 percent of all cargo shipments is greater than it might appear. "As of Aug. 1, 100 percent means 100 percent, and there is no way around it," said Brandon Fried, executive director of the Airforwarders Association. In 2008, U.S. passenger flights carried 7.3 billion pounds of air freight, approximately 42 percent of which originated outside of the United States. This high percentage originating beyond the TSA’s would undoubtedly affect the feasibility of meeting an Aug. 1 deadline, the Government Accountability Office said in a late-June report. Challenges include delays in TSA certification of scanning equipment, trust issues regarding international protocol differences, and shippers' concerns over sensitive or high-value cargo, The Journal of Commerce reported [http://www.joc.com/cargo-airlines/shipping-security-takes]. Regardless, the shipping industry is preparing for increased requirements. Pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer are getting their own facilities TSA certified in order to handle security for sensitive cargo in house. Business may shift to freighter operators, which have different screening rules than passenger aircraft, or forwarders with approved screening programs, the magazine said. "You're going to see a lot of shippers relying on their logistics providers," said David Wilt, global supply chain security manager for Xerox.
[ POSTED JULY 13, 2010 ]
Continental announces flights to Cairo, Crested Butte
Continental Airlines on July 6 announced plans for nonstop flights between Newark Liberty International Airport and Cairo, Egypt, beginning May 18, 2011, subject to government approval. Cairo would be the 72nd international destination the carrier serves from its New York hub. Continental also announced new winter service between its Houston hub and Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport in Colorado, beginning Dec. 16. The service will operate through April 3, 2011. On May 3, Continental announced that it agreed to merge with United Airlines in a merger of equals.
[ POSTED JULY 13, 2010 ]
Delta sells Mesaba, Compass subsidiaries
Delta Air Lines, Inc. on July 1 announced it will sell two of its wholly owned regional airline subsidiaries, Mesaba and Compass Airlines. Mesaba has been sold to Memphis-based Pinnacle Airlines Corp. for $62 million, and Compass has been sold to St. Louis-based Trans States Holdings, Inc. for $20.5 million. Pinnacle currently is one of Delta's largest regional carriers. The transactions are not expected to result in any changes to flight schedules or locations served. Under the terms of the agreements, Mesaba and Compass will continue to serve Delta customers with long-term, extendable agreements ranging from seven to 12 years depending on aircraft type. For now, Pinnacle said it will continue to operate three subsidiaries—Pinnacle Airlines, Colgan Air, and Mesaba. "Over the longer term, we anticipate that we can enhance efficiency and growth opportunities for our airlines and our people by reorganizing around two operating airlines," said Phil Trenary, president and CEO of Pinnacle Airlines Corp. "Our intent is to combine the regional jets under Pinnacle Airlines and the turboprops under Mesaba Aviation. However, there are many complex issues to be addressed, and this will take time."
[ POSTED JULY 6, 2010 ]
Boeing finalizes 787-9 Dreamliner configuration
Boeing on July 1 announced completion of the firm configuration for the 787-9 Dreamliner. The company reached this milestone after years of collaboration with airline customers and partners to determine the optimal configuration for the new stretch version of the Dreamliner. "Firm configuration means the airplane's structural, propulsion, and systems architectures are defined and not changing," said Mark Jenks, vice president of 787-9 development for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. The first 787-9 delivery is scheduled for late 2013. A slightly bigger version of the 787-8, the airplane will seat 250 to 290 passengers and have a range of 8,000 to 8,500 nautical miles.
[ POSTED JULY 6, 2010 ]
Delta flight attendants closer to union vote
Delta flight attendants moved closer to a vote for union representation under new rules July 1 when the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) asked the National Mediation Board to declare that the Delta/Northwest merger has created a single transportation system, triggering a representation election. Northwest Airlines flight attendants are represented by AFA-CWA, while Delta flight attendants are not represented. A U.S. District Court on June 25 rejected challenges to the new rules by the Airline Transport Association and Delta Air Lines. Delta executives have stated that they are ready to move forward with union elections, the AFA said. Under the new rules, the majority of voters will decide the representation issue; flight attendants who do not cast ballots will not be counted as "no" votes. Once the NMB declares that the merged airlines are operating as a single carrier, which is already the case for Delta's pilots, an election date will be set to determine if AFA-CWA will be the flight attendants' exclusive bargaining agent. The carrier employs nearly 21,000 flight attendants.
[ POSTED JULY 6, 2010 ]
Continental, United pilot talks stall
The pilots of United and Continental, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), said June 25 that they have run into a roadblock while negotiating a transition agreement with the management of their airlines. The transition agreement is an important first step toward a joint collective bargaining agreement and integrated seniority list, which would allow the new merged carrier to secure a single operating certificate and reap the full potential of the merger. "It is unbelievable that contract talks have stalled so early in the process and for such a basic item as a transition agreement," said Capt. Jay Pierce, chairman of the ALPA unit at Continental. "We are stalled because of management’s unwillingness to compromise on matters that have little financial impact.” Capt. Wendy Morse, union chairman for United pilots, said time is of the essence to show the employees and the world that this merger will be successful. “Management still has the opportunity to recognize the value pilots bring to this process, and it will be necessary they correct this in a timely manner.”
[ POSTED JUNE 29, 2010 ]
Southwest launches nonstop Boston-Philadelphia service
Southwest Airlines began new nonstop service between Boston Logan International Airport and Philadelphia International Airport, starting June 27 with five daily nonstops. The carrier will add three additional daily nonstops on Aug. 14. To accommodate Southwest’s growth in Boston, Massport—which owns and operates Logan—built an additional gate at the airline’s current location in Terminal E.
[ POSTED JUNE 29, 2010 ]
American to begin new flights to Brazil
The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded American Airlines rights to fly 11 new flights per week between the United States and Brazil beginning Nov. 18, the carrier announced June 24. American will offer daily nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Rio de Janeiro, and will operate four flights per week—on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays—between Miami and Brasilia. The carrier will operate 225-seat Boeing 767-300 aircraft between New York and Rio de Janeiro. Between Miami and Brasilia, it will fly 182-seat Boeing 757 aircraft.
[ POSTED JUNE 29, 2010 ]
Pilots and CEOs of Delta, Air France, KLM sign historic agreement
The chief executive officers of Delta Air Lines, Air France, and KLM met with pilot union leaders from their respective airlines June 21 to sign a six-way Joint Venture Protocol, which recognizes that a cooperative, productive relationship is essential to the success of the corporations’ Joint Venture Agreement established in May 2009. The agreement establishes the parties’ intent to further develop the transatlantic route structure, increase the venture’s profitability, and strengthen the respective airline hubs. “This is a milestone agreement, and I believe it will serve as a template for future labor/management engagement in the industry’s globalization arena,” said Capt. Lee Moak, chairman of the Delta Master Executive Council of the Air Line Pilots Association. “Recent joint venture agreements at other properties have alienated labor by treating labor…as just another cost to be managed. In today’s global marketplace, that is a formula for disaster. Instead, when the long-term interests of management and labor are aligned, it makes much more sense to engage through a professional working relationship for the benefit of all parties.” The agreement establishes a balance of flying between the carriers, and calls for the corporations to provide their respective pilot unions with “detailed historical and projected operating and financial information on the JV” on a regular basis as well as periodic meetings to share information on the joint venture’s progress.
[ POSTED JUNE 22, 2010 ]
Flight attendants seek greater protection in United/Continental merger
Patricia A. Friend, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) International, testified before two Congressional committees June 16 on the impact that a merger between United Airlines and Continental Airlines would have on flight attendants and other workers at the combined carrier. Friend reminded Congressional leaders that airline employees are the most vulnerable in merger situations, with the most to lose and the least protections. “Since the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, there has been little attention paid to the extreme upheaval that mergers create for the thousands of airline employees who find themselves unemployed or whose lives are disrupted,” testified Friend. Current negotiations for United’s more than 16,000 flight attendants—who for nearly six years have been working under a collective bargaining agreement negotiated while the company was in bankruptcy—also are threatened, she said. The airline’s management “needs to focus on protecting their employees in this merger and providing some economic relief now,” Friend added.
[ POSTED JUNE 22, 2010 ]
Dreamliners log 1,000 flight hours
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner flight test fleet passed 1,000 hours of testing on June 16. The program estimates that it is about 40 percent through the test conditions required to certify the first version of the all-new jetliner. “More work remains but we are seeing excellent progress in flight test,” said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Even more important than the hours we’ve logged are the test conditions we have completed. The team is being very efficient in getting the data we need.” On the same day, the first 787 powered by General Electric engines, the airplane referred to as ZA005, completed its first flight—a 3-hour, 48-minute flight over the state of Washington. The 787 made its first flight on Dec. 15, 2009. Follow the flight test program’s progress online.
