Tag: experience (Page 6 of 12)

JetBlue Unveils Reimagined Mint, Setting Stage to Change Transatlantic Market

February 1, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today unveiled a reimagined version of its popular Mint experience, which first disrupted the market with a fresh take on premium travel at an “unpremium” price in 2014. JetBlue’s first complete redesign of Mint again sets a new standard – this time on transatlantic flights – featuring 24 private suites with a sliding door for every Mint customer, a custom-designed seat cushion by Tuft & Needle, and countless design touches that help every customer feel at home in the air. As part of the refresh, JetBlue will also introduce its latest innovation, the stunning Mint Studio, which will offer the most space in a premium experience from any U.S. airline (a).

“Mint was an idea to make premium travel across the U.S. less stuffy and more affordable, and its performance has exceeded even our most optimistic expectations of going beyond New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco,” said Joanna Geraghty, president and chief operating officer, JetBlue. “It’s remarkable how Mint’s thoughtful design has resonated with customers as we successfully grew it to more than 30 routes. We put our heart into this redesign of Mint and were inspired by our original vision of offering customers an exceptional experience at a lower fare – which is what JetBlue is all about.”

The first major design overhaul of Mint – designed in partnership with Acumen Design Associates – will launch on JetBlue’s highly anticipated London flights this summer, and a 16-seat layout will debut on a limited number of flights between New York and Los Angeles in 2021.

Introducing the New Mint Experience

We made every seat a suite: Inspired by the popularity of the four private suites in its current Mint configuration, JetBlue’s transatlantic Mint will offer more privacy with 24 individual suites. Every inch of space anticipates customer needs, with features including a tilting 17-inch Thales AVANT seatback screen, wireless charging capabilities, an integrated phone ledge for multitasking, and easy-to-reach in-seat power, as well as laptop, shoe and handbag stowage.

JetBlue is the first carrier to outfit its aircraft with Thompson Aero Seating’s VantageSOLO seat, the company’s revolutionary single aisle seating solution with a herringbone configuration developed and designed specifically for narrow-body aircraft and further customized for JetBlue.
Mint Studio is the pinnacle of space and privacy: The all-new Mint Studio – conceptualized by Acumen and developed in partnership with AIM Altitude – is JetBlue’s latest game-changing innovation, offering the most space in a premium experience from any U.S. airline. Each aircraft will have two Mint Studios in the first row, providing ample room for working or relaxing, and featuring a 22-inch tilting Thales AVANT seatback screen, an extra side table for added productivity, and a guest seat that can accommodate an additional Mint customer during flight at cruising altitude. When reclined, customers can kick back and relax on the largest lie-flat bed of any U.S. carrier (b).
Our proprietary seat design is truly a bed in the sky: JetBlue tapped Tuft & Needle, the innovative mattress company that pioneered the bed-in-a-box trend, to shape the entire Mint sleep experience onboard. Engineered for comfort, every Mint seat is layered with Tuft & Needle’s proprietary T&N Adaptive® foam and a breathable cover to create a cool and comfortable sleep experience unlike anything in the sky. The seat complements additional sleep amenities developed in partnership with the brand, including a convertible blanket with a built-in foot pocket, a memory foam lined pillow with a pillowcase, and a snooze kit with a matching eye mask and earplugs.

Bringing the JetBlue Touch to Transatlantic Travel

JetBlue’s latest version of Mint will feature a thoughtful, residential-inspired design and custom-for-JetBlue touches throughout the cabin interior.

Residential textures, such as flannel-covered privacy dividers, concrete lampshades, woodgrain table patterns and soft, vegan leather-covered seats and headrests, make customers feel at home in the air.
Custom-created suite gradient panels bring light into the cabin, while patterned door shrouds with the signature Mint leaf make a bold brand statement in a functional way.
First-of-its-kind mood lighting enhances the inflight experience, and a welcoming blue floor arc helps direct the customer boarding flow.

Transatlantic Mint product features and design elements, combined with the award-winning service from hospitality-trained Mint inflight crewmembers, will offer an elevated flying experience for a fraction of what other airlines charge for premium seats.

Air Peace Takes Delivery of First Embraer E195-E2 for African Continent

January 29, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

Air Peace, Nigeria and West Africa’s largest airline, took delivery of their first E195-E2 aircraft today. The aircraft is now due to fly from Embraer’s facility in São José dos Campos to join the Air Peace fleet in Nigeria.

