Do not require proof of vaccination as a condition of entryImplement coordinated, time-limited, risk-based, and evidence-based approaches for health measures in relation to international trafficPrioritize vaccination for seafarers and air crews
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged states to comply with recommendations on international travel from the World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee on testing and risk management during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, IATA highlighted the following recommendations for states:
“Do not require proof of vaccination as a condition of entry.”
IATA believes that the freedom to travel across borders should not be limited to those who are able to be vaccinated. It does, however, support governments opening borders to those who have been vaccinated and that testing should also play a key role where vaccination is not possible. Together—testing and vaccination—are key measures for states to safely reopen their borders and restore freedom of movement while managing the public health risks of COVID-19.
“Implement coordinated, time-limited, risk-based, and evidence-based approaches for health measures in relation to international traffic.”
IATA strongly supports risk-based measures to safely manage international travel. Most scientists believe that COVID-19 will become endemic and that society will need to learn to live with the virus. The air transport industry manages multiple risks—technical, natural, geopolitical, etc.—to maintain safe operations. In line with this recommendation, IATA continues to call on governments to work with the industry to establish plans to safely reconnect their people and economies via air transport based on clear benchmarks for reopening and testing/vaccination protocols to manage risks.
“Reduce the financial burden on international travelers for the measures such as testing, isolation/quarantine, and vaccination, in accordance with Article 40 of the International Health Regulations.”
IATA firmly believes that government-mandated public health measures to manage the risks of COVID-19 should not be a financial barrier to travel. States agreed that the cost of mandatory measures such as testing should be borne by the government in Article 40 of the International Health Regulations. This should not be forgotten in a pandemic. With the cost of PCR testing at US$100 at the low-end and the requirement for multiple tests for a single journey, this could easily make flying unaffordable for individuals and families – reversing decades of progress to make the freedom to travel more accessible. The same applies to quarantine measures where mandated by governments.
“Prioritize vaccination for seafarers and air crews.”
IATA strongly supports the recommendation to prioritize air crew for vaccination. It will protect crew and underpin efficient operations. This is critically important during the crisis for global supply chains transporting vaccines, medicines and medical equipment required to combat the virus.
JoinedFebruary 24, 2021
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Emirates has safely and gradually restarted operations across its networkResumed service between Dubai-Barcelona-Mexico will serve Emirates’ customers in Mexico and offer more choice to travelersThe service will also provide additional connectivity to global markets for Mexican exports
Emirates has announced it will resume four weekly services to Mexico City (MEX) via Barcelona (BCN) from 2nd July 2021, re-opening connectivity and boosting trade and tourism while providing customers worldwide with more connectivity, convenience and choice.
The BCN-MEX route will be operated with a two-class Emirates Boeing 777-200LR which offers 38 Business Class seats in a 2-2-2 configuration and 264 seats in Economy Class. Emirates flight EK255 will depart Dubai at 03:25hrs, arriving in Barcelona at 08:35hrs before departing again at 10:50hrs and arriving into Mexico City at 16:05 the same day. The return flight EK256 will depart Mexico City at 19:40 hrs, arriving in Barcelona at 13:45hrs the next day. EK256 will depart once again from Barcelona the same day at 15:30hrs bound for Dubai where it will arrive at 00:15 hrs the next day (all times are local).
The resumed service between Dubai-Barcelona-Mexico will serve Emirates’ customers in Mexico and offer more choice to travelers heading from Europe, India, South East Asia and the Middle East via Dubai or Barcelona. The service will also provide additional connectivity to global markets for Mexican exports such as avocados, berries, mangoes, automotive parts and medical supplies. Emirates SkyCargo has been flying freighters to/from Mexico City since 2014 already, marking seven years of operations to the country this month. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Emirates SkyCargo continued its cargo connectivity to Mexico City on freighter and passenger freighter flights, bringing in much needed PPE and COVID-19 vaccines into the country while continuing to support Mexican exports.
Emirates has safely and gradually restarted operations across its network. Since it safely resumed tourism activity in July, Dubai remains one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, especially during the winter season. The city is open for international business and leisure visitors. From sun-soaked beaches and heritage activities to world class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai offers a variety of world-class experiences. It was one of the world’s first cities to obtain Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) – which endorses Dubai’s comprehensive and effective measures to ensure guest health and safety.
Emirates customers from the UAE and around the world can now plan their travel with ease and convenience as Mexico remains open for tourists and visitors. Mexico is a popular destination for business and leisure global travelers, in particular from UAE, Spain, Pakistan, Singapore, Egypt and Lebanon. Mexico is also home to Middle East communities that can now take advantage of the resumed service.
‘Green List’ passengers will only be required to undergo PCR testing upon arrival at Abu Dhabi AirportCountries, regions, and territories included within the ‘Green List’ will be regularly updatedInclusion in the list is subject to strict criteria of health and safety
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has issued the updated list of ‘Green List’ destinations.
Passengers arriving from these destinations will be exempt from mandatory quarantine measures after landing in Abu Dhabi and will only be required to undergo PCR testing upon arrival at Abu Dhabi Airport.
Countries, regions, and territories included within the ‘Green List’ will be regularly updated based on international development.
Inclusion in the list is subject to strict criteria of health and safety to ensure the well-being of the UAE community.
The list also only applies to countries passengers are arriving from rather than citizenship.
Below is the updated ‘Green List’ as of April 22, 2021
AustraliaBhutanBruneiChinaCubaGreenland Hong KongIcelandIsraelJapanMauritiusMoroccoNew ZealandPortugalRussiaSaudi ArabiaSingaporeSouth KoreaSwitzerlandTaiwan (ROC)TajikistanUnited KingdomUzbekistan
Besieged airline industry is struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemicAirline industry’s losses are expected to amount to around a third of what the troubled sector saw in 2020Industry losses of this scale imply a cash burn of $81 billion in 2021 on top of $149 billion in 2020
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global airlines industry could face up to $48 billion in losses this year as the besieged airline industry is struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new numbers, announced by IATA yesterday, are about 25% worse than the global airlines body had previously expected. It had earlier forecast a $38 billion deficit.
The airline industry’s losses are expected to amount to around a third of what the troubled sector saw in 2020, when it lost more than $126.4 billion as the spread of the coronavirus forced governments to shut borders.
“This crisis is longer and deeper than anyone could have expected. Losses will be reduced from 2020, but the pain of the crisis increases,” IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh said in a statement.
He added that travel restrictions imposed by governments still affect the demand for international travel. The agency now expects global traffic in 2021 to amount to 43% of pre-crisis levels. According to the IATA, this marks an improvement compared to last year, but it is still “far from a recovery.”
Volaris has been able to take advantage of the favorable leasing market conditionVolaris is evaluating further market opportunities to add additional aircraftFuel-efficient aircraft will enable Volaris to take advantage of market opportunities in the second half of the year
Controladora Vuela Compañía de Aviación, S.A.B. de C.V., the ultra-low-cost airline serving Mexico, the United States and Central America, today announces the addition of eight more Airbus A320 NEO aircraft to its fleet in 2021, on top of the three aircraft from its purchase order with Airbus, closing the year with at least 98 aircraft.
Volaris has been able to take advantage of the favorable leasing market conditions under which these aircraft can be added to the fleet, all on long-term leases. Our competitors have been scaling down and this has represented an unprecedented opportunity for Volaris to add additional healthy capacity.
As the vaccination rollout gains momentum in our markets, confidence in air travel has accelerated accordinglyand therefore Volaris will be incorporating eight additional A320 NEO aircraft to its fleet in 2021 through straight operating leases, five of which will enter into service this summer. This additional capacity will be deployed primarily to strengthen our leading position in the Mexican domestic market. The Company is evaluating further market opportunities to add additional aircraft.
These fuel-efficient aircraft will enable Volaris to take advantage of market opportunities in the second half of the year and will further increase the percentage of A320 NEO family aircraft in its fleet. All this aligned to the Company’s sustainability strategy to ensure industry and business viability in the future.
Peru was the most affected by the pandemic with a 73% drop in international visitors, followed by Venezuela and EcuadorChile was the least affected with international tourists falling by 25% followed by Argentina and ColombiaAnalysts project South America’s International tourism market will not reach pre-pandemic levels until at least 2022
South America’s tourism is fragile compared to regions such as North America and Europe. Unstable political climates, fears of corruption, and perceived crime are all factors that impact the continent, and these risks have only increased over 2020 as a consequence of the pandemic. Tourist hotspots Peru and Ecuador were some of the most severely affected nations recording a 73% and 70% drop in international visitors respectively. Venezuela’s dismal economic situation and political disruption, coupled with the COVID-19 epidemic saw its already fledgling tourism industry continue to fall by 71%. As a result, industry analysts predict that international tourism will not recover in the region until at least 2022.
South America’s tourism industry’s recovery will depend largely on freedom of movement, infrastructure and the economic costs of travel.
However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Countries with diverse geographical landscapes seemed to fare better than more centralized areas in South America, slowing the tourism decline over 2020.
Geographic diversity was a key factor. Chile and Argentina have diverse climates ranging from desert landscapes, vineyards, rainforests, beaches, glaciers and mountains. Many of these landscapes have purpose-built resorts and infrastructures which attract cruise, ski, gastronomic, backpacking and beach tourists, to name a few. As such, tourism in these regions only fell by 25%.
The location has and will continue to be an essential factor in destination recovery. For example, Colombia can attract tourists from the US through short flight times and low-cost air tickets.
JetBlue announces new MCI flights from BOS and JFKJetBlue service can help stimulate recovery and advance focus city growth strategy in the NortheastNew service will launch in 2022
JetBlue Airways announced that the carrier intends to serve the Kansas City region with new nonstop air service from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) to Boston-Logan International Airport (BOS) and New York-JFK International Airport (JFK).