[ POSTED JUNE 22, 2010 ]
Qatar Airways orders more than 200 jets
Qatar Airways is investing heavily in new aircraft, new routes, and airport infrastructure in anticipation of next year’s opening of the New Doha International Airport in Qatar. The airline has doubled its fleet size in five years and has launched four new routes this year from its Doha hub—to Bengaluru (Bangalore), Copenhagen, Ankara, and Tokyo—with three more scheduled to begin in June. Qatar has placed orders for more than 200 aircraft worth over $40 billion. It currently operates a fleet of 82 aircraft that is set to rise to 120 by 2013. Its orders include 80 Airbus A350s, 60 Boeing 787s, and 32 Boeing 777s; deliveries of the latter began in November 2007. It also has ordered five twin-deck Airbus A380s, scheduled for delivery beginning in 2012.
[ POSTED JUNE 22, 2010 ]
Pilot strike gounds Spirit Airlines
Following the 30-day cooling-off period that began when the National Mediation Board declared an impasse in negotiations between Spirit Airlines’ pilots and airline management, Spirit’s pilots went on strike June 12. The airline cancelled all flights for June 12 through Wednesday, June 16. “Spirit Airlines is continuing to work with our pilot union to reach a fair and equitable agreement that ensures the long-term stability of the company, and allows us to continue offering you the ultra low fares you have come to know and love,” the company said in a statement on its website. ALPA turned down a compounded average 29-percent pay increase that, when combined with annual step increases, would increase annual compensation by 47 percent over five years, Spirit said in a press release. The company said that under its offer, pilots would have retained a four-day-off break between trips—a feature not found in any other ALPA contract, and one the carrier did not favor—and received a $3,000 signing bonus, as well as an 8-percent 401(k) match that would increase to 9 percent in year four. “It is surprising to me that ALPA would turn down this generous offer that would have paid senior captains over $200,000 per year,” said Spirit Airlines President and CEO Ben Baldanza. “I am concerned that our employees are being used in a broader political game that may not be in the interest of their careers or their families. This deal should be about Spirit and Spirit only, not about the pilots whose contracts are under negotiation at other ALPA carriers, but it would appear other forces have intervened.” The airline said its offer to ALPA addressed all of the union’s major requests.
[ POSTED JUNE 15, 2010 ]
Delta Shuttle launches Chicago service
Delta Air Lines on June 14 launched hourly Delta Shuttle service with 11 weekday flights between New York-LaGuardia and Chicago-O’Hare International airports. "Adding Chicago-O’Hare to the Delta Shuttle network is part of our ongoing commitment to expand service for our most frequent travelers between New York and the country’s top business markets," said Jeff Robertson, a Delta vice president. Delta is the only airline offering shuttle services to New York’s top three business markets: Chicago, Boston, and Washington, D.C., the airline said in a press release. During the past four years, Delta has added 40 new destinations from LaGuardia and JFK combined.
[ POSTED JUNE 15, 2010 ]
American, Eagle begin new nonstops from Dallas
American Eagle Airlines, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, on June 10 launched nonstop jet service between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Fayetteville Municipal Airport in Fayetteville, N.C. Eagle will operate two daily round trips using 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 jets. On the same day, American Eagle began nonstop service between Dallas/Fort Worth and Augusta Regional Airport in Augusta, Ga. Two daily round trips are being flown with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets. On June 10, American Airlines inaugurated a new nonstop flight between Dallas/Fort Worth and San Salvador, El Salvador, using 148-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The carrier already offers two daily nonstops to El Salvador from Miami International Airport, and one daily flight from Los Angeles International Airport.
[ POSTED JUNE 15, 2010 ]
Cape Air to start new Missouri route
Cape Air’s Midwest expansion continues with the carrier’s newest route between Kirksville, Mo., and Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. Beginning on Sept. 17, Cape Air plans to offer three daily round trips between Kirksville and St. Louis, said Cape Air President and CEO Dan Wolf. Cape Air flies more than 610,000 passengers annually to destinations including New England, New York, the Caribbean and Florida, the Mid-Atlantic, the Midwest, and Micronesia. Its fleet of sixty-one Cessna 402s and two ATR-42s operate up to 565 flights a day.
[ POSTED JUNE 15, 2010 ]
Horizon Air, pilots enter mediated negotiations
The pilots of Horizon Air, Inc.—represented by the Airline Professionals Association Teamsters Local 1224—have entered into mediated contract negotiations with Horizon under the oversight of the National Mediation Board. The union said Horizon and its pilots have been negotiating a collective bargaining agreement for more than four years and have been unable to conclude negotiations. Under the Railway Labor Act (RLA), mediated negotiations are the first step in resolving conflict between the two parties. Horizon Air recently experienced strong financial improvements and, while its operation remains profitable, seeks pay and benefit concessions from pilots, the union said, adding that the carrier is attempting to negotiate directly with the pilots and their families, calling into question Horizon’s willingness to negotiate in good faith. Horizon recently mailed information setting forth its financial condition addressed to each pilot’s families but not enough postage was applied on the envelope, leaving pilots responsible for the postage due. "The recent conduct by Horizon has created a toxic atmosphere where the morale of the pilot group has deteriorated," said Teamsters Local 1224 President Joe Muckle. "This is unfortunate because these are the most experienced pilots in the regional airlines. They do not want a job action, they want a contract." Horizon currently serves 48 cities throughout the western United States, Mexico, and Canada.
[ POSTED JUNE 8, 2010 ]
Delta customers can book commercial flights with private jet travel
Delta Air Lines and its wholly owned subsidiary, Delta AirElite, are introducing a service to allow customers to book scheduled commercial flights and on-demand private jet service in a single transaction using a prepaid Air Elite account. Delta said it is the only U.S. airline offering customers combined access to commercial and private jet service. “Today’s airline customer wants more travel flexibility, extensive reach, and competitive pricing—all from a single source,” said Jim Segrave, president of Delta AirElite. Earlier this year, Delta AirElite doubled its fleet size with the acquisition of Kinston, N.C.-based Segrave Aviation.
[ POSTED JUNE 8, 2010 ]
Hawaiian marks inaugural Airbus flight
Hawaiian Airlines on June 4 celebrated the inaugural flight of its new, wide-body Airbus A330-200 aircraft. Hawaiian Flight 2 departed Honolulu at 1:15 p.m. and was scheduled to arrive in Los Angeles at 9:35 p.m. The inaugural return flight of the A330 departed Los Angeles on June 5 as Flight 1 at 8:35 a.m. and arrived in Honolulu at 11:25 a.m. “This is a historic day for Hawaiian Airlines that’s been years in the making and sets us on a new course to improve our service to customers, grow our company, and expand the range of destinations we serve on both sides of the Pacific,” said Mark Dunkerley, Hawaiian’s president and CEO. The 294-seat A330 adds 30 more seats per flight to Hawaiian’s popular twice-daily Los Angeles-Honolulu route as the peak summer travel season begins. The airline plans to introduce up to 27 new Airbus aircraft into its fleet by the end of the decade and is initially leasing three new A330s, and has a purchase agreement with Airbus to acquire seven A330s starting in 2011 and six A350XWB-800 (Extra Wide-Body) aircraft starting in 2017. Hawaiian has options for an additional five A330s and six A350s.
[ POSTED JUNE 8, 2010 ]
Honeywell examining volcanic ash effects on engines
Honeywell announced May 27 that it will be analyzing the effects of ash ingestion in two of its TPE331 turboprop engines used on an airplane that gathered scientific data during recent volcanic eruptions and flights into the subsequent ash cloud over Europe. The Dornier 228 accumulated 10 hours of operation in the volcanic ash cloud and an additional 22 hours of operation in the outer zone of the cloud. Its engines have been returned to Phoenix for analytical teardown and evaluation. "The industry has little information on the effects of volcanic ash ingestion in turbine engines and we hope the data we gain from this effort will help define operational impact to the engine and any damage to components," said Ronald J. Rich of Honeywell Aerospace. "This examination could yield a basis for future turbine-engine performance and maintenance service data." The airplane, operated by the Natural Environment Research Council in the United Kingdom, collected particulate data during flights into the clouds. The data includes composition of the debris along with navigational and engine operational data.
[ POSTED JUNE 1, 2010 ]
UPS aircraft mechanics seek release from mediation
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters’ Airline Division has asked the National Mediation Board to release United Parcel Service’s aircraft mechanics from contract negotiations after more than four years of bargaining without reaching an agreement. "Our company has made substantial profits since 2006, even considering the economic downturn last year, yet UPS has been unwilling to make a reasonable settlement offer, especially on the questions of job security for our members against foreign outsourcing and protecting our health benefits," said Robert Combine, a UPS aircraft mechanic and president of Teamsters Local 2727 in Louisville, Ky. Under the terms of the Railway Labor Act, the IBT has asked the board to release UPS and its aircraft mechanics from mediation and make a proffer of binding arbitration. Either party may reject that offer of arbitration, which would then trigger a 30-day "cooling off" period before a potential strike. "UPS's aircraft mechanics voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike if the company refused to make a reasonable contract offer. We do not wish to go out on strike. But UPS will leave us no choice if it insists on its unreasonable position," said Combine, adding that UPS pilots, represented by the Independent Pilot Association, support their position.
