Tag: sky (Page 3 of 5)

Alaska Airlines Boosts 737 MAX Orders and Options to 120 Jets

December 22, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Alaska Airlines [NYSE: ALK] announced that the carrier is buying 23 more 737-9 airplanes, building on its original order and an agreement last month to acquire new 737-9s through lease. The new deal brings Alaska Airlines’ total 737 MAX orders and options to 120 airplanes, which will give the fifth largest U.S. carrier the scale, efficiency and flexibility to expand as air travel recovers.

“We are extremely proud to be announcing this transformative agreement with Boeing,” said Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Air Group. “We believe in this airplane, we believe in our strong partnership with Boeing, and we believe in the future of Alaska Airlines and the incredible opportunities ahead as we climb our way out of this pandemic.”

Alaska Airlines, a longtime Boeing 737 operator, placed an order for 32 737-9 jets in 2012 as part of its fleet modernization program. The 737-9 is a member of the 737 MAX family that is designed to offer more fuel efficiency, reliability and flexibility in the single-aisle airplane market. Last month, Alaska Airlines announced it is expanding its commitment to the 737 MAX program by leasing 13 new 737-9s while selling some A320 jets it had taken on through its acquisition of Virgin America.

The new agreement announced today will add 23 firm orders for the 737-9 and more options for future purchases. In all, Alaska will have 52 options which, if fully exercised, would take the carrier to as many as 120 737 MAX airplanes. The airline said the deal moves it toward a more efficient, all-Boeing mainline fleet that will “enhance the guest experience, improve operational performance and support the company’s growth.”

“We could not ask for a better partner than Boeing and we are delighted to be standing side by side with them as we work together to get our economy back on its feet,” said Tilden.

Alaska Airlines and Boeing leaders announced the agreement during a signing ceremony at Boeing’s delivery facility in Seattle, flanked by a new 737-9 that will be among the first such jets to be operated by Alaska Airlines. In observance of COVID-19 restrictions, both companies limited attendance at the event and addressed the pandemic that has severely affected air travel, expressing confidence in the fundamental strength of the industry and long-term passenger demand.

“Alaska Airlines has done a tremendous job of weathering the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, and is well positioned to return to its growth trajectory and strengthen its standing as one of the top U.S. airlines. With Alaska’s industry-leading reputation for safety, sustainability and customer service, we are honored they have chosen to invest in their future with a significant purchase of additional Boeing 737 airplanes,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are grateful for Alaska’s trust and partnership. Our team is focused on delivering their first 737 MAX jets and helping ensure a safe and seamless entry into service.”

Alaska Airlines says the 737 – equipped with new, more fuel-efficient engines and improved aerodynamics – will use 20% less fuel and reduce emissions by 20% per seat compared to airplanes it replaces. The airline will configure the jet with 178 seats in a three-class configuration. The plane can fly 3,550 nautical miles, about 600 miles more than its predecessor. This additional capability will allow airlines to offer new and more direct routes to passengers. Every airplane will feature the new Boeing Sky Interior, highlighted by modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead storage bins.

Learn more about Alaska’s confidence in the safety and certification of the MAX at alaskaair.com/737MAX.

Total orders: 68 737 MAX Aircraft

Status	Announcement Date	Number of Aircraft
Existing Order	October 2012	32
Separate Lease Agreement	November 2020	13
New Order	December 2020	23

Total options: 52 737 MAX Aircraft

Status	Announcement Date	Number of Aircraft
Existing Order	October 2012	37
New Order	December 2020	15

A Southwest Airlines jetliner taxis to a runway for take off at Denver International Airport as travellers deal with the effects of the new coronavirus Wednesday, June 10, 2020, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Southwest Airlines Announces Initial Flight Schedules For Chicago O’Hare And Colorado Springs

October 28, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Southwest Airlines Company (NYSE: LUV) today published its initial flight schedules for both Chicago O’Hare International and Colorado Springs Municipal airports as the carrier continues expanding to bring the value and Hospitality of Southwest closer to more travelers and offers more destinations to fly for leisure and business travel.