The jet delivered today is the first of 13 firm E195-E2 orders, with 17 remaining purchase rights, as announced in March 2019, and updated with three further firm orders from purchase rights announced at the Dubai Air Show in November 2019. The total value of the deal, with all purchase rights exercised is US $2.2 billion. The aircraft are configured in a comfortable dual class arrangement with 124 seats.

Air Peace already operates eight ERJ-145s, and will use the E195-E2s to enhance domestic and regional connectivity. The E2 is able to achieve this both affordably for passengers and profitably for the airline, along with delivering a superior travel experience. This enhanced network will also help feed and sustain long haul operations at the Lagos Hub, such as the UAE route launched in 2019 and South Africa launched in December 2020.

There are currently 206 Embraer aircraft operating in Africa with 56 airlines in 29 countries.

Frontier Airlines Forms Pilot Pathway with ATP Flight School

January 25, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

DENVER – Jan. 25, 2021 – Frontier Airlines and ATP Flight School have formed a “Frontier Direct Program” targeting ATP graduates and CFIs for employment as Frontier Airlines First Officers.

In the Frontier Direct Program, ATP graduates and instructors progress from ATP straight to the flight deck at Frontier after enhanced ATP CTP training that includes additional Airbus A320 full-motion flight simulator experience. The new partnership offers pilots an accelerated path to a rewarding career with Frontier while providing Frontier access to a high-quality pool of qualified pilot applicants, dedicated future employees, and advocates of the Frontier brand.

After completing flight training in ATP’s Airline Career Pilot Program, graduates gain flight experience with ATP as paid flight instructors. Between 1250-1500 hours total flight time, recommended instructors interview with Frontier Airlines. After the candidate selection and interview process with Frontier, applicants receive a Conditional Offer of Employment and continue working towards 1,500 hours of flight experience with ATP. Once ready to transition to Frontier, pilots attend the enhanced ATP CTP course. This tailored course with ATP utilizes full-motion Airbus A320 simulator training to prepare pilots for success at Frontier.

“We appreciate Frontier Airlines collaborating with ATP,” said Justin Dennis, President of ATP. “This program is a tremendous career opportunity for ATP graduates, while helping Frontier access a pool of highly qualified, professional pilots who appreciate the opportunity to fly for Frontier.”

Added Brad Lambert, Vice President of Flight Operations for Frontier Airlines, “Frontier is proud to partner with premier flight schools such as ATP to ensure the quality of our future pilot supply. We have been impressed with the caliber of candidates we have seen. Coordinating with ATP to enhance their jet transition program helps to evaluate and improve on the skill set required to be a safe and successful airline pilot.”

Four ATP graduates have already completed the program in a proof of concept started in 2020. All four pilots have been flying the line with Frontier after successfully completing new-hire training and IOE.

First Officer Walter Copeland III was one of the first participants in the Frontier Direct Program, transitioning from ATP to Frontier in Feb 2020. Walter began flying as a first officer in Jun 2020 – just 29 months after starting training with ATP.

Amtrak Seeking Contractors for New Carrollton Station Project

January 22, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

WASHINGTON – Amtrak is transforming Northeast Corridor train travel by enhancing the customer experience, both in stations and on board trains. As part of this effort, Amtrak is currently accepting Letters of Interest from interested contractors until Feb. 15, 2021, for construction associated work at New Carrollton Station in Maryland. The project involves work within the existing station and the construction of a side platform, and will be closely coordinated with Amtrak for minimal impacts to service.

This infrastructure work is underway in preparation for the introduction of the new Acela fleet scheduled to begin entering service in 2021. The project is necessary to support higher frequency Acela service by expanding the routing options available for high-speed trains in the busy triple-track territory between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, which is also heavily utilized by commuter trains.

Constructed in 1983 as an intermodal facility, the New Carrollton station serves Amtrak and Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC) trains, Washington Metrorail, Metro buses, MTA buses and county transit, as well as many commuting drivers who connect to transit and Amtrak. The New Carrollton Station is served daily by Amtrak’s Acela, Northeast Regional, Palmetto and Vermonter trains. New Carrollton Staton is located on the Northeast Corridor (NEC), one of the busiest, most complex, and economically vital transportation systems in the world connecting eight states and the District of Columbia.