[ POSTED JUNE 1, 2010 ]
Continental announces first 787 Dreamliner service
Continental Airlines on May 26 announced plans to begin nonstop Boeing 787 flights to Auckland, New Zealand, on Nov. 16, 2011, subject to government approval. It’s the first announcement of a specific, planned route for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner; Continental has firm orders for 25 of the new-generation airliners. Continental would become only the third airline flying nonstop between North America and New Zealand. At approximately 7,400 miles, the new route will be the longest from the carrier’s Houston hub. Continental plans to operate the route on a daily basis, with five-times-weekly service during certain periods in the first year of operation. Deliveries of Continental’s 787s are expected to begin in August 2011; the aircraft will have 228 seats, including 36 flat-bed BusinessFirst seats.
[ POSTED JUNE 1, 2010 ]
AirTran expands San Antonio service, adds Huntsville
AirTran Airways on May 27 began new nonstop service from San Antonio International Airport to both Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport and Orlando International Airport on May 27. The carrier has offered direct flights from San Antonio to its Atlanta hub since June 2008. Also on May 27, AirTran launched daily nonstop service between Huntsville International Airport and both Baltimore-Washington and Orlando international airports.
[ POSTED JUNE 1, 2010 ]
UPS begins pilot furloughs
For the first time in its 103-year history, UPS is furloughing pilots. The company announced plans in February to lay off at least 300 of its airline pilots—about 11 percent of the roster. Since April 2009, UPS’s 2,800 pilots, represented by the Independent Pilots Association, had preserved these jobs through voluntary cost-cutting programs. The first 54 pilots were laid off on May 23, and an additional 116 furlough notices are expected before the end of the year. "What makes this furlough truly unfortunate is that our pilots took it upon themselves to give up pay and benefits to produce $117 million in guaranteed savings for UPS, enough to keep these 300 pilots employed well into 2011," said Capt. Robert Thrush, IPA president. "Even though the economy has begun to turn around, UPS anticipates a very gradual recovery and a continued need for belt-tightening," UPS Airlines President Bob Lekites said in a Feb. 8 statement. "This is a painful decision for our people, but one that is right for the ongoing health of our business. But we haven't given up on this process. We continue to go well beyond our contractual obligation to seek a 'win-win' solution to avert furloughs." However, Thrush said UPS told the IPA that it was unwilling to continue with current voluntary savings programs, or consider others, and then began the furlough process. Earlier this year, UPS announced it was streamlining its entire domestic U.S. small package structure, eliminating 1,800 management and administrative positions across the country.
[ POSTED MAY 25, 2010 ]
ATA reports double-digit increase in April passenger revenue
The Air Transport Association of America (ATA) reported May 21 that passenger revenue, based on a sample group of carriers, rose 12.5 percent in April 2010 versus the same month in 2009, marking the fourth consecutive month of revenue growth. Approximately 0.5 percent more passengers traveled on U.S. airlines in April, while the average price to fly one mile rose nearly 14 percent. International passenger revenue rose 15 percent, led by a 37-percent gain in transpacific markets. "The April jump in passenger revenue is a positive sign, and one showing that the U.S. industry is recovering gradually from last year's severely depressed levels," said ATA President and CEO James C. May.
[ POSTED MAY 25, 2010 ]
American Airlines donates MD-80 to Miami aviation school
American Airlines donated a retired MD-80 jet to George T. Baker Aviation School on May 20, making it one of the only accredited aviation schools in the country to have a commercial airliner on school grounds. American partnered with Odebrecht USA to move the 39-ton plane from Miami International Airport to the school, using a 500-ton crane equipped with a 400-foot telescoping boom to lift it over two roads. The move took place around 1 a.m. Students at the school have already gained experience with the MD-80, prepping it for the move by taking off the wing tips and jet engines. American is gradually replacing its MD-80 series with more fuel-efficient aircraft such as the Boeing 737-800.
[ POSTED MAY 25, 2010 ]
ATA challenges union representation rule
The Air Transport Association of America (ATA) on May 17 filed a legal challenge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, responding to the National Mediation Board (NMB) issuance of a voting rule change for union representation. The rule “dramatically changes the procedures by which airline and rail industry union representation elections are conducted. This new rule turns 75 years of history on its head without compelling justification,” ATA said in a statement. "ATA believes that the National Mediation Board failed to identify any material change in circumstances to support the new election procedure—a procedure that it last rejected only two years ago.” The association said the present election procedure “has served the public interest in avoiding disruptions to the vital national aviation and rail transportation systems,” and said the change is both disappointing and puzzling.
[ POSTED MAY 21, 2010 ]
Growth seen for low-cost cariers in Asia Pacific
Driven by booming economies, high Internet usage as a distribution channel, low-cost labor, easy access to debt, and lower lease rentals, the Asia Pacific low-cost carrier (LCC) market is slated for strong growth in the years to come, according to recent analysis from Frost & Sullivan. Favorable macroeconomic indicators and the prosperous inbound tourism market have buoyed prospects for this sector. With rising disposable incomes, the demand for aviation services will pick up steam. Moreover, the increasing average load factor will rev up profitability for airlines operating in this space. Frost & Sullivan reports that the LCC market in Asia Pacific is expected to see an increase in the number of passengers from 116.0 million in 2008 to 217.0 million in 2012, a compound annual growth rate of 16.9 percent. The total aircraft fleet is expected to increase from more than 450 in 2008 to more than 830 in 2012. “Decreasing lease rentals and aircraft market values are major triggers for growth in the LCC market in the Asia Pacific,” says Frost & Sullivan Financial Analyst R. Madusudanan. “The decrease in lease rentals/value of aircraft reduces the aircraft holding cost of airlines and enhances the profitability of LCCs.” Although the outlook for the market looks bright, there are some challenges reining in market progression. High expenditure on fuel and oil has impacted the profitability of LCCs, and the lack of infrastructure has adversely impacted market participants.
[ POSTED MAY 21, 2010 ]
Flexjet, Korean Air form marketing alliance
In the first North American alliance between a fractional jet provider and an international airline, Flexjet fractional owners who use Korean Air for overseas travel will now have access to premium services, the company announced May 13. As part of the newly created Flexjet Connect program, operated by U.S. air carrier Jet Solutions, Korean Air passengers can secure private point-to-point travel throughout the United States on a fleet of high-performance business jets. "This first-of-its-kind collaboration with Korean Air adds value to our program offerings, while further expanding our global reach," said Fred Reid, Flexjet president. As part of the marketing alliance, Flexjet fractional owners will receive incentives to purchase first class tickets on Korean Air when traveling between the Americas and East Asia.
[ POSTED MAY 21, 2010 ]
Delta to add 240 pilots
Delta Air Lines has announced plans to hire about 240 pilots beginning in late August. “Right now we anticipate we’ll need an additional 240 pilots based on forecasted retirements, along with a planned increase in pilot block hours, so that we are adequately staffed for the summer 2011 schedule,” Delta’s Steve Dickson wrote May 4 in a Flight Operations update. An improving economy is changing the carrier’s network plan, he said; instead of a reduction in widebody-aircraft flying and a push down to narrowbody aircraft, the company plans to increase the amount of widebody flying. “With this announcement of hiring comes the opportunity for furlough bypass pilots to return to Delta and for other pilots who desire employment with us, the opportunity to join our ranks.” Delta’s minimum pilot hiring criteria are available online. Applications are being accepted through Airline Apps Web site.
[ POSTED MAY 11, 2010 ]
DOT taps American, Delta, and Hawaiian for service to Haneda
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced May 7 that it proposes awarding four routes to Tokyo’s downtown Haneda Airport—to American Airlines from New York, Delta Air Lines from Los Angeles and Detroit, and Hawaiian Airlines from Honolulu—when the airport’s fourth runway becomes operational later this year. The potential new routes were negotiated in connection with the U.S.-Japan Open-Skies agreement, which allows U.S. carriers four daily round-trip flights to Haneda. U.S. carriers serving Tokyo have been limited to using Narita Airport, which is considerably farther from the city. Also applying for Haneda slots were Continental Airlines, Continental Micronesia, and United Airlines. If DOT’s proposed decision is made final, the selected carriers must begin Haneda operations by Jan. 29, 2011.
[ POSTED MAY 11, 2010 ]
Teamsters applaud rule change as more fair to airline employees
Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa on May 10 applauded the National Mediation Board for changing a federal rule that now makes it fairer for airline and railway employees to form unions. The rule change, which affects more than 570,000 airline and railway employees, allows workers to form a union if a majority of the employees who vote support it. Under the old rule, workers sitting out an election were viewed as casting ’no’ votes. “By changing the rule, the NMB has leveled the playing field, giving workers a fairer chance to form unions," Hoffa said. The rule change brings union elections up to modern standards of democratic election law, he added.
[ POSTED MAY 11, 2010 ]
Delta adding flights to expand New York presence
Delta Air Lines announced May 11 that it will add flights between New York City and key global business markets, with nearly 30 cities slated for new or expanded service by fall. International service will be expanded between John F. Kennedy International and London-Heathrow, Brussels, Shannon, Manchester, Amsterdam, Cairo, Istanbul, Milan, Moscow, Nice, and Athens. Domestic service will be increased between New York-LaGuardia and Nashville, St. Louis, Norfolk, Richmond, and Kansas City; and between JFK and San Antonio, Cleveland, Montreal, Charlotte, Toronto, Baltimore, and Richmond. The expanded service is part of the carrier’s efforts to become the preferred airline in New York City. During the past four years, Delta has added 40 new destinations from LaGuardia and JFK combined.