“Our low fares and friendly policies, like no change fees* and bags fly free**, mean more today as they give people the peace of mind to book travel beyond 2020. We’re growing the reach of Southwest as we add more destinations across the United States while bringing our warm Hospitality and iconic Customer Service to more people than ever before,” said Andrew Watterson, Southwest Airlines Chief Commercial Officer and Executive Vice President. “These additional investments in Chicago and Colorado provide even more convenience for our current Customers while also making it more convenient for new travelers to choose Southwest as we begin service from their preferred airport.”

*Southwest has never charged change fees. A fare difference might apply.
**Southwest allows travelers to check up to two bags for free (size and weight limits apply).

Chicago (O’Hare) service begins February 14, 2021
More than 35 years after landing at Chicago Midway International Airport, Southwest will expand its footprint in the Chicagoland area, adding complementing service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport starting Feb. 14, 2021. The carrier’s initial service will offer 20 departures daily from O’Hare, and the new service is available for purchase at Southwest.com with fares as low as:

– $39 one-way nonstop between Chicago (O’Hare) and Nashville (four times daily);

– $79 one-way nonstop between Chicago (O’Hare) and Baltimore/Washington (four times daily);

– $89 one-way nonstop between Chicago (O’Hare) and Denver (six times daily);

– $99 one-way nonstop between Chicago (O’Hare) and Dallas (Love Field) (four times daily)

– $109 one-way nonstop between Chicago (O’Hare) and Phoenix (twice daily).

The number of seats, days of week, and markets for these fares are limited. See full fares, and specific terms and conditions below and at Southwest.com.

During its more than three-decades of service to Chicago, Southwest has grown to become Chicago Midway’s largest airline while also employing more than 4,800 People in the city.

Colorado Springs service begins March 11, 2021
Southwest will also launch service from its fourth destination in Colorado when it takes off from Colorado Springs Municipal Airport on March 11, 2021. The new service links the Pikes Peak region nonstop with up to 13 flights a day to destinations across Southwest’s growing network. The new service is available now at Southwest.com with fares as low as:

– $29 one-way nonstop between Colorado Springs and Denver (four times daily);

– $59 one-way nonstop between Colorado Springs and Las Vegas (twice daily);

– $59 one-way nonstop between Colorado Springs and Phoenix (twice daily);

– $69 one-way nonstop between Colorado Springs and Dallas (Love Field) (three times daily)

– $89 one-way nonstop between Colorado Springs and Chicago (Midway) (twice daily).

Southwest continues growing across Colorado with new seasonal service to both Montrose (Telluride) and Steamboat Springs (Hayden) beginning Dec. 19, 2020. Just a few weeks later, on Jan. 3, 2021, Southwest will celebrate its 15^th anniversary of service to Denver where it now employs more than 4,000 People and currently offers up to 220 nonstop departures per day during peak travel periods.

Delta Brings Back Flights Across Atlantic and Pacific for 2021

August 23, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

As Delta works to restart service in line with the lifting of travel restrictions, potential vaccine availability and the gradual return of demand, customers will see more trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific flights to top business and leisure destinations for the winter 2020-2021 and summer 2021 seasons. While the airline expects pre-COVID level recovery for international flying to continue to lag U.S. domestic, Delta plans to add over 50 transoceanic flights next summer, compared to the summer 2020 schedule.

Delta will focus its strengths in its core markets and with the support of its partners, offer customers a wide array of onward connections.

“While significant hurdles remain in the global fight against the pandemic, we are ready to connect customers to the people, places, opportunities and experiences they’re longing for,” said Joe Esposito, S.V.P. – Network Planning. “Customers flying internationally can look forward to a modernized fleet featuring our latest cabin products and a travel experience that prioritizes their health and the health of our employees from check-in to baggage claim.”

As customers consider future travel, whether international or domestic, Delta’s multi-layered approach to their health and safety ensures peace of mind throughout the travel journey. These include, but are not limited to:

– Sanitizing all aircraft with electrostatic spraying before departure and extensive pre-flight disinfection of high-touch points throughout the aircraft interior.

– Using state-of-the-art air circulation systems with HEPA filters that extract more than 99.99% of particles, including viruses.

– Blocking all middle seats and limiting the number of customers per flight through Jan. 6, 2021.