In an effort to make Amtrak the smarter way to travel, we are also upgrading our infrastructure and modernization efforts and improving track capacity and ride quality all along the Northeast Corridor. The New Carrollton Station project also complements other significant station expansion investments at New York Penn Station; the opening of the new Moynihan Train Hall in New York; and further development of stations in Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Visit Amtrak.com to learn more about the Future of Rail and infrastructure improvements.

Rheinland Air Service Appointed First German Dealer for Bell 505

November 28, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, appointed Rheinland Air Service GmbH (RAS) the first German dealer for the Bell 505. Approaching 50 years of business aviation experience, RAS is a proven provider of expert aviation sales and service.

Located in Mönchengladbach, RAS will be home to the first ever Bell 505 dealership. It was established in 1972 and employs 280 staff in four locations in Germany.

The Bell 505 is ideal for private charters, corporate executives, medical evacuations, utilities, public safety, pilot training, and more. The light single-engine helicopter offers a rare combination of rugged high performance, superior fuel efficiency, and a low cost of acquisition and operation. With the only dual-channel FADEC engine in its class, the helicopter has plenty of power at high altitudes. Additionally, the high-tech G1000H all glass flight deck and panoramic windows provide great visibility, full situational awareness, and safety.

Embraer and Porsche Announce Design Collaboration on Limited Edition Duet

November 8, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Melbourne, Florida, November 5, 2020 — Two global companies at the forefront of technology and innovation, Embraer and Porsche, have collaborated to create Duet, a limited-edition, limited-quantity Embraer Phenom 300E aircraft and Porsche 911 Turbo S car pairing. Both known for world-class engineering, performance, and design, Embraer and Porsche will produce just ten pairs of business jets and sports cars, providing a truly seamless experience from road to sky, for the first time in history.

“Duet is an exclusive package developed in a unique design collaboration with Porsche. This rare, refined combination will only be available through this one-time-only pairing,” said Michael Amalfitano, President & CEO, Embraer Executive Jets. “In the spirit of delivering the ultimate customer experience, we are fusing two of the most notable brands in the aerospace and automotive industries, bringing together the pinnacle in production sports cars with the market benchmark in light jets, once again proving that we don’t simply follow trends — we create them.”

Duet brings the Phenom 300E and the 911 Turbo S into perfect harmony. As the world’s fastest and longest-ranged single-pilot business jet, the Phenom 300 series transformed the light jet category. From its revolutionary, award-winning interior design, with an abundance of cabin and baggage space to its highly intuitive avionics, this well-rounded machine delivers unmatched performance, exceptional comfort, and class-leading technology, at enviably low operating costs, with features previously available only on much larger jets. The 911 is the heart of the Porsche product portfolio and has one of the longest and most celebrated traditions in the automotive industry. The 911 Turbo S is the peak of the 911 models and stands for both performance and usability.

“Porsche and Embraer share a host of common values,” said Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualization and Classic at Porsche AG. “As part of our cooperation, we used the know-how of both brands to work jointly on a unique pair of vehicles that are equally attractive for the customer group of jet and sports car owners.” Designed in tandem, Duet fuses speed and style, luxury and power — signatures of both the Phenom 300E and Porsche 911 Turbo S. The most successful business jet of the decade (2010-2019) meets the gold standard in production sports cars, resulting in a uniquely designed jet and car, both featuring a customized interior and paint scheme inspired by one another.

“This is the perfect marriage of car and jet, as personified by the exclusive collaboration logo. The logo brings together the aeronautical requirement of lift — depicted by the Phenom 300E winglet — with the automotive requirement of downforce — depicted by the rear wing of the flagship 911. To further solidify this symbiotic partnership, the aircraft registration number appears on both the car’s rear wing and the sides of its key,” said Jay Beever, Vice President of Embraer Design Operations.

The exclusive collaboration logo is embossed on the seat headrests of the aircraft (lift) and debossed on the seat headrests of the car (downforce), as well as featured on the aircraft sideledge, speaker grills, and mounted near the main door. Each pairing also features a special badge, representing one of only ten delivered. The customer will have the option to select the location of a blue chip, reflective of their position among the ten units, according to their preference.