[ POSTED MAY 11, 2010 ]
American to begin service between Chicago and Beijing
American Airlines announced May 10 that it will begin nonstop service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Beijing Capital International Airport on May 25, with four flights per week. Beginning July 3, American will offer daily departures from both cities. "Beijing Capital International Airport is a slot-constrained airport and we recognize the challenges the Chinese aviation authorities face in determining slot assignments," said Craig Kreeger, American’s senior vice president-international. “We will continue to work with them to secure more appropriate arrival and departure times in the future."
[ POSTED MAY 11, 2010 ]
United, Continental to merge
Continental and United announced a definitive merger agreement on May 3. What the carriers described as an all-stock merger of equals would create the world’s largest airline, with service to 370 destinations around the world. Jeff Smisek, Continental’s chairman, president and chief executive officer, will be CEO and a member of the board of directors; Glenn Tilton, chairman, president and CEO of UAL Corp., will serve as non-executive chairman of the combined company’s board. United Continental Holdings, Inc. will operate the airline under the United Airlines name and aircraft will carry the Continental livery, logo, and colors. Marketing will combine the brands of both companies. The new company’s corporate and operational headquarters will be in Chicago, and it will maintain a significant presence in Houston, which will be the combined company’s largest hub.
Employees will benefit from improved long-term career opportunities and enhanced job stability by being part of a larger, financially stronger and more geographically diverse carrier that is better able to compete successfully in the global marketplace, the companies said. They believe the effect of the merger on front-line employees will be minimal, with reductions coming principally from retirements, attrition, and voluntary programs. The merger, which has been approved unanimously by the boards of both companies, is conditioned on approval by the shareholders of both companies, regulatory approval, and customary closing conditions.
[ POSTED MAY 4, 2010 ]
Pilots, flight attendants, machinists react to announcement
It is important to remember that the integration of two airlines is always a difficult challenge, the chairmen of the Air Line Pilots Association’s master executive councils at United and Continental said in a joint statement May 3. “The support of the pilots is pivotal in determining whether a merger is successful or not, as will be the case with this merger of Continental and United,” said United Capt. Wendy Morse and Continental Capt. Jay Pierce. “While there is potential for this transaction to create a truly great airline, there are also risks involved… The futures of our pilots must also be more secure going forward—both in our careers and in retirement. We have sacrificed too much through years of concessions, furloughs, pension freezes and terminations to accept unwarranted risk, and any risk requires reward… We look for a commitment by the management of the new United Airlines to work with pilot leadership to minimize economic risk and maximize our career security by promptly and fairly negotiating a new, joint pilot contract.
The announced merger is expected to create value for shareholders, executives, and the traveling public. As critical stakeholders in the merged airline, the pilots of both United and Continental fully expect to share in that value, in both the short and long terms.” Flight attendants at United Airlines, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO, said May 3 that a new contract with pay, benefit, and work rule improvements must be concluded before they can consider support for the announced merger. "A Continental/United combination must have what many past mergers failed to achieve: broad employee support,” said Robert Roach Jr., general vice president of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. “The machinists will work closely with members of Congress and the Departments of Transportation and Justice to ensure that if a merger is approved, it will not be at the expense of workers at either carrier.”
[ POSTED MAY 4, 2010 ]
JetBlue to launch service from Ronald Reagan Washington National
JetBlue Airways announced plans April 28 to serve Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), its third airport in the Washington region, with seven daily nonstop flights to Boston’s Logan International Airport and one daily nonstop flight each to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Orlando International Airport. The new service is set to begin Nov. 1, 2010.
Washington National will become JetBlue’s 62nd destination. The carrier said that the new service to Boston, complementing five daily nonstop flights from Baltimore-Washington International and six daily flights between Boston and Washington Dulles International, it will be the largest carrier for flights between Boston and the Washington, D.C., region with 18 daily departures.
[ POSTED MAY 4, 2010 ]
Hawaiian takes delivery of first new A330
Hawaiian Airlines on April 28 began its long-range fleet renewal and expansion program by taking delivery of the first of up to 27 new, wide-body Airbus aircraft that will be integrated into its fleet over the next decade. More than 200 Hawaiian Airlines employees and their guests made the 7,760-mile trip from Honolulu to Toulouse, France, to see the delivery. The new 294-seat A330-200 is scheduled to start service on the Honolulu-Los Angeles route in early June. Hawaiian is leasing three A330s that will join the fleet this year, and has signed a purchase agreement to acquire seven A330s starting in 2011, and six A350XWB-800 (Extra Wide-Body) aircraft starting in 2017. The airline has purchase rights for an additional five A330s and six A350s.
[ POSTED MAY 4, 2010 ]
Continental reportedly eyeing United
An airline analyst thinks that Continental Airlines will make a play for United Airlines, the Philadelphia Enquirer reported last week. United and US Airways reportedly are discussing a merger, but pilot labor issues and overlapping domestic routes make that a “suboptimal scenario,” Stifel Nicolaus airline analyst Hunter Keay said in a client note April 12. United’s pilot union agrees. “For United’s pilots, Continental, rather than US Airways, represents a more logical merger partner for United Airlines,” said United Capt. Wendy Morse, chairman of the United Master Executive Council of the Air Line Pilots Association International. “In light of the recent reports of merger discussions between United Airlines and US Airways, it is our belief, along with many analysts, that a merger between United and Continental would contain less route overlap and greater attainable synergies. These factors would contribute to the protection of pilot careers, lead to long-term security for both airlines’ pilot groups and produce a stronger overall enterprise.” Continental walked away from merger talks with United in 2008. Their combination would result in the world’s largest airline, ahead of Delta Air Lines.
[ POSTED APRIL 20, 2010 ]
Midwest Airlines name retired, cookies retained
Republic Airways Holdings, which purchased Midwest Airlines in July 2009 and Frontier Airlines in October 2009, announced April 13 that the Frontier name will be the face of its unified branded airline. The Midway name will be retired, although Midway’s signature chocolate-chip cookies will be introduced to all Frontier flights this fall. “This decision was an emotional one for everyone involved,” said Bryan Bedford, president, chairman and CEO of Republic Airways Holdings. “While the research showed that customers preferred the Frontier brand, they also expressed a strong loyalty to both brands. As we work to integrate these two brands into a unified Frontier Airlines, you can expect to see a lot of influence from the Midwest brand.” This year the combined airline plans to add 10 new destinations out of its Denver hub and five new destinations out of the Milwaukee hub.
[ POSTED APRIL 20, 2010 ]
ATA supports curbs to speculation in fuel futures
The Air Transport Association of America on April 16 thanked Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) for introducing legislation that would limit manipulation and unchecked speculation in the commodity futures markets. “It is clear that excessive speculation is responsible for current oil prices being 145 percent greater than 2009 lows,” wrote ATA President and CEO James C. May. “Your leadership provides hope to average Americans that our government can help stop the reckless greed on Wall Street.” ATA said the 2008 spike in jet fuel prices was a result of rampant oil speculation. Lincoln’s legislation, the Wall Street Transparency and Accountability Act of 2010, “will close loopholes, increase transparency, and promote stability in the commodity markets,” resulting in benefits not only for the transportation sector and other industries but for all Americans, May said.
[ POSTED APRIL 20, 2010 ]
United, US Airways reportedly discussing merger
One of the world’s largest airlines could be the result if merger talks between UAL Corporation, parent company of United Airlines, and US Airways lead to a union of the companies, The New York Times’ DealBook reported April 7. United CEO Glenn Tilton has been a leading proponent for industry consolidation, DealBook noted. United and US Airways reportedly are well into merger discussions, and union opposition is a potential hurdle. The two carriers have considered merging before; a 2000 proposal was withdrawn in the face of Justice Department and union opposition. However, the Justice Department allowed the recent merger of Delta and Northwest. No information is available on what a United/US Airways merger could mean to pilot employment, but DealBook said that cost savings are a primary reason behind the merger talks.
[ POSTED APRIL 13, 2010 ]
United, US Airways merger ‘impossible,’ flight attendants say
Leaders of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO (AFA-CWA), representing nearly 21,000 flight attendants at United Airlines, US Airways, and the former America West, responded April 9 to speculation about a potential merger between their airlines. "The notion of joining together two airlines in turmoil is absurd. The track record of management at each of our airlines is abysmal,” union presidents at the three carriers said in a joint statement. “For nearly five years [US Airways] CEO Doug Parker has failed to negotiate a joint flight attendant contract, continuing to operate the airlines separately with disparate treatment of flight attendants at each former airline. Parker has left merger issues unresolved all this time, which hardly qualifies him to consider the possibility of another merger. [United] CEO Glenn Tilton has been clamoring for a merger at any price since he first arrived at United Airlines eight years ago. Flight attendants have expressed no confidence in Tilton to run the airline and they have actively sought his removal as CEO for two years. Without our support a successful merger will be impossible. Our current management needs to address the problems they have created at each airline before contemplating any other joint venture."