“As more travelers return to the skies, we’ve taken a fresh look at our route map and identified new places where our award-winning service and low fares can help stimulate recovery and advance our focus city growth strategy in the Northeast” said Andrea Lusso, vice president network planning, JetBlue. “We can’t wait to introduce the JetBlue brand to new customers in Kansas City who will soon benefit from better service and more competition. We look forward to seeing them onboard soon.”
“JetBlue’s decision to add Kansas City to its growing network further validates this region’s position as the economic engine in the heart of America,” said Pat Klein director of Kansas City’s Aviation Department.
“While we are always excited about new carriers, I am thrilled to welcome JetBlue as one of our partners at KCI. With new nonstops to New York and Boston, our flying public in Missouri, Kansas, and beyond will have more access to vital business and cultural offerings in the Northeast, more Royals victories in the American League East, and to JetBlue’s destination network. In 2017, Kansas City, Missouri made a commitment to an improved airport for our entire region. We’re proud to see our voters’ support bearing fruit. Expect more positive announcements as KCI and Kansas City government help lead our reopening and economic recovery.”Pre-pandemic, New York City was the third-most popular destination from Kansas City with nearly 700 daily passengers each way. Pre-pandemic, Boston was one of the fastest growing destinations from Kansas City, with more than 250 daily passengers each way.
JetBlue will operate new routes using a variety of aircraft. The new service will launch in 2022. Flight schedules and fare information are expected to be published in the coming months.
Single European Sky project to reform Europe’s air traffic management system faces collapseEuropean states must support European Commission’s proposals to reboot stalled initiativeCOVID-19 crisis makes the efficiency gains of the SES more critical than ever
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned that the Single European Sky (SES) project to reform Europe’s air traffic management system faces collapse if European states do not support the European Commission’s proposals to reboot the stalled initiative.
“The European Commission has been trying to deliver the benefits of SES since the early 2000s. But state inaction has meant that none of its targets have been met. New legislation, as proposed by the Commission, is the only way to force the reform and improvements that are desperately needed. But the intransigence and selfishness of key EU states and their air navigation service providers (ANSPs) threatens to collapse the latest Commission effort,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
The SES is vital for a safe, sustainable, and efficient European air transport industry. Among its benefits are:
An improvement in safety performance by a factor of tenGreater capacity and fewer delays, giving a EUR 245 billion boost to Europe’s GDP and a million extra jobs annually from 2035A 10% cut in EU aviation emissions, supporting the European Green Deal
“The COVID-19 crisis makes the efficiency gains of the SES more critical than ever. And the climate crisis makes the sustainability benefits essential. Europe talks a good game about the importance of sustainability and competitiveness. It’s time to put action behind those words with the SES. If the combined weight of the climate crisis and the COVID-19 crisis are not sufficiently compelling drivers for SES, it’s hard to know what could be,” said Walsh.
CSAT has expanded the offer of services provided by its base maintenance divisionOverhauls of most modern version of Boeing 737 MAX be provided in Czech MRO’s hangar at Václav Havel Airport PragueBoeing 737 MAX will be increasingly sought after due to current situation in aviation
Czech Airlines Technics (CSAT) will now provide customers with Boeing 737 MAX maintenance. Thanks to the company’s new authorization received from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Czech Republic, CSAT has expanded the offer of services provided by its base maintenance division. Overhauls of the most modern version of this aircraft type are thus to be provided in Czech MRO’s hangar at Václav Havel Airport Prague. LOT Polish Airlines became the first Boeing 737 MAX customer in the middle of April 2021.
“Boeing 737 MAX aircraft are being included in airline fleets all over the world. Therefore, we have decided that now is the right time to expand our service portfolio with this aircraft type, thus offering customers our assistance upon their gradual return to service. In addition, quieter, more economical and more environmentally friendly aircraft will be increasingly sought after due to the current situation in aviation and greater emphasis on sustainable travel. As such, they will become the future direction of our base maintenance division, too” Pavel Haleš, Chairman of the Czech Airlines Technics Board of Directors, said.
LOT Polish Airlines is the first customer with whom CSAT has entered into a cooperation agreement after obtaining the new authorization. Since mid-April 2021, CSAT mechanics have been performing the Boeing 737-8 MAX (SP-LVB registration) overhaul for the Polish national carrier. This is the historically first overhaul of this type of aircraft performed in the hangar F in Prague. In addition, the expansion of the base maintenance service portfolio will promote long-term cooperation not only with LOT, but also with other customers from the segment of air carriers and leasing companies.
Base Maintenance work is also a part of the package of services offered by Czech Airlines Technics to clients interested in long-term aircraft parking. “As there is a great demand for aircraft storage on the market, we will secure the parking of additional six Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft at Václav Havel Airport Prague for major leasing companies in the coming weeks. Thanks to the extension of our base maintenance division authorization with this aircraft type, we will also provide owners with hangar maintenance and ensure the aircraft airworthiness as soon as new operators are found,” Pavel Haleš added, commenting on the company’s latest achievement.
Last year, despite the COVID-19 pandemics, which has had a major impact on the entire aviation sector, Czech Airlines Technics managed to successfully complete over 70 base maintenance overhauls on Boeing 737, Airbus A320 Family and ATR aircraft. Finnair, Transavia Airlines, Czech Airlines, Smartwings and NEOS are among the most important Czech Airlines Technics clients in the base maintenance division. In 2020, a team of CSAT mechanics also worked on projects for new customers, namely Jet2.com, Austrian Airlines and clients from both the government and private sectors.
The center’s opening coinciding with the resumption of international flights from Belfast City AirportFlights have resumed today from Belfast City to Amsterdam Schiphol AirportTests, which must be pre-booked, are also available for non-flying members of the general public
George Best Belfast City Airport has today opened a new COVID-19 testing facility with leading global diagnostics company, Randox.
The test center, purpose-built by leading Belfast building firm H&J Martin, offers quick and affordable PCR and antigen (lateral flow) tests, with its opening coinciding with the resumption of international flights from Belfast City Airport.
Airport Operations Manager, Judith Davis, explained:
“Flights have resumed today from Belfast City Airport to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport with our airline partner KLM, which is another positive step as airlines across the world rebuild and restart their networks.
“Currently the Dutch Government requires all passengers entering the Netherlands to have taken and returned a negative result from both a PCR and an antigen (lateral flow) test. Providing this service on-site is the ultimate convenience for our passengers, which is something we pride ourselves on and continually strive to enhance.”
PCR tests and antigen tests by Randox available at Belfast City Airport. Judith details further the benefits this offers the people of Northern Ireland.
“These tests, which must be pre-booked, aren’t just reserved for passengers flying from Belfast City Airport but are also available for non-flying members of the general public.
Qatar Airways starts using Honeywell’s Ultraviolet (UV) Cabin System version 2.0All devices have undergone comprehensive testing on board Qatar Airways’ aircraftUV light has been shown to be capable of inactivating various viruses and bacteria when properly applied
Qatar Airways becomes the first global carrier to operate Honeywell’s Ultraviolet (UV) Cabin System version 2.0, further advancing its hygiene measures on board.
The latest version of the Honeywell UV Cabin System that is owned and operated by Qatar Aviation Services (QAS), has been introduced to add flexibility, improve reliability, mobility and ease of use compared to its predecessor, with extended UV wings that treat both narrow and wide areas on board, reducing the overall disinfection time. This version also includes a hand wand that disinfects areas like the cockpit and other smaller spaces and is non-motorized leading to less battery consumption. In clinical tests, UV light has been shown to be capable of inactivating various viruses and bacteria when properly applied.
After receiving 17 units of the latest version of the Honeywell UV Cabin System V2, the devices have all undergone comprehensive testing on board Qatar Airways’ aircraft. The airline aims to operate them on board all aircraft turnarounds at Hamad International Airport (HIA).
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “As the first global airline to operate the latest version of the Honeywell UV Cabin System V2 on board our aircraft, it is significantly more user friendly and technologically advanced. QAS has continued to maintain our impeccable service during the outbreak of COVID-19, specifically supporting with repatriation flights and increased cargo workloads.
“As the first global airline in the world to achieve the prestigious Skytrax 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating, the first airline in the Middle East to begin trials of the innovative new IATA Travel Pass ‘Digital Passport’ mobile app, and most recently, the first airline in the world to operate a flight with fully vaccinated crew and passengers – it is in our core to continuously be at the forefront of innovation, and to keep implementing the latest safety and hygiene measures on board and on the ground.”
QAS continues to uphold its world-class handling standards and long standing relationships with all airlines, and together with HIA ensures a safe and seamless journey for all passengers. Qatar Airways’ aircraft will continue to be regularly disinfected using cleaning products recommended by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The latest version of the Honeywell UV Cabin System V2 will be utilized as an additional step after manual disinfection, to ensure the very highest standards of cleanliness.
The cautious recovery of early 2021 was halted in the first half of MarchFor USA Atlantic South, USA Midwest, Taiwan, Thailand, Belgium and Kenya, March 2021 was the best month since 2018Freighter capacity in March increased 7%-points less than cargo capacity on passenger aircraft
Air cargo’s final March figures show a year-on-year (YoY) worldwide growth of 21%. To make any sense of this percentage, the detailed results for March 2020, the most two-faced month in air cargo living memory, need to be revisited.
YoY change in the period March 1-15, 2021, stood at -0.2%, but the YoY growth in the second half of the month was +44%, a clear reminder that the first lockdown started to bite air cargo by mid-March 2020.