– Requiring face masks throughout the airport, in Delta Sky Clubs and on board the aircraft

Click the link below for the full story and more details!

https://news.delta.com/delta-brings-back-more-flights-across-atlantic-and-pacific-winter-and-summer-2021

Delta Offers Lounge Access at London Heathrow Terminal 2

August 19, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Starting Thursday, Delta Air Lines’ premium customers and eligible frequent fliers will be welcomed into the award-winning Plaza Premium lounge at London-Heathrow Terminal 2.

Following their temporary move to Terminal 2 from Terminal 3, eligible Delta and Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to enjoy complimentary food and beverages in the Plaza Premium lounge before their flight. Delta offers daily flights between Heathrow and New York-JFK and a three-times-a-week service to Atlanta.

Since the pandemic, Delta has implemented a new level of clean – the Delta CareStandard – so customers can travel with confidence. In line with this ethos, Plaza Premium has also enhanced its cleaning and safety measures so customers can feel confident when they use the lounge before they fly. Customers are also encouraged to wear a face covering and practise social distancing.

“Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Delta and we’ve implemented additional measures to provide peace of mind for customers at every step of their travel journey,” said Shane Spyak, Delta’s Vice President – Europe, Middle East, Africa and India. “This includes working with our airport partners across our global network to provide additional layers of protection in lounges.”

In the U.S., there are limited Delta Sky Clubs open at Atlanta and New York-JFK airports. Customers will find seating that adheres to social distancing guidelines, plus a streamlined food and beverage offering among the measures being taken to limit touchpoints and keep the Clubs clean.

Delta remains the only U.S. airline offering nonstop service between the U.K. and United States that is keeping middle seats blocked throughout the aircraft on all routes until September 30, 2020, to help protect the health and safety of its customers and crew. Seat blocks are automatically implemented to prevent the adjacent seat being booked once a reservation is complete and seats are chosen. Parties of three or more are able to book seats together, including middle seats.

As part of its COVID-19 health and safety measures, Delta requires employees and customers to wear a face mask or appropriate covering when travelling. The airline also has enhanced booking flexibility in place on flights purchased until August 31, 2020, to provide reassurance to customers should they need to amend their plans. Changing an existing booking is easy via the “My trips” area on delta.com.

Furthermore, the airline has a rigorous onboard cleanliness programme, which includes:

– Sanitizing the aircraft before every flight

– State-of-the-art air circulation systems with HEPA filters that extract more than 99.99% of fine particles in the air, including viruses and bacteria, on all trans-Atlantic flights (and mostly across Delta’s network).

– Boarding flights from back-to-front – reducing the instances of customers needing to pass by one another

– Temporarily streamlining onboard food and beverage service to reduce touchpoints

– Providing supplies directly to customers when available, including hand sanitizers in wellness kits

Qantas to Give Final 747 Jumbo Jet a Farewell Fit for a Queen

July 9, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Qantas has announced a program of events to farewell its last remaining Boeing 747 and provide Australians the opportunity to say goodbye to the much loved “Queen of the Skies” ahead of its retirement from the national carrier’s fleet.

The airline will operate three one-hour “farewell jumbo joy flights” departing from Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane, in response to requests from employees and customers for one final chance to fly on the aircraft.

Qantas 747 Fleet Captain Owen Weaver said the 747 has a special place in the hearts of many Australians.

“The 747 has been a magnificent aircraft and it’s fitting that we celebrate the end of five decades of history-making moments for the national carrier and aviation in Australia,” Captain Weaver said.

“Since the first 747 joined the Qantas fleet in 1971, these aircraft have operated numerous rescue flights to bring Australians home during times of crisis and provided a safe passage for many travellers taking their first international flight to or from Australia.

“These three flights will offer the final opportunity to fly on the Qantas 747 before it leaves, with some of our frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts as fond of the aircraft as we are, having spent thousands of hours onboard over the years.

“There is an enormous amount of nostalgia and affection associated with our 747 and for those who miss out on a seat on the flight, they will at least be able to catch a glimpse of the aircraft as it takes to Australian skies for the last time.”