[ POSTED APRIL 13, 2010 ]
United pilots oppose merger with US Airways
Capt. Wendy Morse, chairman of the United Master Executive Council of the Air Line Pilots Association, said reports of United’s merger discussion with US Airways have caused “a great deal of consternation” among United’s pilots. “United pilots share the view of many industry analysts and experts that a United merger with US Airways is unlikely to achieve significant synergies,” she said April 8. “The pilots of US Airways and America West have yet to achieve operational integration more than four and a half years after the airlines merged. US Airways pilots face years of litigation as they attempt to work through their operational integration difficulties with America West pilots. United pilots certainly would not benefit by being drawn into that situation.” Morse said United pilots are not opposed to mergers that would benefit their careers. “A merger with US Airways does not appear to come close to meeting that standard. We vehemently oppose any merger that would not lead to a strong and viable United Airlines.”
[ POSTED APRIL 13, 2010 ]
Reduced volume helps improve airline performance
Fewer flights and fewer passengers have translated into better airline performance. For the second consecutive year, the performance of the nation's leading carriers improved, according to the 20th annual national Airline Quality Rating. It was the third best overall score in the 19 years researchers have tracked airline performance. The rankings, released April 12, show that of the 17 carriers rated in both 2008 and 2009, all but Alaska Airlines had improved Airline Quality Rating scores for 2009. The ratings are a joint research project of faculty at Purdue University and Wichita State University. The industry improved in three of the four major elements measured—on-time performance, baggage handling, and customer complaints. Performance declined in denied boardings. An electronic version of the report, with details on each airline, is available online.
[ POSTED APRIL 13, 2010 ]
American, JetBlue swap gates, share codes
American Airlines and JetBlue Airways announced on March 31 an agreement to collaborate at key East Coast gateways. JetBlue customers will connect to American’s international flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Boston’s Logan International Airport, and the plan will offer American’s customers nonstop domestic flight options on JetBlue from those markets. American intends to transfer eight slot pairs at Ronald Reagan National Airport and one slot pair at White Plains, N.Y., to JetBlue—which, in turn, plans to transfer 12 slot pairs at JFK to American. Interline service will be offered only in nonoverlapping markets. JetBlue’s recent transition to the Sabre booking system, along with its new Terminal 5 at JFK, positioned the carrier to take advantage of the partnership opportunity, said Dave Barger, JetBlue’s CEO.
[ POSTED APRIL 6, 2010 ]
Flight Options pilots ratify first labor agreement
Pilots at Flight Options, LLC, the Cleveland-based business jet fractional ownership and jet card program provider, ratified their first labor agreement on March 31. “The new contract with Flight Options is the basis for a strong labor/management partnership between the Teamsters and Flight Options,” said Capt. David Bourne, Teamsters Airline Division director. After more than three years of negotiations, the Teamsters reached a tentative agreement with Flight Options management on January 28. Ballots were counted in Cleveland on March 31; the agreement was ratified by 88 percent of the union’s membership. The new agreement provides for an immediate salary increase, longevity increases, additional paid time off, job security protections, an expansive basing system, and a grievance and arbitration process. “I am particularly proud of the fact that we are able to make a significant financial commitment to our pilots even in this difficult economic environment,” said Michael Silvestro, Flight Options CEO.
[ POSTED APRIL 6, 2010 ]
JetBlue to launch Washington National service
JetBlue Airways on March 31 announced plans to serve Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport beginning in November 2010. The carrier plans to launch at least eight daily departures to select East Coast destinations. JetBlue’s flights from Washington Dulles International and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall airports are not affected. Terms of the slot transfer required for the flight were not disclosed, and regulatory approval is not required for that transaction. Last week JetBlue filed for U.S. Department of Transportation approval of a proposed slot transfer transaction with US Airways that would result in JetBlue securing five additional slot pairs at Reagan National.
[ POSTED APRIL 6, 2010 ]
Cape Air strengthens partnership with American
Cape Air continues to strengthen its new Midwest operation with the launch of a code-sharing agreement with American Airlines. Beginning April 6, American passengers connecting through Lambert-St. Louis International Airport will be able to use their American tickets for Cape Air flights to or from Cape Girardeau, Mo., Quincy, Ill., and Marion, Ill. Cape Air, one of the largest independent regional airlines in the United States, operates 60 Cessna 402s and two ATR-42s. Flying up to 525 flights per day, it carries more than 650,000 passengers a year to destinations in New England, New York, the Caribbean, the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, Florida, and Micronesia.
[ POSTED MARCH 30, 2010 ]
Boeing completes load test on 787 wing
Boeing completed the ultimate-load wing up-bending test on the 787 Dreamliner static test aircraft March 28. During the testing, loads were applied to the airframe that replicate 150 percent of the most extreme forces the airplane is ever expected to experience while in service. During each second of the test, which took more than two hours, thousands of data points were collected to monitor the wing’s performance. The wings were flexed upward by approximately 25 feet. Boeing said initial results of the test are positive, adding that more extensive analysis and review are required before the test can be deemed a success.
[ POSTED MARCH 30, 2010 ]
United flight attendants protest job outsourcing
United Airlines flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO, picketed at Washington-Dulles International Airport to protest a joint venture between United and Aer Lingus that outsources flight attendant jobs. The inaugural flight from Dulles to Madrid, marketed by United and transporting United passengers, departed March 28 using an Aer Lingus jet. “United Airlines’ current management is exploiting the Open Skies agreement with the European Union for profit at the expense of our jobs,” said Greg Davidowitch, president of AFA-CWA at United Airlines. “While thousands of United Airlines flight attendants and pilots are still on furlough, management is siphoning off even more of our jobs to a foreign airline.”
[ POSTED MARCH 30, 2010 ]
Delta, US Airways shed slots at LaGuardia, Reagan National
Delta Air Lines and US Airways on March 22 announced an agreement to transfer to four airlines 12 percent of the takeoff and landing slots involved in a previously announced transaction between the carriers at New York’s LaGuardia and Washington’s Reagan National airports. The transfers are contingent upon FAA approval and the subsequent closing of the originally proposed Delta-US Airways deal. Under their original proposal, announced Aug. 12, 2009, US Airways would have transferred 125 operating slot pairs at LaGuardia to Delta; Delta was going to transfer 42 operating slot pairs at Reagan National to US Airways. With the new six-way agreement, Delta would operate an additional 110 slot pairs at LaGuardia; AirTran, Spirit, and WestJet would obtain five slot pairs each at LaGuardia from Delta; US Airways would acquire 37 slot pairs at Reagan National; and JetBlue would gain five slot pairs from US Airways at Reagan National; in addition, US Airways would gain access to Sao Paulo and Tokyo. On Feb. 9, 2010, the FAA granted conditional approval of the transaction with a requirement that slots be divested at both airports.
[ POSTED MARCH 23, 2010 ]
Boeing ups production rates to meet demand
Boeing announced March 19 that it will accelerate planned production rate increases on both the 777 and 747 to support increasing customer demand in the recovering airplane market. “Market improvement and our conservatively managed approach to production have put us in a position where we see it necessary to raise aircraft output,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh. “Increasing our rate is the right thing to do to support our customers.” The company will accelerate the 777 program’s rate increase to seven airplanes per month (from five per month) by approximately six months, from early 2012 to mid-2011. The 747 program’s planned production rate increase to two airplanes per month (from 1.5 per month) will move from mid-2013 to mid-2012.
[ POSTED MARCH 23, 2010 ]
Delta expands service in New York, Los Angeles
Delta Air Lines announced March 18 that it would expand service in Los Angeles and New York, including a new business shuttle service with 11 daily round-trip flights between New York-LaGuardia and Chicago O’Hare International airports, replacing existing, less-frequent service between LaGuardia and Chicago Midway. The new hourly shuttle service between La Guardia and O’Hare is scheduled to begin June 10, using Embraer 175 jets equipped with 12 seats in first class and 64 seats in economy class. Delta also announced new nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport and Columbus, Ohio; Hartford, Conn.; Raleigh-Durham, N.C.; and San Francisco. The new flights from Los Angeles to San Francisco and Columbus will operate daily, while the Hartford and Raleigh-Durham flights will operate Sunday through Friday, beginning June 10 and using a mix of Boeing 737-800, Airbus A320, and Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft.
[ POSTED MARCH 23, 2010 ]
American Eagle to serve Cheyenne, Pensacola
American Eagle Airlines, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, announced March 22 that it will begin nonstop jet service between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Cheyenne (Wyoming) Regional Airport on July 15, operating two daily nonstops with 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 jets. American Eagle also said that on June 12 it will begin nonstop weekend service between Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport in Florida, using 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets.