As the cautious recovery of early 2021 (+1.1% YoY for the first 2 months) was halted in the first half of March (-0.2% YoY), the question arises whether the second half reversed the trend again.
Industry experts looked at volume developments for the 30 largest markets first. For six of them (the origins USA Atlantic South, USA Midwest, Taiwan, Thailand, Belgium and Kenya), March 2021 was simply the best month since January 2018.
The same was true for the destination markets China-East, South Korea, Japan, Belgium, the Netherlands and USA-Midwest. Other top-origins, notably China North East and Central, France, UK, India, and Australia, have not yet recovered. Their month of March remained more than 20% below their best month over the past three years. This is also the case for the destinations Australia, Canada East, China Northeast, Spain, South Africa and USA Northeast.
Worldwide, March 2021 was only marginally lower than the same month in 2018 and 2019. This is the more remarkable when taking into account the enormous reduction in cargo capacity.
Rosaviatsiya sets up crisis center for Turkey return flightsRussia restricted Turkey flights ‘due to a rise in COVID-19 cases in Turkey’Russian tourists advised to postpone their trips to Turkey
Russian Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) issued a statement today announcing that it has established a crisis center to monitor and assist the return of Russian citizens from Turkey.
“The crisis center of Rosaviatsiya will be regularly informing the Russian Transport Ministry about the number of performed flights from Turkey to Russia, the number of transported citizens as well as the number of Russian citizens with issued flight tickets, who are waiting to return to their homeland,” the statement said.
Russia restricted flights to and from Turkey from April 15 to June 1, officially ‘due to a rise in COVID-19 cases in Turkey’.
But the decision to drastically cut the number of flights to Turkey, which is heavily reliant on revenue from tourism, was announced two days after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Istanbul.
The Russian Tourism Agency recommends Russian tourists to postpone their trips to Turkey or to change the vacationing destination.
Passengers witnessed the plane on fire on the right side of the wingPilots were able to land the plane with one engineCivil lawsuits allege at least $50,000 in damages in the Circuit Court of Cook County
Clifford Law Offices today filed two lawsuits in Illinois against United Airlines on behalf of two passengers who suffering significant trauma stemming from a flight that experienced a fiery engine loss while traveling from Denver to Hawaii on February 20, 2021.
UA Flight 328 Boeing 777-200 was en route to Honolulu when four minutes after takeoff an explosion occurred, and the right engine was engulfed in flames. Pilots were forced to turn back to Denver as passengers witnessed the plane on fire on the right side of the wing and the engine reportedly was missing. A loud bang could be heard on the plane’s cockpit voice recorder that was later recovered.
Pilots were able to land the plane with one engine and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has since reported it is investigating other planes with similar engines to see if the defect is widespread. The flight time of terror was 24 minutes before the plane touched ground.
The civil lawsuits that allege at least $50,000 in damages in the Circuit Court of Cook County allege significant trauma and distress suffered on behalf of two passengers who live in Hawaii.
“The passengers on this flight thought it was going to be their last,” said Robert A. Clifford, founder and senior partner at Clifford Law Offices in Chicago, an internationally-renown aviation firm. He is lead counsel in the crash of a Boeing 737 MAX airliner that crashed in Ethiopia two years ago killing all 157 on board. He represents families of 72 of those victims. “Imagine as a passenger looking out the window of a plane and helplessly watching the engine on fire. The terror you experience lasts a lifetime.”
Video posted on Twitter from the emergency showed the engine fully engulfed in flames as the plane flew. Pieces of the aircraft were discovered on the ground below, including debris crashing through a home and narrowly missing a half-dozen teams at soccer practice on a nearby field.
Two hundred forty people were aboard that flight and many later reported they were praying the entire way back to the airport, hoping they would still see their children again. Several have contacted Clifford Law Offices in light of the significant trauma they experienced and to ensure that they get answers as to what happened in this incident.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting an investigation into the crash that can take up to a year or more to conclude.
Ethiopian Airlines joined the fight against the pandemic since the outbreak of the virusEthiopian Airlines has beefed up its cargo shipment capacity by reconfiguring itspassenger aircraftEthiopian played an exemplary role in the distribution of PPE across the globe
Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s leading Airline, has transported 3.5 Million dosesof COVID-19 vaccine from Shanghai to São Paulo, Brazil, via Addis Ababa. The vaccine arrived in Brazil on Thursday, 15 April 2021. So far, Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services has transported over 20 Million vaccines to more than 20 countries.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam said “As a leading panAfrican airline, we joined the fight against the pandemic since the outbreak of the virus. Our commitment to fighting against the pandemic and saving lives has been unwavering in Africa and beyond. I feel that our efficient and timely delivery of vaccines would save millions of lives that could have been lost due to lack of access to vaccines. We are devoted to transport vaccines globally with our modern fleet, well-established infrastructure and diligent employees. I am glad that we have started to reach beyond Africa and we will continue to play our part in the globalvaccine distribution. Our collaborative efforts are the only way out at this critical time where equitable distribution and transportation of the vaccines is desirable.’’
Ethiopian Airlines has beefed up its cargo shipment capacity by reconfiguring itspassenger aircraft and introducing new technologies. The airline has become the choice of cargo partners as a result of its agility, capability to store and carry time-sensitive shipments such as pharmaceuticals. It played an exemplary role in the distribution of PPE across the globe which led to the selection of Addis Ababa Bole International Airport as a humanitarian air hub by UN agencies.
Currently, Ethiopian is developing an in-house dry ice manufacturing facility that iscapable of producing 9,000kg of ice daily to fulfill the need for additional coolants for vaccines produced by Pfizer-BioNTech & Moderna that require ultra-cold environment for transport.
Alaska Airlines to fly to Burbank, Los Angeles, Portland, Orange County, San Diego and SeattleAlaska Airlines adds flight to Hollywood Burbank AirportNew route between Santa Rosa/Sonoma and Burbank will be served by the Embraer 175 jet
Alaska Airlines is increasing its service and commitment to Santa Rosa/Sonoma County with more nonstop flights between Southern California and the heart of wine country. Starting June 1, the airline will offer daily nonstop service between Santa Rosa/Sonoma County and Burbank. On Sept. 8, Alaska will add additional flights to both Orange County and San Diego.
With the additional flight to Hollywood Burbank Airport, the airline will have nonstop service to six destinations from Sonoma County: Burbank, Los Angeles, Portland, Orange County, San Diego and Seattle. By fall, Alaska Airlines will operate 13 peak day departures, including eight daily nonstop flights to Southern California airports.
“Sonoma County offers the perfect mix of stunning outdoor locales, acclaimed food and wine, and a vibrant cultural scene,” said Brett Catlin, Alaska’s vice president of network and alliances. “We’re proud to better connect Southern California with Sonoma and look forward to welcoming guests with our award-winning service this summer.”
Alaska was the first commercial airline to resume service to Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport in 2007. The airline has long been the airport’s largest carrier. In 2019, three out of four passengers to Santa Rosa/Sonoma County flew on Alaska.
“We’re grateful for the 14 years of commitment, growth and Alaska’s outstanding service to the North Bay and the heart of wine country. Alaska recognizes the potential in our market and STS looks forward to many more years of a prosperous partnership,” said Jon Stout, airport manager at Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport.
The new route between Santa Rosa/Sonoma and Burbank will be served by the Embraer 175 jet, an aircraft with only window and aisle seating; there are no middle seats.
The agreement in principle is subject to finalization between the parties and ratification by the employee groupThe parties had temporarily suspended negotiations early in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemicAllegiant currently employs 415 maintenance technician and related employees
Allegiant today announces that the company and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), representing Allegiant’s workforce of maintenance technician and related employees, have reached an agreement in principle on all remaining open issues for the first collective bargaining agreement between the parties.
The agreement in principle is subject to finalization between the parties and ratification by the employee group, which includes line and heavy maintenance technicians as well as stores employees and some administrative maintenance staff. A ratification vote is expected to occur by the end of July, 2021. Allegiant currently employs 415 maintenance technician and related employees.
“We are pleased to announce this agreement with the IBT and our workforce of maintenance technician and related employees, and commend the great work of all who have been involved in the process,” said Maurice J. Gallagher, Jr., Allegiant chairman and chief executive officer. “Our maintenance team’s work is critical to our operation every day, ensuring our customers have access to safe and seamless, convenient and affordable travel. I applaud this important milestone and look forward to finalizing the first contract with this critical, skilled group of team members.”
The process of negotiating a first collective bargaining agreement for Allegiant maintenance technician and related employees began in January 2019. The parties had temporarily suspended negotiations early in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but talks resumed in September. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters was most recently certified as the group’s exclusive representative on March 7, 2018.
The collaboration contributes to the climate commitments Neste made in 2020Finnair’s target is to become carbon neutral by 2045Finnair is one of the most frequently used airlines for business travel by Neste’s employees
Neste and Finnair are joining forces to reduce carbon emissions related to Nesteemployees’ business travel by using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Neste hasrecently made 300 tons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel available at Helsinki Airport in Finland for Finnair’s use. By replacing a part of the fossil jet fuel with SAF on its flights departing from Helsinki Airport, Finnair will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 900 tons of CO2 equivalent. This represents a significant share of the emissions accumulated from Neste employees’ global air travel in 2020.
The collaboration contributes to the climate commitments Neste made in2020, including a commitment to reduce and compensate emissions from its employees’ business travel through the use of the company’s own sustainable aviation fuel. Finnair is a strategic partner for Neste, and also one of the most frequently used airlines for business travel by Neste’s employees. Finnair’s target is to become carbon neutral by 2045, and to halve its net CO2 emissions by the end of 2025.