The flights will go on sale at midday on Wednesday 8 July on Qantas.com and will operate on Monday 13 July (Sydney), Wednesday 15 July (Brisbane) and Friday 17 July (Canberra). Economy fares cost $400 and a small number of Business Class tickets will be available for $747 with additional extras included.

Seats will be limited to maximise passenger comfort (in line with other previously operated joy flights).

The flights will be operated on a cost-recovery basis and profits will be donated to the HARS Aviation Museum at Albion Park (Wollongong) and the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach to support their efforts to preserve and promote the 747 legacy for future generations. Both museums have a Qantas 747 on public display.

The final 747-400 in the fleet will depart Sydney at approximately 2pm on 22 July 2020 as flight QF7474.

Prior to its final departure on the 22nd July, Qantas will host a hangar farewell event for employees.

Note: The farewell jumbo jet joy flights will operate with Fly Well protocols in place.

Frontier Airlines Adds 2 Nonstop Routes from Phoenix: Los Angeles and San Jose

February 25, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Low-fare carrier Frontier Airlines today announces its further expansion at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with the only ultra-low-cost, nonstop flights to two California airports: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Jose Airport (SJC). To celebrate this new service, Frontier is offering fares as low as $29*, which are available now at FlyFrontier.com.

“We see tremendous growth opportunities for low-cost air travel in Phoenix and today’s expansion announcement provides significantly lower fares to key California markets,” said Daniel Shurz, senior vice president of commercial for Frontier Airlines. “Our new nonstop flights to Los Angeles and San Jose are an excellent complement to the 15 other routes we offer from Phoenix Sky Harbor. We’re proud to operate at one of the most awarded airports in the U.S. and look forward to continuing our exceptional relationship with the community.”

New routes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX):

Service is seasonal and frequency and times are subject to change, so please check FlyFrontier.com for the most updated schedule.

“Frontier Airlines is an excellent partner at Sky Harbor and we greatly value the service they bring to our residents and visitors,” said Director of Aviation Services James E. Bennett.

Frontier is focused on more than low fares. The carrier offers customers the ability to customize travel to their needs and budget. For example, customers can purchase options a la carte or in one low-priced bundle called the WORKS. This bundle includes refundability, a carry-on bag, a checked bag, the best available seat, waived change fees, and priority boarding.

The airline’s frequent flier program, FRONTIER Miles, lets members enjoy many benefits as well as attain Elite status. Like the airline, FRONTIER Miles is family friendly, and the program makes it easy for families to enjoy the rewards together, including family pooling of miles. FRONTIER Milesis aptly named because you earn one mile for every mile flown – no funny formulas at Frontier. If a customer travels a little or a lot, they will find FRONTIER Miles rewarding.

Frontier operates over 95 A320 family aircraft and has the largest A320neo fleet in the U.S., delivering the highest level of noise reduction and fuel-efficiency, compared to previous models. The use of these aircraft, Frontier’s seating configuration, weight-saving tactics and baggage process have all contributed to the airline’s average of 39% fuel savings compared to other U.S. airlines (fuel savings is based on Frontier Airlines 2018 fuel consumption per seat-mile compared to the weighted average of major U.S. airlines), which makes Frontier the most fuel-efficient U.S. airline. More information about Frontier’s green commitments are available at FlyFrontier.com/Green.

With over 150 new Airbus planes on order, Frontier will continue to grow to deliver on the mission of providing affordable travel across America. Frontier’s young fleet also ensures that the company keeps fares low and that customers will enjoy a pleasant and reliable experience flying with the airline.

New Delta Sky Club Coming to Haneda for Tokyo Games

February 12, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Delta has begun construction this week on its new Delta Sky Club at the former TIAT Lounge Annex on the fifth floor of the International Terminal at Haneda International Airport.

The nearly 9,000 square foot Club is located close to gates where Delta flights will depart to seven of its U.S. gateways including Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Portland, Seattle, and Honolulu, starting March 29 — making Delta the largest U.S. carrier serving Tokyo’s closest and most convenient airport. Delta will also be the only U.S. airline with a proprietary lounge at Haneda.

The newest Delta Sky Club will open early July, just in time for the Tokyo games.