[ POSTED MARCH 23, 2010 ]
Continental, dispatchers agreement on new contract
Continental Airlines on March 18 announced that it has reached a tentative agreement on a new four-year labor contract with the Transport Workers Union, which represents Continental dispatchers. The TWU is expected to hold a ratification vote on the contract in the coming weeks. Continental, the world’s fifth largest airline—together with Continental Express and Continental Connection—dispatches more than 2,500 flights each day throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
[ POSTED MARCH 23, 2010 ]
747-8 Freighter achieves initial milestone
Boeing on March 11 completed initial airworthiness testing of the 747-8 Freighter, a milestone that enables test engineers to be on board during future flights and allows the remaining two 747-8 Freighter test airplanes to begin flight test. “The airplane is performing as expected in the initial stages of flight test,” said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager of the 747 program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. The program has conducted 13 flights since the first flight in early February, logging about 33 flight hours. The airplane has been flown to an altitude of 30,000 feet anda speed of Mach 0.65. In the weeks ahead, it will climb above 43,000 feet and reach Mach 0.97; subsequent testing will push the airplane beyond expected operational conditions. The second 747-8 Freighter, RC 522, made its first flight March 15. Boeing has 108 orders for the 747-8; 76 of them are for the cargo version.
[ POSTED MARCH 16, 2010 ]
Alaska begins Hawaii service from San Jose
Alaska Airlines began three-times-per-week service between San Jose, Calif., and Kahului, Hawaii, on March 11; four-times-weekly service between San Jose and Kona started March 12. The new fights are being operated with Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which seat 157 passengers. “The Hawaiian Islands are among our most popular leisure vacation destinations,” said Steve Jarvis, Alaska Airlines’ vice president of marketing, sales and customer experience. “In just two years, Hawaii has become a major part of our route network.” The carrier began serving Hawaii in October 2007. When new flights between Sacramento, Calif., and Maui begin on March 26, the airline will offer 73 flights a week to four Hawaiian islands.
[ POSTED MARCH 16, 2010 ]
JetBlue to launch second daily flight to Kingston
JetBlue Airways announced on March 16 that a second daily nonstop flight to Kingston, Jamaica, from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport will begin June 17. Airbus A320 aircraft, seating 150,are used on the route. The airline, which has been steadily expanding in Jamaica throughout the past year, then will offer up to six departures a day to Jamaica, including two nonstops from JFK to Kingston; two nonstops from JFK to Montego Bay; and one daily nonstop from Orlando to Montego Bay.
[ POSTED MARCH 16, 2010 ]
American Eagle announces service to Tri-Cities
American Eagle Airlines will begin nonstop jet service between Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Tri-Cities Regional Airport in northeastern Tennessee—located between the cities of Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City, Tenn.—on July 2,the carrier announced March 15. Eagle will fly the two daily nonstops with 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 jets.[ POSTED MARCH 16, 2010 ]
“Sully” Sullenberger, Flight 1549 captain, retires
Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, who piloted US Airways Flight 1549 during its emergency water landing on the Hudson River in January 2009, retired from the airline March 3. Flight Attendant Doreen Welsh, who helped guide the flight’s 150 passengers to safety, retired on the same day. Sullenberger, 59, joined US Airways predecessor PSA Airlines in 1980. In addition to his flying duties, he became a member of US Airways’ flight operations safety management team in September 2009. On his final trip for the carrier, he captained Flight 1167 from Fort Lauderdale to his base at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina. He flew the Airbus A321 with First Officer Jeff Skiles, his co-pilot during the Hudson landing, arriving 17 minutes ahead of schedule. Sullenberger has said that he will spend more time with his family in retirement, and plans to write another book. He also plans to continue talking with lawmakers about issues related to pilot safety, including minimum qualifications for pilots and the maximum number of hours pilots are allowed to work in a single day.
[ POSTED MARCH 9, 2010 ]
Allegiant Air buying 757s for new Hawaii service
Allegiant Travel Company announced March 5 that it has signed an agreement to acquire six Boeing 757-200 aircraft for use in new service to Hawaii. Its airline subsidiary, Allegiant Air, LLC, plans to place the first two 757s in service in the fourth quarter of 2010; two more are scheduled to enter service in the first half of 2011, and the final two in the first half of 2012. The six 757 aircraft have been in service with a single European operator since original delivery from Boeing, and are equipped for extended-range twin-engine operations (ETOPS), a requirement for long overwater flights. Allegiant Air expects to launch the service to Hawaii, which it cannot serve with its existing MD-80 fleet, once appropriate regulatory requirements have been met. It currently operates 46 MD-80 aircraft and expects to have 52 MD-80s and two 757s in service by the end of 2010.
[ POSTED MARCH 9, 2010 ]
C-5M Super Galaxy sets world records
A Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy was honored by the National Aeronautic Association on March 4 for setting a new record for greatest payload. A C-5M took off Sept. 13, 2009, carrying 176,450 pounds on a flight that set 41 world records. While that cargo exceeded the weight capability of any other Air Force airlifter, it represented only 62 percent of the C-5M’s maximum payload capability. The C-5M is a modernized version of the earlier A, B, and C models of the C-5, with unique capabilities and increased reliability. The previous payload record of 161,023 pounds was set in 1993.
[ POSTED MARCH 9, 2010 ]
Southwest pilots oppose CVR proposal
The Southwest Airlines Pilots Association on Feb. 24 joined pilots from other airlines in opposing a proposal by Sen. Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) to allow the use of cockpit voice recorder (CVR) data for disciplinary and punitive action against pilots. The NTSB has recommended that carriers be able to “routinely download and analyze all available sources of safety information, as part of their flight operational quality assurance program.” However, the NTSB states specifically that the FAA should “provide appropriate protections to ensure the confidentiality of the de-identified aggregate data, and ensure that this information is used for safety-related and not punitive purposes.” The proposal is a perfect example of a good intention to improve safety that has the opposite effect, said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA president. Southwest pilots fear the NTSB recommendation would jeopardize voluntary reporting program integrity that has been successful in improving airline safety.
[ POSTED MARCH 3, 2010 ]
Delta pilots oppose DOT conditions on slot swap
Delta Air Lines pilots continue to oppose a recent Department of Transportation decision that places onerous and potentially deal-breaking conditions on its tentative approval of a proposal by Delta and US Airways to exchange takeoff and landing slots in New York and Washington, D.C. Delta would transfer 42 pairs of slots at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to US Airways, along with international route authority to Sao Paulo and Tokyo; in exchange, US Airways would transfer 125 pairs of slots at New York’s LaGuardia airport to Delta and leased another 15 pairs. DOT conditioned its approval on the divestiture of 14 pairs of slots at Reagan National (33 percent of the total) and 20 pairs of slots at LaGuardia (16 percent of the total). Those and other conditions “substantially weaken the value of the deal and will likely render it unacceptable to both airlines,” said Capt. Lee Moak, chairman of Delta’s ALPA branch. “DOT’s claims that its actions are designed to protect the consumer are unsupported by critical analysis. The DOT’s decision is not only anti-consumer; it is also anti-labor and anti-business.”
[ POSTED MARCH 3, 2010 ]
United finalizes Dreamliner order
Boeing and United Airlines on Feb. 25 finalized an order for 25 787-8 jetliners. The agreement includes options to purchase another 50 Dreamliners. The order is valued at $4.2 billion at average list prices. United, the launch customer for the Boeing 777, expects to take delivery of the 787s at the same time it begins to retire the Boeing 747s and 767s it is operating on international routes. Boeing announced Feb. 24 that the third 787 has joined the Dreamliner flight-test program. ZA004, the fourth flight-test airplane to be built, took off at 11:43 a.m. local time from Paine Field in Everett, Wash. The program plan called for ZA004 to fly before ZA003 because the data ZA004 is collecting is needed more quickly, both for certification and development of the 787-9. Including United, 57 customers around the world have ordered 876 Dreamliners.