Piloting a new SAF-based solution for reducing emissions from business airtravel
The collaboration between Neste and Finnair also serves as a showcase for otherbusinesses, since it offers a clear solution on how to reduce business airtravel emissions. Neste’s aim is to make this solution available for businesses,public institutions and other organizations with ambitious climate commitments.
“We are excited about collaborating with Finnair to pilot the innovativesolution we have developed for reducing emissions from business air travel. Thissolution, built upon Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel and partnerships withairlines, will provide corporate customers and other organizations yet anothertool for tackling climate change and meeting their climate commitments,“ saysSami Jauhiainen, Vice President, Business Development from Neste’s RenewableAviation business unit. “We are extending the invitation to other companies andcollaborating airlines to partner with Neste, making business travel moresustainable and future-fit. It is now a great time to prepare for when businesstravel takes off again.”
Aviation sector navigates the global pandemic as vaccine deployment continues to accelerateCommercial banks shored up the aviation industry’s need for liquidity early in the pandemicBoeing expects that capital will continue to be routed into the sector by established players
Boeing projects global and diversified funding will continue to flow into the aircraft financing sector as the aviation sector navigates the global pandemic and vaccine deployment continues to accelerate.
“Financiers and investors understand the industry’s resilience and the long-term fundamentals that make aircraft a valuable asset class,” said Tim Myers, president of Boeing Capital Corporation. “Despite the unprecedented impacts of COVID-19 on the global aerospace industry, there generally continues to be liquidity in the market for our customers, and we expect it to further improve as travel begins to rebound.”
The 2021 Current Aircraft Finance Market Outlook (CAFMO), the first published since 2019, reflects Boeing’s near-term view of market dynamics and assesses financing sources for new commercial airplane deliveries. Due to the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, the 2021 CAFMO excludes its customary one- and five-year industry financing projections.
“Industry fundamentals continue to show varying degrees of strength in different markets depending on the regional trends of the global pandemic,” Myers said. “We expect that capital will continue to be routed into the sector by established players and as new entrants seek opportunities during the industry’s recovery.”
The 2021 CAFMO reports the aircraft financing environment ended 2020 with enough liquidity to finance deliveries, but with stresses particularly in the bank debt and tax equity markets.
For decades, the Lufthansa Group has been committed to a sustainable and responsible corporate policyNow companies can also use Compensaid for their employees’ business tripsThe first customer is insurance provider AXA Deutschland
Thanks to Compensaid, the innovative digital CO2 compensation platform of the Lufthansa Group, flying carbon neutral is possible for individual travelers. Now companies can also use this option, simply and easily, for their employees’ business trips.
With the “Compensaid Corporate Program” corporate customers have the possibility to use, for instance, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for their air travel. With SAF they can compensate the CO2 emissions produced when flying. This program allows companies to offset all their flights – whether they’re with the Lufthansa Group or other airlines.
The first customer is insurance provider AXA Deutschland. The company will offset its business-related air travel for an initial period of three years.
“CO2-neutral flying is already possible today. With Compensaid, we have a powerful tool for providing attractive and innovative offers to our customers. Offsetting is part of our strategy to cut our CO2 emissions in half by 2030 and achieve a neutral carbon footprint by 2050. We are delighted that with AXA Deutschland we have gained a partner that shares our vision of sustainable mobility,” explains Christina Foerster, Lufthansa Group Executive Board Member for Customer, IT & Corporate Responsibility.
Air travel compensation with Compensaid is done either through the use of SAF, the sponsorship of certified climate protection projects, or a combination of both options. AXA Deutschland’s offsetting starts with 15 percent via SAF and 85 percent through selected climate protection projects. This results in the complete CO2 neutrality of all the flights.
Currently, eight Russian airlines operate regular flights to TurkeyAir service suspended to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 infectionFlight to Tanzania and Turkey will resume when COVID-19 situation stabilizes
Russian officials announced that all regular and chartered passenger flights to Turkey will be restricted for a period from April 15 to June 1 to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 infection.
Currently, eight Russian airlines operate regular flights to Turkey: Aeroflot, Pobeda, Rossiya, S7, Nordwind, UTair, Azur Air and Ural Airlines.
GoJet plans to expand pilot hiring in 2021 to support the growth of its fleetAviate program will allow GoJet pilots a direct path towards flying for UnitedThe program provides a great opportunity for pilots and first officers to move forward in their career paths
GoJet Airlines today announced it is joining Aviate, United Airlines‘ innovative pilot development program. Aviate provides those who aspire to a career as a United captain with the most direct route to achieving that goal. GoJet is proud to be a part of this innovative and transformative program for so many aspiring and current aviation professionals. GoJet plans to expand pilot hiring in 2021 to support the growth of its fleet and the carrier is thrilled to have this avenue for current and prospective pilots to advance in their careers.
The Aviate program will allow GoJet pilots a direct path towards flying for United after successfully applying to the program, maintaining high performance standards, meeting the airline’s requirements and flying 2000 hours and 24 months with GoJet, a United Express carrier. Aviate also provides support and coaching for pilots to develop into leaders who exemplify the professionalism, level of excellence and commitment to providing safe, caring, dependable and efficient service that United expects from its pilots.
Bangladesh is the latest country to suspend international passenger air service due to COVID-19 pandemic. The weeklong suspension of all international passenger flights to and from Bangladesh will commence on April 14
According to a circular issued this evening, Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) said the suspension will come to an effect from 12:01am (Bangladesh Standard Time) on April 14 and will continue until 12:59pm BST on April 20.
Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh has suspended operation of around 500 international flights, scheduled to operate to and from Dhaka in a week from April 14.
Medevac, humanitarian, relief, cargo, technical landing for refueling only and the flights cleared under special consideration will remain out of the purview of this suspension, CAAB said.
Authorities will be able to carry a maximum of 260 passengers on a wide body aircraft while 140 passengers are allowed on a narrow body aircraft in the aforesaid flights.
Irrespective of the COVID-19 vaccination and unless otherwise relaxed by the competent authority, all passengers coming or leaving Bangladesh by the flight mentioned aforesaid shall mandatorily possess PCR based COVID-19 negative certificate.
The PCR test shall be done within 72 hours of the flight departure time.
Passengers coming by the flights cleared under special consideration shall strictly have to complete a 14-day institutional quarantine at government nominated facilities or at hotels on passengers’ own expenses.
Aircraft tests were done in freezing conditionAircraft made 14 flights over the coast of the White Sea, part of the Barents Sea and the Subpolar Urals areaIrkut has been successfully flying the MC-21 for more than three years
Russian civil aviation authorities have conducted a test Russia’s first post-Soviet large domestic passenger aircraft, the MC-21-300.
The tests were done in freezing conditions to observe how the aircraft performs when covered with ice. The aircraft successfully completed certification tests under natural icing conditions in northern Russia and can safely fly in harsh conditions, its manufacturer Irkut Corporation, part of United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), revealed earlier this week.
The aircraft made some 14 flights lasting from three to five hours over the coast of the White Sea, part of the Barents Sea and the Subpolar Urals area. The routes were specifically picked because of the high humidity and low temperatures found there, which lead to ice formation on aircraft surfaces.
The certification flights were conducted in several steps. First, the crew looked for clouds that would create the required conditions. Special equipment installed on the plane, including 12 cameras, then allowed them to control how much of the aircraft’s surface was covered with ice and record how it was functioning. After the ice layer was thick enough, the airliner gained altitude to check its performance under those conditions.
Ice thickness was increased with each test flight, finally reaching eight centimeters – more than enough to say that the plane successfully passed the test. According to Russian and European standards, an aircraft shouldn’t lose its designed characteristics while covered a layer of ice 7.6 cm (3 inches) thick.
After completing the certification flights, the MC-21-300 returned from Arkhangelsk to the Zhukovsky airport near Moscow.
Irkut has been successfully flying the MC-21 for more than three years, but inability to acquire US-made parts for the aircraft forced the corporation to think of ways to try to develop the aircraft using more domestic components. A variant of the MC-21, known as MC-21-310 aircraft, equipped with two Russian PD-14 engines made its maiden flight at the end of last year.
Senior Wizz Air manager told base captains that 250 pilots need to be dismissed shortlyWizz Air management used highly problematic practices to get rid of troublemakers during COVID-19 crisisWizz Air acted after receiving several complaints, and have made major changes to the management team
A transcript of a secret Wizz Air management meeting from 4 April 2020 which was leaked to staff has been passed to the ETF, revealing that management saw the COVID-19 crisis as the opportunity to “clean up the airline” by using discriminatory and anti-worker criteria in deciding which pilots to dismiss.
In the meeting, a senior Wizz Air manager tells base captains that 250 pilots need to be dismissed shortly and that after stopping the training of 150 pilots, they need to come up with a list of another 100.
He gives them two criteria to base their decision on, starting with “bad apples, so anyone that has caused you grief on a routine basis, whether it’s excessive sickness, not doing their ground school, poor performance in their PPCs.” The other group put forward by the manager is “weak captains.” With this category, he first stays more general and says, “That person, you know. We, we know we have them, and now is the time to clean up the airline. Anyone that is not Wizz culture, alright. Anyone that kinda, is always kinda you know what, that person is a pain.”
His speech continues along these lines and gets progressively more direct in explaining the motivations behind these criteria. At one point, he says: “We’re in an opportunity here, to make the next 10 years of your life managing, easy. So we will come out of it, as a much stronger workforce, one that has the Wizz culture and that’s easy to manage in the next future, for the future going ahead.”
The manager also refers to pilots that work for Wizz Air and are employed through an external agency, CONFAIR. He suggests not looking at them for now and only suggest dismissing them as a last resort, as they are” easy to manage because we can let them go at any time,” as well as “incredibly cheap, for the company.”