The Haneda Delta Sky Club will feature:

International and Japanese seasonal food offerings that are rotated regularly, including a noodle bar
A full-service bar along with seasonal cocktails and wine selected by Delta’s Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson
Unique design elements and artwork throughout the Club reflecting local culture and history
High-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and power outlets at nearly every seat
Shower suites

Southwest Airlines Opens Its Largest Hangar Facility at William P. Hobby Airport

January 8, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

$125 Million Maintenance facility showcases commitment to Houston through new infrastructure investment to support long-term growth for Southwest

Southwest Airlines opens new hangar facility at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston

DALLAS, Jan. 8, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today officially opened a new maintenance facility at William P. Hobby International Airport, highlighting the importance Houston holds for the nation’s largest domestic airline* and underscoring its commitment to Safety while investing in the Bayou City.

The 240,000 square foot maintenance complex, now the largest in the airline’s network, includes offices, training facilities, warehouse space, and a 140,000 square foot hangar. This allows for the nearly 400 Houston based Technical Operations Employees to work simultaneously on up to six 737 aircraft indoors and has space for an additional eight aircraft outside the hangar bays. It replaces Southwest’s smaller Technical Operations facility at Hobby Airport, which opened in 1988.

“This state-of-the-art hangar will support our Technical Operations Team’s unwavering commitment to Safety and maintaining our fleet to the highest standards,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chairman and CEO. “I’m very proud of our hundreds of Technical Operations Employees in Houston for the work they do every day to support our growing operation from Houston’s Hobby Airport, which includes almost 200 departures per day during peak seasons to nearly 70 destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.”

A Boeing 737 sits inside Southwest’s new hangar at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston

“We thank Southwest Airlines for its nearly 50-year partnership and commitment to the Houston community,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “Between the direct employment of 5,000 local residents, continued growth in flight activity, and this investment in infrastructure, the airline represents $3 billion in economic impact for Houston each year, and that’s something that makes us proud and thankful.”

“Having similar values allowed McCarthy Building Companies and Southwest Airlines to form an integrated team to address the many entities and hurdles involved with constructing such a high profile project at a major airport. This was instrumental in the success of this project and the teams’ ability to deliver it on time,” said Jim Stevenson, McCarthy’s Houston Division President. “We are proud of our partnership with Southwest and pleased to be part of this important maintenance hangar project that will have such a high impact on its operations.”

The airline is currently investing in aircraft maintenance build-outs at Baltimore/Washington International Airport and Denver International Airport, as well as an expansion of its maintenance facility at Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport. Including the projects in Denver and Baltimore, the airline expects to have eight maintenance hangars throughout the United States.

Broadcast-quality photos and videos are available for download at the carrier’s online newsroom, swamedia.com/houstonhangar.

(Left to Right: Mario Diaz, Director, Houston Airport System, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chairman and CEO, Original Houston Technical Operations Employees Brad Shelton, Paul Mould, B.J. Ritter, and Landon Nitschke, Southwest Airlines SVP of Technical Operations)

BOC Aviation Orders 20 More A320neo Aircraft

January 7, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Singapore-based lessor BOC Aviation Limited has placed a firm order with Airbus for 20 A320neo aircraft. Up to 12 of the newly-ordered aircraft will be leased to Colombia’s Avianca Airlines.

Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the A320neo Family incorporates the latest technologies, including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver 20% reduced fuel burn as well as 50% less noise compared to previous-generation aircraft.

Spirit Airlines Finalizes Order for 100 Airbus A320neo Family Aircraft

January 6, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

U.S.-based Spirit Airlines has finalised a purchase agreement with Airbus for 100 A320neo Family aircraft. In October, the two parties had signed and announced a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the purchase of up to 100 of the aircraft – a mix of A319neo, A320neo, and A321neo – to meet the airline’s future fleet requirements.

Spirit is based in South Florida and is the fastest-growing airline in the United States, with flights throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean. The airline will announce an engine selection at a later date.

Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the best-selling A320neo Family, comprising the A319neo, A320neo, and A321neo, will deliver a fuel-burn reduction of approximately 20% as well as 50% less noise compared to previous-generation aircraft, thanks to incorporating the very latest technologies including new-generation engines and Sharklets.

Firm orders worldwide for the A320neo Family now have surpassed 7,300 from more than 110 global customers.

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