[ POSTED MARCH 3, 2010 ]
ExpressJet increases United Express flying
ExpressJet Holdings, Inc., parent company of regional and charter airline operator ExpressJet Airlines, Inc., announced that it is adding an additional 10 Embraer ERJ-145 regional jets to its agreement with United Airlines to provide service under the United Express brand. ExpressJet said Feb. 17 that it signed the agreement covering 22 ERJ-145 aircraft for United Express service effective December 1, 2009; they replace flying done by other United Express partner carriers whose contracts have expired. The base agreement has an initial term of three years for 11 aircraft and two years for the remaining 11 aircraft, and can be renewed by United up to a total term of five years. In February ExpressJet was operating 16 of the 22 aircraft contracted to United Express. The additional 10 aircraft, added through an amendment to the agreement, will begin operating for United Express on May 1. ExpressJet expects that full-year block hours within its contract flying segment should increase between 10 percent and 15 percent as a result of its flying for United.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 23, 2010 ]
Cincinnati airport posts strong local growth
Local passengers at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) increased almost 21 percent in the third quarter of 2009, compared to the same period in 2008—giving the airport the largest increase in local passenger traffic. Another indicator that the local market has a high demand for air service is load factor (the percentage of seats that are occupied when a flight departs). CVG’s load factors ranged between 73 percent and more than 96 percent during the summer and fall of 2009. “CVG has seen explosive growth in its local passenger base over the last year, helping to fill parking lots and improve related revenue streams,” said John C. Mok, the airport’s CEO. Significant airfare reductions by the carriers serving the airport are one of the primary reasons for the growth in local passengers; for the past two reporting periods, CVG experienced a 38-percent decrease in airfares, the largest decrease among U.S. airports.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 23, 2010 ]
American, Eagle add routes
American Airlines announced Feb. 18 that it will expand its international presence in New York with three new routes between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and San Jose, Costa Rica; Madrid, Spain; and Manchester, England. The new flights to San Jose will begin on April 6, while service to Madrid will start on May 1, and flights to Manchester will begin on May 13. American Eagle Airlines, the regional affiliate of American Airlines, said Feb. 22 that it will begin nonstop jet service between Los Angeles International Airport and Reno-Tahoe International Airport beginning June 10. Eagle will operate three daily flights each way, using 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 jets.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 23, 2010 ]
Southern Air adds two 777 Freighters
Southern Air Holdings, Inc. announced on Feb. 22 the addition of two Boeing 777 Freighters to its fleet. The first 777 was delivered earlier this month and the second will be delivered March 2. “The addition of these two Boeing 777s—the first to join our fleet—is a defining moment in the history of Southern Air that begins the next phase of the company's growth,” said CEO Daniel J. McHugh. Thai Airways International (THAI), one of Asia's fastest-growing cargo carriers, has entered into a block space agreement with Southern Air to utilize the full capacity of the two 777s. THAI Cargo and Southern Air will officially announce the freighter operation in March.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 23, 2010 ]
American resuming service to Haiti
American Airlines will resume service to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, beginning Friday, the carrier announced Feb. 19. The first flight will depart from American’s hub at Miami International Airport at 6:40 a.m. EST, arriving at Port-au-Prince at 8:35. It will mark the first commercial passenger aircraft into Haiti since the earthquake that devastated the country on Jan. 12, American said. The carrier will offer two daily nonstop flights from Miami International Airport, one daily nonstop from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, and four flights per week from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport; the routes will use Boeing 737 and 767 aircraft. Beginning March 12, American Eagle will offer service into Haiti from its San Juan, Puerto Rico, hub. American has served Haiti since 1971 and employs more than 100 people in Port-au-Prince. Since the day after the earthquake, American Airlines and American Eagle have flown 30 relief missions into Haiti.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2010 ]
AirTran launches service to Lexington, Tunica
AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc., launched nonstop service from Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Ky., to both Orlando and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood international airports on Feb. 11. To celebrate the inaugural flight, the airline hosted an event at the airport featuring famous Kentucky resident and Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day. AirTran also announced plans to begin service to Tunica, Miss., effective May 6. AirTran said its flights—to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport aboard Boeing 717 aircraft—will be the first scheduled air service by a major airline to the entertainment and gaming destination.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2010 ]
Continental fleet service workers join Teamsters
Nearly 8,000 Continental Airlines fleet service workers at airports across the country voted by an overwhelming margin to join the Teamsters, Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa said Feb. 12. The National Mediation Board announced the election results Friday. “The excitement among my coworkers is very high because we know that we will have a strong contract that will give us job security and bring fairness to our jobs,” said Jose Ramirez, a Continental employee in Houston. Fleet service workers handle baggage and cargo, and perform other essential jobs, including marshalling jets to terminal gates. Some 3,600 Continental mechanics have been represented by the Teamsters for 12 years.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2010 ]
American, JAL seek antitrust immunity
American Airlines and Japan Airlines (JAL) filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation on Feb. 12 for antitrust immunity that would allow them to forge a closer relationship and implement a joint business agreement governing their flight operations between North America and Asia. The airlines also will notify the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism in Japan of the transaction. “An immunized JBA will benefit the public, offer new competition in the fast-growing Asian aviation marketplace, and strengthen the relationship between American and Japan Airlines, which will support JAL’s successful restructuring,” said Gerard Arpey, American’s chairman and CEO. Antitrust immunity is made possible by the Open Skies accord reached by the United States and Japan in December 2009. When that agreement becomes effective, it will eliminate restraints on competition.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2010 ]
Republic to shutter Lynx Aviation
New Frontier Airlines owner Repulic Airways said this week it will shut down Frontier’s regional carrier Lynx Aviation. Lynx was founded in 2006 to serve 14 of Frontier’s destinations with 11 Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft. With the closure, Fargo, N.D., and Tulsa, Okla., will lose service entirely, while the rest of the destinations will see their reduced service changed to regional jets. According to a representative from Republic, they couldn’t find a way to make the small regional airline profitable. The final changes will take effect by September.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 9, 2010 ]
First Boeing 747-8 Freighter takes flight
The first Boeing 747-8 Freighter successfully flew Feb. 8. With 747 Chief Pilot Mark Feuerstein and Capt. Tom Imrich on the flight deck, the jet took off from Paine Field in Everett, Washington, at 12:39 p.m. local time and landed at 4:18 p.m. The airplane followed a route over western Washington, where it underwent tests for basic handling qualities and engine performance; it reached a cruising altitude of 17,000 feet and a speed of 230 knots. The new, high-capacity freighter is 18 feet, 4 inches longer than the 747-400 Freighter, providing customers with 16 percent more revenue cargo volume than its predecessor—which means an additional four main-deck pallets and three lower-hold pallets.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 9, 2010 ]
Allegiant Air to open Grand Rapids base
Allegiant Air, LLC, a subsidiary of Allegiant Travel Company, announced Feb. 2 that it will establish a new base at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Mich., and will start low-cost, nonstop service to Myrtle Beach, S.C. Beginning April 27, the carrier will base two 150-seat MD-80 series jet aircraft at the airport. The company said its operation will grow to 34 flights per week. Allegiant’s nonstop service from Grand Rapids to Myrtle Beach will begin April 30.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 9, 2010 ]
Contract crew completes historic F-35 refueling
A contract aircrew from Wyle became the first to refuel the F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing variant (STOVL) of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) in flight using a probe-and-drogue refueling system. Wyle provides high-tech aerospace engineering and other services to the federal government on long-term outsourcing contracts. These aerial refueling missions were performed by Wyle aircrew flying a Navy KC-130 tanker aircraft assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 20 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md. The refueled aircraft, designated the F-35BF-2, is one of three variants of this fifth-generation strike fighter. Wyle says it has the largest independent flight test team in the world with more than 70 members, including 53 pilots, flying 20-plus types of aircraft from supersonic manned jets to helicopters to unmanned flight systems.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 9, 2010 ]
First 787 Dreamliner interior debuts on flight-test airplane
Boeing on Feb. 3 unveiled the first 787 Dreamliner with interior components. The third flight test airplane, ZA003, features a partial interior. Configured for flight-testing purposes, the interior also includes instrumentation racks, flight-test equipment, and workstations for engineers. “This airplane is specifically configured to test the passenger experience elements of the airplane,” said Tom Galantowicz, director of 787 Interiors, Commercial Airplanes. The interior includes 135 seats, multiple lavatories, and two crew rests. Certifying the interior components involves analyses and testing of the lighting, lavatories, stowage bins, dimmable windows, and galleys. Flight tests are continuing. The first 787 delivery, to launch customer ANA (All Nippon Airways) of Japan, is planned for the fourth quarter of this year.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 9, 2010 ]
Aviation industry to take flight again, analyst says
The turmoil surrounding the aviation industry is finally expected to calm, consulting firm Frost & Sullivan said at the Singapore Airshow on Jan. 31. According to Cheong Chern Wai, the firm’s Asia Pacific research analyst of aerospace and defense, passenger traffic statistics show a significant decline across the globe, with 2 percent growth in 2008 against a high of 8 percent growth in 2007. “The first half of 2009 saw traffic declined even further, bringing a negative growth to the industry. As the economy began its slow ascent to recovery, passenger traffic also followed the same path to recovery, with the fourth quarter showing much improved growth.” The first regions to show positive signs of recovery were the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, he said. Moving into 2010, airlines will continue to tread carefully, looking at profitable routes and reorganizing their network to drive growth in their business. “The important role of low-cost carriers has contributed to the growth of passenger traffic, especially in Asia Pacific, and is expected to be the pillar in pushing the aviation industry forward,” says Cheong.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 2, 2010 ]
Flight Options pilots to vote on contract
The Teamsters Airline Division said Feb. 1 that it has reached a tentative agreement for a first pilot contract with Flight Options, LLC, the Cleveland-based provider of luxury business jet fractional ownership and charter programs. More than 500 Flight Options pilots, represented by Teamsters Local 1108 in Gahanna, Ohio, will vote on the proposed contract in March. The tentative agreement includes across-the-board pay increases for every pilot, longevity-based salary increases, scope and job security protections, additional paid time off, overtime provisions, an expanded crew basing system, and health insurance security, the union said.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 2, 2010 ]
Horizon Air pilots ask for mediation
The union representing Horizon Air pilots petitioned the National Mediation Board on Jan. 28 to help conclude contract negotiations with Horizon Air and the carrier’s parent company, Alaska Air Group. “Four years of negotiations is more than enough time to reach an agreement that provides just compensation and fair work rules,” said Capt. David Bourne, Teamsters Airline Division director. “While the Alaska Air Group enjoys record profits, it has adamantly refused to share even a modest portion of those profits” with its pilots, Bourne said. “Instead, the carrier seeks concessions from its pilots, which devalues the flight deck experience and talent that allows the company to make its profits.”