The leaked document uncovers the highly problematic practices Wizz Air management has used to get rid of what they perceive as troublemakers during the COVID-19 crisis. This toxic environment is not a secret – the ETF has exposed it many times before, with workers claiming that they’ve been dismissed because of their trade union membership or even just trying to protect their fundamental rights at work.
Hawaiian Airlines’ arrival in Austin signals strong confidence in the Austin marketHawaiian will increase AUS-HNL service to three weekly flights from May 28 through August 13Both destinations are known for their incredible food, music and arts scene
Hawaiian Airlines today celebrated the inauguration of its twice-weekly nonstop service between Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Hawaii’s hometown carrier introduced its in-house music and dance group, The Hawaiian Airlines Serenaders, to the “Live Music Capital of the World” as it welcomed guests aboard its first flight to Hawaii.
“We’re thrilled to be the first carrier to provide nonstop flights between Central Texas and Hawai’i,” said Peter Ingram, president and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, who celebrated the inaugural departure alongside representatives from AUS airport, the City of Austin, Visit Austin and the Austin Chamber of Commerce. “Both destinations are known for their incredible food, music and arts scene and we couldn’t be more excited to connect these two amazing cities with our convenient, award-winning service.”
Flight HA81 departs Austin on Thursday and Sunday at 10:10 a.m. with a 1:30 p.m. scheduled arrival in Honolulu, allowing guests to check in to their accommodations and begin exploring Oahu or connect to any of Hawaiian’s four Neighbor Island destinations. The flight from Honolulu to Austin, HA82, departs on Wednesday and Saturday at 10 a.m. and arrives at 10:10 p.m.
Hawaiian will increase AUS-HNL service to three weekly flights from May 28 through Aug. 13 to meet summer travel demand.
“Hawaiian Airlines’ arrival in Austin signals strong confidence in the Austin market as we continue to recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic,” said Jacqueline Yaft, chief executive officer for AUS. “This is a great milestone for both our airport and our greater Austin community.”
New order is in addition to Delta’s 2017 order of 100 A321neo aircraftThese planes will be powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM enginesDelta has also accelerated delivery of two A350-900 aircraft as well as two A330-900neo aircraft
Delta Air Lines has placed a firm order for 25 Airbus A321neo (New Engine Option) aircraft. This is in addition to Delta’s 2017 order of 100 A321neo aircraft. These planes will be powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM engines. Additionally, Delta has accelerated delivery of two A350-900 aircraft as well as two A330-900neo aircraft.
“With our customers ready to reclaim the joy of travel, this agreement positions Delta for growth while accounting for the planned retirements of older narrowbody aircraft in our fleet, reducing our carbon footprint, increasing efficiency and elevating the customer experience,” said Mahendra Nair, Delta Air Lines‘ Senior Vice President – Fleet Strategy. “We thank Airbus for their steadfast partnership during the pandemic and look forward to working with them as we take delivery of the A321neo as well as our accelerated A350 and A330-900neo deliveries.”
“We have managed the challenges of the last year together with our customers, and it is gratifying to be taking steps like this one towards the regrowth of our industry with our long standing partner, Delta,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.
Overall, A320neo Family aircraft deliver per-seat fuel improvements of 20%, along with additional range of up to 500 nautical miles or two metric tons of extra payload.
First delivered in April 2017, the A321neo shares 95% airframe commonality with the Airbus A320 Family, facilitating seamless integration into existing single-aisle fleets. The A321neo also shares a common type rating with the rest of the A320 Family, permitting A320 Family pilots to fly the A321neo without additional training.
This latest order from Delta Air Lines brings the A321neo’s total order since introduction to nearly 3,500, with more than 500 aircraft already in fleets around the world.
Ethiopian opens high-end COVID-19 testing lab at its main hubState-of-the-art COVID-19 testing lab is equipped with cutting-edge technologiesThe lab has a capacity to carry out 1,000 COVID-19 tests a day
Ethiopian Airlines Group announced that it has joined hands with BGI Health Ethiopia, a subsidiary of China’s biotech giant, the BGI Genomics Co., Ltd, to launch high-end COVID-19 testing laboratory at its main hub and the continent’s busiest airport, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. The testing center is opened to revitalize the passengers’ business by creating seamless travel experience that includes COVID-19 testing to passengers that are departing or transiting via Addis Ababa.
The state-of-the-art COVID-19 testing lab is equipped with cutting-edge technologies to provide quick and accurate testing for passengers. Currently, the lab has a capacity to carry out 1,000 COVID-19 tests a day with a potential to grow further after expansion.
Regular test results can be obtained within three hours, leading to a convenient travel arrangement by reducing waiting time for testing and result collection.
Ethiopian Airports CEO Mr. Eskinder Alemu said “We introduced the testing lab inside our hub at Addis Ababa with a view to address our customers’ challenges in travel and revive the passenger service. Originating or transit passengers will no longer have to look for testing centers in the city and wait in lines for COVID- 19 testing. The lab at the airport eliminates the hassle for testing and brings convenience and helps restore passengers’ confidence in travel. The facility is the outcome of the excellent partnership between Ethiopia’s flag carrier and the BGI Health Ethiopia towards ensuring the safety of passengers in line with all international requirements. We will continue to adapt our operations to the new normal so as to ensure customers’ safe travel with Ethiopian.“
Further to significantly reducing the time and energy spent for testing, the launch of the testing center at the airport will elevate Ethiopian customer service and consolidate the airlines’ safety measures at the airport and onboard. Timeliness of COVID 19 test results has been an issue of concern for passengers who wish to transit or extend their stay in Ethiopia and the provision of testing at the airport simplifies customers journey with Ethiopian. The laboratory -performs RT-PCR and IgM antibody tests for COVID-19 to departing, arriving and transit passengers with high level of efficiency in delivering the results. As a result, Ethiopian hopes to see a revival of passenger traffic following the move.
United’s industry-leading digital platform gets even more usefulCustomers can now choose from more than 200 COVID-19 testing providers across the countryOnce the test is validated, customers will see a status indicator informing them that they are “travel-ready” and receive their mobile boarding pass
Since the Travel-Ready Center launched in January, United Airlines customers have been able to easily access testing or vaccine requirements needed for travel destinations, upload completed testing results and vaccine records as well as have them verified, all within the United App.
Today, the industry-leading digital platform gets even better as customers can now choose from more than 200 COVID-19 testing providers across the country, book appointments and receive confirmation whether their test results meet their destination’s requirements. Once the test is validated, customers will see a status indicator informing them that they are “travel-ready” and receive their mobile boarding pass. United is the only airline that offers its customers these services as part of an integrated experience within its app and website and since launch, the airline has processed more than 275,000 COVID-19 tests through the Travel-Ready Center.
“We continue to look for innovative solutions that make travel easier and safer for our customers and employees,” said United’s Chief Customer Officer Toby Enqvist. “This new feature enables customers to travel with confidence knowing they can quickly locate a testing provider if they need one, schedule an appointment and get the results they need – all within the United Travel-Ready Center experience.”
United customers will have access to more than 200 testing sites in the TrustAssure network, including testing sites within United’s hubs of Chicago, Houston, New York/Newark, Los Angeles and San Francisco as well as those located at many drug store and pharmacy chains. In the weeks and months ahead, the airline plans to expand availability to more U.S. cities, and add access to international testing sites for customers flying to the U.S. This process was designed with privacy in mind so that limited personal data is involved.
This new and updated ability to schedule a COVID-19 test and upload results directly within the Travel-Ready Center is just one of the many industry-first solutions United has introduced to make travel easier and safer during the pandemic. United was the first airline to offer COVID-19 tests to customers traveling from San Francisco to Hawaii, and the first to launch a free transatlantic COVID-19 testing pilot program for customers traveling from Newark to London. United also was the first domestic airline to require customers to perform a self-health assessment prior to flying.
With this commitment, Alaska joins The Climate PledgeToday’s announcement included the release of Alaska’s 2020 LIFT Sustainability ReportAlaska’s roadmap to 2040 includes five focus areas to reach net-zero emissions
Alaska Airlines today announced its commitment and roadmap to reduce the company’s carbon emissions to net-zero by 2040, and commitments across carbon, waste, and water impacts by 2025. Today’s announcement included the release of Alaska’s 2020 LIFT Sustainability Report detailing the company’s broader climate change strategy, including waste and water initiatives.
Alaska Airlines, together with its regional subsidiary Horizon Air, identified the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as the company’s most important opportunity for environmental action.
“At Alaska Airlines, we know that travel can make a big difference in people’s lives,” said Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci. “Air travel connects us to our friends and families, helps us understand one another, and helps communities across the globe grow and thrive. But we know that to live our purpose, creating an airline people love, we must operate every day in a way that cares for both people and our planet. That’s why we’ve set out on this bold path to reduce our climate impact near and long term.”
Alaska’s roadmap to 2040 includes five focus areas to reach net-zero emissions:
Fleet renewalOperational efficiencySustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)Novel propulsionCredible, high-quality carbon offsetting technology
Cost isn’t all that matters when picking what company to fly withChoosing the wrong airline has the potential to take even more from usThis report examines overlooked aspects of air travel to help consumers make more-informed decisions
Airfare costs dropped sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they are starting to rise again as travel picks up, with the average leisure fare at $187 as of March 15. But cost isn’t all that matters when picking what company to fly with; choosing the wrong airline has the potential to take even more from us. For instance, 6 animals died during air transportation in 2020, and four major U.S. airlines had at least one pet fatality.
While critical to consider, such factors often fly under the radar due to our focus on price. But finding the cheapest airfare is now quite easy for anyone with an internet connection, so this report examines those other, overlooked aspects of air travel to help consumers make more-informed decisions.
Industry experts compared the 9 largest U.S. airlines, plus two regional carriers, across 17 important metrics. They range from cancellation and delay rates to baggage mishaps and in-flight comfort. The analysts also considered costs in relation to in-flight amenities for the sake of fairness. For example, it wouldn’t be right to penalize an airline that charges for drinks if its tickets are far cheaper than those from an airline with free in-flight refreshments.
2021’s Best Airlines
CategoryAirlineBest Airline OverallAlaska AirlinesCheapest AirlineSpirit AirlinesMost Reliable AirlineSouthwest AirlinesMost Comfortable AirlineJetBlue AirwaysBest Airline for PetsAlaska Airlines, SkyWest Airlines and Envoy AirLeast Complained-About AirlineEnvoy AirSafest AirlineAlaska Airlines
Most Reliable Airline: Southwest Airlines has the lowest rate of cancelations, delays, mishandled luggage and denied boardings.
Most Comfortable Airline: JetBlue leads the pack in terms of in-flight experience, offering free amenities such as Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and complimentary snacks and beverages.
Cheapest Airline: Spirit is the best airlines for budget flyers.
Most Pet-Friendly: Three airlines tied for being most pet-friendly, Alaska Airlines, Envoy Air and SkyWest, with no incidents.
Most Satisfactory Airline: Envoy Air had the industry’s lowest consumer-complaint rate in 2020.
Safest Airline: Alaska Airlines was the safest in 2020. The safety runner-up is Envoy Air.
Detailed Scores
The tables below illustrate the number of points that each airline received.
National Airline Scores
MetricMax ScoreAmerican AirlinesDelta Air LinesSouthwest AirlinesUnited AirlinesJetBlue AirwaysFrontier AirlinesHawaiian AirlinesAlaska AirlinesSpirit AirlinesCancelled Flights6.004.631.283.245.291.550.884.200.004.98Delays17.003.207.389.246.530.002.893.854.405.54Mishandled Baggage Reports7.002.374.534.394.055.175.404.663.435.46Denied Boardings11.007.3611.009.9210.8910.976.5310.9410.539.28Complaints9.003.694.997.670.002.300.000.003.643.35Animal Related Incidents5.003.661.72N/A1.95N/AN/A0.005.00N/ALeg Room2.002.002.002.002.002.000.002.002.000.00Entertainment Options1.001.001.001.001.001.000.001.001.000.00Wi-Fi Availability1.000.500.630.630.501.000.000.000.630.50Complimentary Refreshments1.001.001.001.001.001.000.001.001.000.00Price10.001.102.623.581.593.408.783.394.369.18Aviation Incidents & Accidents6.003.233.234.080.913.780.003.023.803.92Fatal Injuries in Aviation Accidents6.006.006.000.006.006.006.006.006.006.00Injuries in Aviation Incidents & Accidents6.000.000.600.000.000.600.750.750.750.75Blocked Middle Seats Policy4.000.004.000.000.000.000.000.002.000.00Face Masks Availability4.004.004.004.004.000.000.004.004.000.00Fleet Age4.000.000.000.000.000.004.004.004.004.00Final Score100.0043.7355.9853.4345.7040.8237.0948.8156.5455.76
Regional Airline Scores
MetricMax ScoreSkyWest AirlinesEnvoy AirMainly ServesN/AAmerican, Delta, Alaska and UnitedAmericanCancelled Flights6.005.275.53Delays (3)17.002.153.45Mishandled Baggage Reports7.002.700.26Denied Boardings11.008.360.07Complaints9.008.828.91Animal Related Incidents5.005.005.00Leg Room2.000.002.00Entertainment Options (2)1.000.001.00Wi-Fi Availability (2)1.000.500.50Complimentary Refreshments (2)1.001.001.00Price10.002.040.00Aviation Incidents & Accidents6.004.683.89Fatal Injuries in Aviation Accidents6.006.006.00Injuries in Aviation Incidents & Accidents6.000.750.75Blocked Middle Seats Policy4.002.000.00Face Masks Availability4.002.004.00Fleet Age4.000.004.00Final Score100.0051.2646.36
Travel is making a big comebackMillennials are the most excited to get back out there with the vast majority of the generation planning tripsAlthough many Americans still plan to drive to their destination, 19% plan to fly, up 4% from this spring
With summer right around the corner, it’s not just the weather that’s heating up. 2021 Summer Travel Index reveals that – with every passing day – travel is making a big comeback. Nearly half of Americans (43%) in a recent survey believe travel activity will rebound within three months. With Americans no longer settling for staycations and local trips, it appears true vacation getaways are coming back en vogue.
Over two-thirds of Americans (67%) are planning to travel this summer (June 1 – August 31), which is a 17% increase from those who traveled this spring (March 1- May 31). Millennials are the most excited to get back out there with the vast majority (72%) of the generation planning trips. Although many still plan to drive to their destination (43%), 19% plan to fly, up 4% from this spring.
Americans are done with quiet staycations and hanging out idly in their homes; they’re excited to get out and about. Compared to the first week of January, hotel searches are up 65%, searches for experiences (attractions and tours) increased by 78%, and restaurant searches are up 53%.
What’s hot this summer?
Of those planning to travel, 74% of Americans will take a domestic trip and 13% will travel internationally.Americans ready for longer R&R, with 29% taking a weeklong trip and 28% vacationing for 10 days.Most popular travel weeks begin June 21 and June 28, timed around Independence Day.Summer splurge: Over half (53%) of Americans plan to spend more on trips this year vs. last summer, rising to 66% for millennials. Globally, Americans are the biggest summer spenders, planning to shell out 9% more than the average traveler around the world.Hottest amenities: Clean hotels, free cancelations, hotels with restaurants.
Beach destinations continue to shine this summer, with travelers most interested in sunny Florida and Mexico. Their choice of where to stay reiterates that desire: the most popular accommodation types for 2021 summer trips are all-inclusives and beach resorts.
COVID-19 testing will play a major role in re-starting international travelProof of a negative COVID-19 test is required by many governmentsUnilabs will be able to securely upload test results in IATA Travel Pass
European diagnostic services provider Unilabs and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for the world’s airlines, have signed an agreement to incorporate Unilabs’ worldwide COVID-19 testing network into IATA Travel Pass.
The agreement will make Unilabs one of the first major lab groups to be integrated into IATA’s Travel Pass app. Proof of a negative COVID-19 test is required by many governments as a condition of entry, and the app makes the process seamless, secure, and easy.
“COVID-19 testing will play a role in re-starting international travel. Travelers will need to understand test requirements, locate labs, verify their identity to the lab and transfer their test results to relevant parties – airlines and governments – as needed. Our partnership with Unilabs will give travellers access to Unilabs’ extensive network and help them securely and efficiently manage their test results,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“We are delighted that IATA has chosen us for this initiative,” said Michiel Boehmer, Unilabs’ President and COO. “As international travel starts coming back, we are ready to do our bit – delivering the fast, effective, and reliable COVID-19 tests that will get people moving again.”
IATA Travel Pass provides information on entry requirements, directs travelers to trusted labs, and allows passengers to receive and manage digital certificates for COVID-19 tests or vaccinations.
New facility is run in partnership with the UK’s leading travel testing provider CollinsonAll tests are administered by medical professionals on-site with most results available within 45 – 120 minutesTest appointments should be made for before 4pm in order to receive same-day results
Airport Parking & Hotels, an airport parking operator, announces a drive-through COVID-19 testing facility at its APH-owned car park at Gatwick Airport providing travelers with a convenient and affordable way to get tested prior to flying abroad and on return to the UK.
The facility is run in partnership with the UK’s leading travel testing provider Collinson and provides the full range of tests for travelers including RT-PCR, RT-LAMP, Antigen and Antibody testing. Collinson is also on the UK Government’s list of approved test providers for mandatory testing upon a traveler’s return to the UK, as well as for Test to Release requirements.
All tests are administered by medical professionals on-site with most results available within 45 – 120 minutes, depending on the test taken. Test appointments should be made for before 4pm in order to receive same-day results. For those travelers who require a pre-departure RT-PCR test, customers can book an airport hotel for the night before while awaiting results prior to flying.
Nick Caunter, Managing Director of Airport Parking & Hotels (APH) said: “Many people in the UK are eagerly looking forward to a holiday this year and testing looks certain to be a vital enabler for many months to come. The COVID testing facility at our APH Gatwick site provides travelers with the option to have their COVID test done at the same location as parking their car, ensuring the start and finish of their holiday is as simple and easy as possible.”
David Evans, Joint Chief Executive at Collinson said: “With summer travel looking increasingly likely, the partnership with APH provides travelers with a convenient option to have their COVID tests taken all in one place, whether that’s pre-departure or mandatory testing for UK arrivals. While the requirements around testing may change, we believe that offering travelers a greater amount of choice when it comes to the type of test they can take and the convenience of a car-park and hotel nearby is important to helping international travel resume safely.”
The APH car park is located only 12 minutes from Gatwick Airport, with bus transfers provided for customers every 10 – 15 minutes. APH has also launched in April a Super Flex cancellation policy for travelers booking airport parking at APH-owned car parks at Gatwick Airport and Manchester Airport, allowing customers to cancel their booking with a full refund right up to their arrival time at the car park, meaning that if for any reason there is a last-minute problem, they are not out of pocket for their parking.
United Airlines reported first-quarter 2021 net loss of $1.4 billionUnited Airlines reported first-quarter total operating revenue of $3.2 billion, down 66%United Airlines reported first-quarter operating expenses down 49% versus first-quarter 2019
United Airlines (UAL) today announced first-quarter 2021 financial results. The company has its eyes on the future, making continued progress on its commitment to remove $2 billion in structural costs and investing in key customer programs that will position the airline to capitalize on the recovery of business travel and long-haul international demand.