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 2, 2010 ]
Continental, AirTran add routes
Continental Airlines announced Jan. 29 that it will increase its schedule of flights between Newark Liberty International Airport and London/Heathrow during 2010. The airline will add a fourth daily round-trip flight to the route in March and a fifth in October; including twice-daily service from Houston, these will bring to seven the airline’s daily departures to Heathrow. Continental also announced nonstop service between Cleveland and Green Bay, Wis., and Norfolk, Va., beginning May 2; the Continental Express service will use 50-seat Embraer regional jets. AirTran Airways announced Jan. 28 that it will begin new nonstop service between Grand Rapids, Mich., and its hubs at Baltimore/Washington and Orlando international airports.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 2, 2010 ]
Boeing provides first look at 787 stall tests
Test pilots have conducted the first stall tests of the 787 Dreamliner as part of the initial airworthiness program for the airplane, Boeing announced Jan. 29. The testing went “very well and there were no surprises,” said 787 Chief Pilot Mike Carriker. Highlights and an interview with Carriker are featured in a three-minute video on a new 787 flight test Web site. Additional stall tests will take place throughout the flight test period.
[ POSTED FEBRUARY 2, 2010 ]
Delta to update aircraft instead of buying new
Delta Air Lines announced Jan. 25 that it will invest $1 billion, or about $300 million per year, through mid-2013 to improve its customers’ experience. “Rather than invest in new aircraft, Delta will be spending its capital to improve the quality and consistency of the on-board product and efficiency of the aircraft we already own,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s president. Delta said it would install winglets on more than 170 Boeing 767-300ER, 757-200, and 737-800 aircraft to extend aircraft range and improve fuel efficiency by as much as five percent. It will complete the modification of 269 pre-merger Northwest aircraft, enhancing cabin amenities; add First Class cabins to 66 CRJ-700 aircraft operated by Delta Connection carriers; install full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite class on 90 trans-oceanic aircraft; and add in-seat audio and video on demand throughout Economy Class on 16 Boeing 747-400 and 52 Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
[ POSTED JANUARY 26, 2010 ]
Eagle to launch seasonal Myrtle Beach service
American Eagle Airlines will begin nonstop seasonal jet service between Myrtle Beach (S.C.) International Airport and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport beginning April 6, the regional affiliate of American Airlines announced Jan. 25. Eagle will operate the service through Oct. 31, using 44-seat Embraer ERJ-140 jets. The seasonal service recognizes Myrtle Beach’s popularity as a recreational destination, noted Gary Foss, vice president of planning and marketing for the AMR Regional Network. American Eagle also announced that nonstop daily jet service between Dallas/Fort Worth and two destinations in South Dakota—Sioux Falls and Rapid City—would begin April 6. The year-round service will be operated with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets. American and American Eagle operate approximately 745 daily departures from Dallas/Fort Worth to nearly 160 destinations.
[ POSTED JANUARY 26, 2010 ]
Delta expands business-jet operations
Delta Air Lines announced Jan. 21 that its wholly owned subsidiary, Delta AirElite, has acquired Kinston, N.C.-based Segrave Aviation, a charter service specializing in wholesale charter aviation services, private aircraft management, aircraft maintenance and fixed base operations. The transaction will double the size of the Delta AirElite fleet, and improve Web-based booking and the travel experience for fleet membership card and charter customers, said Delta, the only U.S.-based carrier with commercial and private jet service. Delta AirElite, which operates a fleet of owned and managed aircraft, was established in 1984 and is based in Cincinnati.
[ POSTED JANUARY 26, 2010 ]
Aviation industry aiding Haitian relief efforts
Members of the UPS pilots’ union, the Independent Pilots Association, are volunteering to crew Haitian relief flights without pay. “This is not the first time our members have stepped up and volunteered their services to move aid to a disaster area,” said Capt. Robert Thrush, IPA president, explaining that in 2005, more than 500 crewmembers volunteered to crew relief flights in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. As of Jan. 18, Miami-based Amerijet International had operated nine flights to Haiti for various organizations and was planning to operate additional flights daily; Amerijet also is collecting rice, dried beans, and tents to assist with the relief efforts. Lynden Air Cargo has used its Lockheed L100-30 Hercules aircraft to fly rescue vehicles, portable kitchens, and other relief supplies to Port-au-Prince; National Airlines and other cargo operators also have delivered aid. Deutsche Post DHL sent a disaster response team to help manage airport logistics in cooperation with the United Nations. Several American Eagle flights have delivered supplies to the beleaguered nation, and many airlines are encouraging customers to donate frequent flier miles to support relief efforts.
[ POSTED JANUARY 19, 2010 ]
Boeing 787 Dreamliner completes initial airworthiness testing
Boeing announced Jan. 15 that it has completed initial airworthiness testing on the 787 Dreamliner. This clears flight testing of the airplane to expand, with more crew members taking part in flights and allowing more airplanes to join the flight test program, Boeing said. Since the first flight in mid-December, the program has completed 15 flights totaling nearly 60 flight hours, climbing as high as 30,000 feet and flying as fast as Mach 0.65. Initial stall tests and other dynamic maneuvers also have been conducted by the six pilots flying the Dreamliner to date.
[ POSTED JANUARY 19, 2010 ]
Continental fleet changes costly
Continental Airlines announced Jan. 18 that it expects to record special charges related to aircraft of $36 million during the fourth quarter of 2009, including a $23 million reduction in the value of certain 737-300 and 737-500 aircraft and spare parts. Continental announced in June 2008 that it would retire all of its less-efficient Boeing 737-300 aircraft and a significant portion of its Boeing 737-500 fleet by the end of 2009, but the value of those aircraft declined more than expected, primarily because additional 737s were grounded by other airlines. Continental has continued to take delivery of more efficient 737-900 aircraft, but overall its 737 fleet contained 33 fewer aircraft in December 2009 than it did in June 2008. The airline also lost $13 million on the sublease of eight Embraer EMB-145 aircraft.
[ POSTED JANUARY 19, 2010 ]
Despite tough economy, Boeing delivers 481 jets
Boeing said that it delivered 481 commercial airplanes during 2009, a number that was in line with the company’s expectations of 480 to 485 airplanes. The Next-Generation 737 comprised most of those aircraft, with 372 deliveries. Boeing also delivered 88 777s, 13 767s, and eight 747s. The company said that the global recession was an oppressive market reality in 2009, driving many carriers to reevaluate their near- and medium-term fleet requirements. Nevertheless, Boeing Commercial Airplanes reported a strong backlog of 3,375 airplane orders. In addition, first deliveries of both the 787 Dreamliner and 747-8 Freighter are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2010.
[ POSTED JANUARY 12, 2010 ]
Virgin America clears regulatory hurdle
The U.S. Department of Transportation on Jan. 8 confirmed that Virgin America’s proposed new ownership structure complies with U.S. laws requiring that domestic airlines remain under the control of U.S. citizens; no more than 25 percent of voting stock can be held by foreign nationals. The proposed structure reflects a change among Virgin America’s U.S. investors and allows employees to participate in the airline’s financial future. U.S.-based VAI Partners, LLC will continue to hold 75 percent of the airline’s voting stock, although the U.S. investors comprising VAI Partners will change. Cyrus Aviation Investor, LLC will increase its stake in the partnership to 55.5 percent; VAI MBO Investors, LLC—comprised of five individuals—will own 27.8 percent; and 16.7 percent will be held for distribution to employees at an initial public offering of company shares. Virgin Group holds the remaining 25 percent of voting shares. The proposed transaction will provide Virgin America with an additional $68.4 million in capital.
[ POSTED JANUARY 12, 2010 ]
Improving consumer confidence driving passenger growth
Last year was one of the worst for the airline industry, with financials for most airlines throughout the world in the red, according to Frost and Sullivan. Only in the third quarter of 2009 were there visible beginnings of some passenger airlines returning to the profit zone—a period that saw some legacy carriers turning profits while low-cost carriers posted losses, the company said. Air cargo carriers have seen revenue reductions of as much as 20 to 25 percent. Profit figures quoted by some Chinese airlines for the third quarter resulted from government economic stimulus activity, said Soumyajyoti Basu, Frost and Sullivan’s Asia Pacific consultant for aerospace and defense. “This trend is set to continue going into 2010. However, airlines come late in the business cycle. Hence, as the world comes out of the recession, the airlines industry will follow with a lag of a few quarters. The downside risk of a double-dip U.S. recession affecting the airlines sector is less pronounced.” He said the airline industry’s outlook for 2010 is one of restrained optimism, with the strongest growth in the Asia Pacific region.
[ POSTED JANUARY 12, 2010 ]