Following its return to positive core cash flow in the month of March, United Airlines is focused on returning to positive adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) margins, even if business and long-haul international demand remain as much as 70% below 2019 levels. United is already moving to capitalize on emerging pent-up demand for travel to countries where vaccinated travelers are welcome. In fact, the company announced new international flying to Greece, Iceland and Croatia earlier today, subject to government approval. These opportunistic steps help position United to return to positive net income even if business and long-haul international demand only returns to about 35% below 2019 levels.
“The United team has now spent a year facing down the most disruptive crisis our industry has ever faced and because of their skill and dedication to our customers, we’re poised to emerge from this pandemic with a future that is brighter than ever,” said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. “We’ve shifted our focus to the next milestone on the horizon and now see a clear path to profitability. We’re encouraged by the strong evidence of pent-up demand for air travel and our continued ability to nimbly match it, which is why we’re as confident as ever that we’ll hit our goal to exceed 2019 adjusted EBITDA margins in 2023, if not sooner.”
United’s efforts to improve the customer experience resulted in the company achieving its highest ever customer satisfaction in the first quarter. Looking ahead, the company is planning continued investment in customers, including continuing the United Polaris® retrofit program and starting retrofit on narrowbody aircraft, modernizing gates, upgrading and expanding United Club℠ locations in Newark and Denver, and rolling out tools that give customers the opportunity to pre-order onboard meals.
First-Quarter Financial Results
Reported first-quarter 2021 net loss of $1.4 billion, adjusted net loss of $2.4 billion.Reported first-quarter total operating revenue of $3.2 billion, down 66% versus first-quarter 2019.Reported first-quarter operating expenses down 49% versus first-quarter 2019, down 34% excluding special charges.Reported first-quarter 2021 ending available liquidity of $21 billion.Reported first-quarter capacity down 54% versus first-quarter 2019.Reported first-quarter average core cash burn of $9 million per day, an improvement of about $10 million per day versus the fourth-quarter 2020.
Second-Quarter 2021 Outlook
Based on current trends, the company expects second quarter 2021 Total Revenue Per Available Seat Mile (TRASM) to be down approximately 20% versus the second quarter 2019.Expects second quarter 2021 capacity to be down around 45% versus the second quarter 2019.Expects second quarter operating expenses excluding special charges to be down approximately 32% versus the second quarter 2019, with second quarter 2021 fuel price per gallon estimated to be approximately $1.83.Expects second quarter 2021 adjusted EBITDA margin5 of around (20%).
Starting in July, United will offer new direct flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to Dubrovnik, CroatiaStarting in July, United will offer new direct flights from from Washington Dulles International Airport to Athens, GreeceStarting in July, United will offer new direct flights from from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Reykjavik, Iceland
United Airlines is adding three new flights to its international network, giving travelers more options for summer travel by flying direct to countries that are starting to reopen to vaccinated visitors. Starting in July, United Airlines will offer new direct flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to Dubrovnik, Croatia, from Washington Dulles International Airport to Athens, Greece and from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Reykjavik, Iceland, all subject to government approval.
United’s Travel-Ready Center enables customers to upload their COVID-19 testing and vaccine documentation, and have it certified ahead of check-in so customers can get their boarding pass before getting to the airport. United is the only airline that does this seamlessly in the airline’s mobile app.
The addition of these new routes reflects an increase in interest among United’s customers: in the last month, searches on United.com for flights to Croatia, Greece and Iceland are up 61%. And customers can book travel starting today at United.com and on the United mobile app.
“As countries around the world begin the process of reopening, leisure travelers are eager to take a long-awaited getaway to new international destinations,” said Patrick Quayle, vice president of international network and alliances. “These three new routes unlock the natural beauty of the outdoors for our guests. They are also the latest example of how United is remaining nimble in rebuilding our network.”
Croatia
United plans to add the only nonstop service between the U.S. and Croatia on July 8, with service to Dubrovnik on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. The airline will operate three weekly flights between Newark and Dubrovnik through October 3 on a Boeing 767-300ER with 30 United Polaris business class seats. Flights will operate Monday, Thursday, and Saturday from Newark and on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday from Dubrovnik and will be timed to connect in Newark to over 65 cities in North America.
Boutique Air expands its network out of the Merced Yosemite Regional AirportNew route will be the third Boutique Air route out of MercedBoutique Air plans to operate the route with the Pilatus PC-12
Boutique Air announced plans to expand its network out of the Merced Yosemite Regional Airport in California. Boutique Air will begin operating nonstop flights to Las Vegas, Nevada starting Thursday, April 22, 2021. The new route will offer round-trip service on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Boutique Air plans to operate its executive style aircraft, the Pilatus PC-12.
This will be the third Boutique Air route out of Merced and provides customers in the Las Vegas region with a quick direct flight to the Yosemite National Park area.
“Several years ago we operated flights from Merced and we are thrilled to offer this popular destination again.” stated Shawn Simpson, Boutique Air CEO. “With the lifting of pandemic restrictions people are really ready to start traveling again. Vegas has been at the top of the request list for our Merced customers.”
Boutique Air is a full codeshare partner with United Airlines and has an interline agreement with American Airlines.
Boutique Air is an FAA certified and US Department of Transportation authorized airline founded in 2007.
SF Airlines flies from Shenzhen to Manila, PhilippinesNew route will provide efficient air cargo services between China and the PhilippinesThe Shenzhen-Manila route will see four weekly round-trip flights
China’s SF Airlines announced the launch of a new international cargo route linking south China’s Shenzhen and the Philippines’ capital city of Manila.
According to Chinese air-cargo carrier, the new route will expand the airline’s network to 79 destinations at home and abroad.
The route is expected to provide efficient air cargo services between China and the Philippines, mainly carrying cross-border e-commerce goods and fresh agricultural products.
The Shenzhen-Manila route will see four weekly round-trip flights using the B757-200 all-cargo freighter, with a weekly air freight transport capacity of more than 220 tons.
Headquartered in Shenzhen, SF Airlines is the aviation branch of the Chinese delivery giant SF Express. It currently operates a fleet of 64 all-cargo freighters.
Cessna Citation 560XL is the world’s most popular business jetThe Citation can accommodate seven passengers and has a maximum range of 1,657 milesCessna Citation 560XL has a top cruising speed of 487 miles-per-hour
Ventura Air Services is pleased to announce the addition of its First Cessna CitationExcel 560XL to its charter certificate. Ventura also added two additional Citation Excel 560XL’sa to be launched in the second quarter of 2021 as part of the planned expansion of its fleet based at Republic Airport in Farmingdale, New York. In November 2020, Ventura first announced the addition of the first Citation and two Bombardier Challenger 604’s to the fleet, which fully launched in the fourth quarter of 2020.
The midsize Cessna Citation 560XL is the world’s most popular business jets because of its comfort, dispatch reliability, and category-leading baggage capacity. The Citation can accommodate seven passengers and has a maximum range of 1,657 miles, with a top cruising speed of 487 miles-per-hour.
All Ventura Citation 560XL’s and Bombardier Challenger 604’s feature numerous amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi. The new planes reflect the private aviation sector’s strength and Ventura Air Services‘ aggressive expansion goals, focusing on point-to-point pricing.
American Airlines will continue to serve as the “Official Airline for Dream Flights”Dream Flights a non-profit organization honoring America’s veterans and seniors living in retirement and long-term care communitiesOperation September Freedom runs August 1-September 30, 2021
Dream Flights, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring America’s veterans and seniors living in retirement and long-term care communities, is pleased to announce American Airlines will continue to serve as the “Official Airline for Dream Flights,” which this year launched Operation September Freedom, a historic mission to locate and honor as many World War II veteran heroes as possible with free Dream Flights in restored WWII-era biplanes.
“This is a significant time in our country’s history,” says Darryl Fisher, founder and president of Dream Flights. “Of the 16 million Americans who served in WWII, only an estimated 100,000 remain—the youngest: 92. Operation September Freedom may be our last opportunity to honor the brave men and women who served during World War II. We appreciate American Airlines‘ generous donation of AAdvantage® miles and its ongoing support of our mission to give back to those who gave.”
“American Airlines is tremendously privileged to support Dream Flights and their incredible mission to honor the men and women who have defended our nation,” said Randy Stillinger, Manager of Military and Veterans Initiatives for American Airlines. “We are proud knowing that several of our team members volunteer their time and talent to provide an experience unlike any other for those who have earned these flights.”
Dream Flights pilots, many of whom fly for major airlines — including American Airlines — and are active duty or retired military veterans themselves, will volunteer their time to fly WWII veterans in the country’s largest fleet of restored Stearman bi-planes. The thousands of dollars saved in travel costs for crew members and pilots traveling to Dream Flights events using AAdvantage miles will help cover the cost of Dream Flights, which are always free to veterans.
Operation September Freedom runs Aug. 1-Sept. 30, 2021.
The continued rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations is accelerating Americans’ return to travelInternational travel intentions remain consistent with early 2020 pre-pandemic international travel intentionsAppointments can be made online 72 hours before your flight and walk-ins are welcome
Costa Rica’s Daniel Oduber Quiros International (Liberia – LIR) Airport has announced an alliance with a local laboratory with over 60 years of experience in the health sector, to provide travelers with antigen testing at the airport in as little as one hour.
Appointments can be made online 72 hours before your flight or walk-ins are welcome. In the coming weeks, the Juan Santamaría International Airport (San José – SJO) will also offer antigen testing services.
The continued rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations, coupled with the additionalstimulus funds and the CDC’s recent announcement that vaccinated Americanscan travel internationally, is accelerating Americans’ return to travel.
TSA has averaged 1.3+ million passenger screenings a day since the beginningof April 2021, which is more than half of the screenings TSA had at the same time in 2019.
While domestic bookings are currently outpacing international bookings,international travel intentions remain consistent with early 2020 pre-pandemic international travel intentions, according to MMGY Global’s 2021 Portrait of an American Traveler spring study. Additionally, 68% of Americans surveyed in the study shared that they would be more likely to take an international trip if the hotel or airline offered COVID-19 testing.
Costa Rica’s pandemic preparedness, successful management of the COVID-19virus, removal of a negative PCR test to enter the country, and ample testing options in hotels, public hospitals and more, make the small Central American country an ideal destination for Americans to book as they ease back into international travel.
COVID-19 testing at Daniel Oduber Quiros International (Liberia – LIR) Airport costs US$65.
help alliance strengthens commitment in home marketsAspects of climate and environmental protection gain focus alongside the main thematic areas of education and work & incomeAid organization of the Lufthansa Group makes important contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations
Despite the massive impact of the Corona pandemic, help alliance is able to support new projects this year. The Lufthansa Group‘s aid organization reacted quickly to the changed situation, among other things developed new digital fundraising formats and thus secured a stable financial situation. This now makes it possible to support seven new projects, five of them in Europe and two in Africa. As it has always been the case, the projects were selected from suggestions by Lufthansa Group employees and will henceforth be supervised by them as voluntary project coordinators together with the respective partner organizations.
With its work, help alliance makes an important contribution to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) “Quality Education” (SDG 4) and “Decent Work and Economic Growth” (SDG 8). In terms of environmental education, the project work is now increasingly focusing on aspects of climate and environmental protection (SDG 13).
“For us as an aid organization, it was anything but easy to be able to support almost no new projects because of Corona in 2020. We are even more pleased that we can now expand our support, especially with a focus on Europe. Many thanks to all those who have supported us with a donation even in these difficult times or will support us in the future.”, says Andrea Pernkopf, managing director of help alliance.
The new projects of help alliance at a glance
Berlin: Digital Future for Everyone
The project supports socially disadvantaged people with an affinity for digital professions in their integration into the German labor market. This is done, among other things, by strengthening soft skills and preparing for possible job interviews.
Hamburg: Inclusion rocks for Everyone
In this project, young people with Down syndrome are supported in their social and emotional development in the long term by means of a continuous music program oriented to their age and developmental needs.
The continued rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations is accelerating Americans’ return to travelInternational travel intentions remain consistent with early 2020 pre-pandemic international travel intentionsAppointments can be made online 72 hours before your flight and walk-ins are welcome
Costa Rica’s Daniel Oduber Quiros International (Liberia – LIR) Airport has announced an alliance with a local laboratory with over 60 years of experience in the health sector, to provide travelers with free antigen testing at the airport in as little as one hour.
Appointments can be made online 72 hours before your flight or walk-ins are welcome. In the coming weeks, the Juan Santamaría International Airport (San José – SJO) will also offer free antigen testing services.
The continued rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations, coupled with the additionalstimulus funds and the CDC’s recent announcement that vaccinated Americanscan travel internationally, is accelerating Americans’ return to travel.
TSA has averaged 1.3+ million passenger screenings a day since the beginningof April 2021, which is more than half of the screenings TSA had at the same time in 2019.
While domestic bookings are currently outpacing international bookings,international travel intentions remain consistent with early 2020 pre-pandemic international travel intentions, according to MMGY Global’s 2021 Portrait of an American Traveler spring study. Additionally, 68% of Americans surveyed in the study shared that they would be more likely to take an international trip if the hotel or airline offered COVID-19 testing at no cost.
Costa Rica’s pandemic preparedness, successful management of the COVID-19virus, removal of a negative PCR test to enter the country, and ample testing options in hotels, public hospitals and more, make the small Central American country an ideal destination for Americans to book as they ease back into international travel.
FlyArystan flies from Aktau, Atyrau and Nur-Sultan to Kutaisi, GeorgiaTwice weekly services will operate with Airbus A320 aircraftKutaisi is located between Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi and the Black Sea resort of Batumi
FlyArystan, Kazakhstan’s fast growing LCC, will launch international services from Aktau, Atyrau and Nur-Sultan to Kutaisi in Georgia from 2nd May 2021.
Twice weekly FlyArystan services using Airbus A320 aircraft will operate from Aktau on Tuesdays and Fridays, from Atyrau on Thursdays and Sundays and from Nur Sultan on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The historic city of Kutaisi is located equidistantly between Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi and the Black Sea resort of Batumi.
FlyArystan is a first Kazakh low-cost carrier based in Almaty, Kazakhstan. It was launched in May 2019 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Air Astana, the country’s leading airline.
WestJet remains focused on a long-term solution that will serve the best interests of CanadiansWestJet continues to advocate for the replacement of mandatory hotel quarantines with a testing regimeGuests with affected itineraries will be proactively notified of the cancellations
WestJet today announced it will extend its temporary suspension of international sun flights to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean until June 4, 2021.
“We are extending our suspension with the clear expectation that as more Canadians are vaccinated, government policy will transition,” said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. “We continue to advocate for the replacement of mandatory hotel quarantines with a testing regime that is equitable and consistent with global standards at all points of entry into our country. Alongside an accelerated and successful vaccine rollout, this policy transition will support the safe restart of travel and help stimulate the Canadian economy, where one in ten jobs are tourism related.”
Guests with affected itineraries will be proactively notified of the cancellations. Since November 1, 2020, WestJet has been providing refunds for all travelers, regardless of fare class booked where WestJet initiated the cancellation.
“We remain focused on a long-term solution that will serve the best interests of Canadians,” continued Sims. “A safe travel-restart framework is the most effective way to support those interests and restore jobs.”
Israel is taking great strides in reopening to international travel this MayThe series of phases and guidelines will be outlined and released next weekIn all phases, visitors will be required to undergo a PCR test before boarding their flight to Israel, and a serological test to prove their vaccination upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport
The Israel Ministry of Tourism, in tandem with the Ministry of Health, announced that on May 23, the country will begin welcoming vaccinated groups of international travelers back into the country through a phased approach after more than a year without tourism due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“I am happy to share the news that Israel is taking great strides in reopening to international travel this May,” said Eyal Carlin, Tourism Commissioner for North America. “We have been working to develop a plan that allows not only for the country to reopen to visitors, but also to ensure that everyone stays safe. We have come so far, and it is for this reason we are adapting this proactive strategy of having a phased opening. 60% percent of Israel’s population has been vaccinated and with the United States and Israel using the same vaccines, we are hopeful that by summer we can open our doors wide and welcome every visitor to Israel who would like to come.”
The series of phases and guidelines will be outlined and released next week. The first phase will feature a pilot program kicking off on May 23, allowing a select number of tour groups to visit Israel – the number of groups will increase based on the overall health situation and progress/success of the program. Individual travelers will be welcomed in a later phase of reopening likely in July (TBD). In all phases, visitors will be required to undergo a PCR test before boarding their flight to Israel, and a serological test to prove their vaccination upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport. In the meantime, discussions will continue to reach agreements for vaccine-certificate validation, with the goal of canceling the need for the serological test.
Air Canada to access up to $5.879 billion in liquidity through the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility programAir Canada will be ready to safely connect Canadians within Canada and the worldAir Canada has agreed to a number of commitments related to customer refunds
Air Canada announced today that it has entered into a series of debt and equity financing agreements with the Government of Canada, which will allow Air Canada to access up to $5.879 billion in liquidity through the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF) program.
“Air Canada entered the pandemic more than a year ago with one of the global airline industry’s strongest balance sheets relative to its size. We have since raised an additional $6.8 billion in liquidity from our own resources to sustain us through the pandemic, as air traffic ground to a virtual halt in Canada and internationally,” said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada.
CargoCity South is one of the most heavily trafficked parts of the airportInnovative camera system reads license plates of arriving visitors and crosschecks them against stored datasetsNew technology delivers a genuine time saving compared to the old approach
Suspension of all mutual tariffs for six months proposedThe measure would go beyond the latest four-month suspension of import dutiesEU-US trade dispute over aerospace subsidies to plane makers Airbus and Boeing dates back to 2004
More than 1.7 billion domestic trips in China are expected to be made in H1 2021In first quarter of 2021, Chinese people made 697 million domestic tripsDuring Labor Day holiday domestic tourist trips will recover to or even surpass the pre-COVID-19 level
China Tourism Academy (CTA) forecasts that country’s tourism revenue will increase 102 percent year on year and reach 1.28 trillion yuan (about $195 billion US) in the first half of 2021.
More than 1.7 billion domestic trips in China are expected to be made in H1 2021, up 85 percent year on year, the academy announced at an online press conference today.
During the upcoming Labor Day holiday from May 1 to 5, domestic tourist trips will recover to or even surpass the pre-COVID-19 level, said Dai Bin, director of the CTA.
Meanwhile, according to a survey by the academy, over 83 percent of the respondents said they are willing to travel in the second quarter of 2021, up 1.02 percentage points and 4.93 percentage points compared with Q1 of 2021 and Q2 of 2020, respectively.
In first quarter of 2021, Chinese people made 697 million domestic trips and the country’s tourism revenue reached 560 billion yuan, increasing by 136 percent and 150 percent year on year, respectively, said the CTA.
“China’s tourism consumption is enjoying a speedy recovery. It will see a consumption boom in the third quarter of this year, especially during the weeklong National Day holiday,” said Dai.