To create a seamless transition from aircraft to car for this exclusive set of customers, design inspiration for the aircraft mirrors that of the car, and vice versa. Starting with seats, the sew style on the Phenom 300E seat was patterned after that of the 911 Turbo S. The seats in both vehicles feature red pull straps, a Speed Blue accent stitch, and carbon fiber shrouds to create a shared connection. The cockpit seats of the Phenom 300E were redesigned to match the car. In the 911 Turbo S, Porsche introduced a unique color combination for the steering wheel to match the aircraft’s yoke, with a Speed Blue accent at 12 o’clock, as well as the first Chalk Alcantara trim roof lining — an homage to the aircraft. To round out the interior, the stopwatch of the Sport Chrono package features an artificial horizon inspired by instrumentation in the aircraft cockpit.

The aircraft and car share the same exterior paint pallet and general scheme. For the first time, Porsche has combined gloss and satin-gloss paintwork. The upper part of the car is finished with Platinum Silver Metallic, transitioning to Jet Grey Metallic at the bottom. Dividing the two paint colors is a trim strip with lines in Brilliant Chrome and Speed Blue. The car is entirely hand-painted, which is unique to this project and reflective of the Phenom 300E paint process. The alloy wheels of the 911 Turbo S are painted in Platinum Silver Metallic, using a revolutionary laser process to expose a Speed Blue underlay on the rim flange. The air intakes of the 911 Turbo S are painted in Brilliant Chrome to match the leading edge nacelles of the aircraft. The LED door projectors cast the Duet collaboration logo on the ground, and the door sill trims feature “No Step” lettering, like the messaging on an aircraft wing.

The exclusive Duet Porsche 911 Turbo S can only be purchased in tandem with its sibling Phenom 300E. To mark this first ever collaboration between Embraer, Porsche AG, and Porsche Design, Duet customers will also receive a custom Duet logo luggage set with a pilot’s bag and two weekenders, as well as a special edition Porsche Design 1919 Globe timer UTC titanium-case watch inspired by the aircraft’s cockpit.

Ten limited-edition pairs of the Duet are now available for order. Deliveries will begin in 2021.

JetBlue Announces Update on Negotiations with TWU

October 25, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced it has reached a tentative agreement with the Transport Workers Union (TWU), regarding the process toward a contract for JetBlue’s inflight crewmembers.

The agreement is subject to a ratification process which includes final documentation, review, and consideration by JetBlue’s TWU leadership team before being distributed to inflight crewmembers for a final vote.

Ed Baklor, vice president inflight, JetBlue, said: “We are pleased to come to this tentative agreement and look forward to bringing the contract to a vote with our inflight crewmembers. Thank you to both negotiating committees for their efforts over the past two years to reach this agreement.”

Ian Deason, head of customer experience, said: “I want to thank our amazing inflight crewmembers for their commitment to safety and for continuing to always deliver the best experience in the skies during this especially challenging time for our industry.”

Hyatt Announces Opening of Three New U.S. Hotels

October 1, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of three different distinct hotels across the United States. The new properties include the Grand Hyatt Nashville, Hotel Kansas City, part of The Unbound Collection, and the Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia.

The Grand Hyatt Nashville

“Hyatt remains committed to thoughtfully growing our full-service portfolio of brands across the United States,” said Pete Sears, Americas group president, Hyatt. “Hyatt’s purpose of care and our ability to offer guests a customized experience is at the center of these exciting new openings. We believe there is a strong pent-up demand for travel and these new Hyatt hotels are well positioned to offer locally inspired programming, curated experiences and elevated services which our loyal members and guests expect from Hyatt.”

Hotel Kansas City, part of the Unbound Collection

The Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia is a brand new built 332-room upscale lifestyle hotel that includes 22 suites centrally located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia. The hotel features contemporary guest rooms and amenities, with more than 5,000 square feet worth of meeting space, a lobby bar and restaurant with American cuisine, and a grab and go market.

Located in Philadelphia’s desirable Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, the location is steps away from tree-filled parks, outdoor gardens, splendid architecture, upscale dining, boutique shops, and a robust nightlife. Located eight miles from Philadelphia International Airport, Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia connects travelers with popular Philadelphia historical and cultural attractions in the museum district and Independence National Historic Park.

Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia

Alstom Delivers Guadalajara Urban Transportation Network Line 3

September 14, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

– Inauguration of a landmark mobility project for the State of Jalisco in Mexico

Alstom has officially delivered Line 3 of Guadalajara urban transportation network, a new line expected to carry around 230,000 passengers daily. The line covers nearly 21 kilometres, covering 18 stations through the cities Zapopan, Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque. It will be operated by the local operator SITEUR (Sistema del Tren Eléctrico Urbano – Urban Electric Train System).

In 2014, Alstom was selected by the federal Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT – Communication and Transportation Ministry) to provide an integrated system for the Guadalajara network extension. The project, representing a nearly €330 million investment (with €240 million for Alstom), will enhance mobility services for residents across the State of Jalisco, providing significant social and economic benefits.

“Line 3 is designed to be 100% accessible to all, with spaces for people with disabilities inside the cars and dedicated infrastructure at all stations. The line is an example of a modern, inclusive transport system that offers passengers a reliable, safe and comfortable travel experience while remaining environmentally sustainable,” said Maite Ramos, Managing Director of Alstom Mexico.

“We congratulate everyone involved in the inauguration of this very important project for Jalisco. Without a doubt, it will greatly benefit all the State’s residents, changing the way they travel and improving their lifestyle. Alstom’s efficient work to carry out this project saw the company’s experience and commitment contribute to improving the quality of life of residents and proposing complete safety in their travel,” said Manuel Gomez Parra, General Director of Railway and Multimodal Development of the SCT.

The 2014 contract included the supply of 18 Metropolis trains, communication systems, the high-voltage and traction substations, and traffic control systems based on Urbalis 400, Alstom’s CBTC system. The trains are equipped with air conditioning, video surveillance, and passenger information systems.

With these projects, Alstom reaffirms its commitment to continue to lead the way to greener and smarter mobility around the world, developing and commercializing integrated systems that provide the sustainable foundation for the future of transportation.

Alstom has been present in Mexico since 1968, with the development of the first metro line in Mexico City. Since then, it has been an important ally for the development of mobility and urban connectivity, as well as the economic growth of the states of the country where it operates. For 52 years, Alstom has pioneered the introduction of metros and its maintenance in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara. In addition, the company has developed signalling systems and maintenance services for trains and infrastructure for the main railway companies in the country.

Korean Regional Carrier Hi Air Purchases Two ATR 72 Aircraft

June 30, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Airline doubles its fleet as domestic operations continue to grow

ATR today announces the sale of two ATR 72-500 aircraft from its asset management portfolio to Hi Air. With this purchase, the South Korean start-up, which began operations in December 2019 will increase its ATR fleet to four. The two additional aircraft will be delivered in August and October. Supported by the superior economics and versatility of the ATR 72, which burns 40% less fuel and emits 40% less CO2 than a comparable regional jet, the airline is already ready to grow its fleet and expand the number of routes it offers. This summer, Hi Air will launch services on five domestic routes, including to the popular tourist destination of Jeju Island. ATR aircraft are proven route openers, having opened 164 routes globally in 2019.

Hi Air’s capacity for growth at this time also illustrates the resilience of the regional aviation market which is likely to make a faster recovery, with domestic short haul routes proving to be the first to resume as countries around the world begin to lift lockdown restrictions. The airline continued to serve passengers during the Covid pandemic, ensuring connectivity to Korean communities. Regional aviation will continue to play an important role for communities and economies worldwide, ensuring vital access for families, businesses and essential supplies – supporting the economic recovery in a Post-Covid19 world.

HyungKwan Youn, Chief Executive Officer of Hi Air remarked: “Selecting the ATR 72 to begin operations has been important for Hi Air’s early success. Launching an airline is hugely challenging. To be successful, new airlines need an aircraft that is efficient, reliable and offers passengers a good in-flight experience. To be in a position already to expand our operations is because the ATR fulfills these criteria. At Hi Air, we believe that increasing regional connectivity in Korea will benefit passengers, communities and businesses and we look forward to continuing this mission with the support of ATR.”

ATR Senior Vice President Commercial, Fabrice Vautier, said: “Regional connectivity is more vital than ever and this is why the regional aviation segment will be resilient. In many countries, we are already seeing that domestic and regional routes are the first to return and in the case of Hi Air they continued to fly. Businesses, governments and people around the world are looking for solutions to this crisis and regional aviation has a key role to play. Our ATR aircraft have the right blend of economics and operational versatility to support airlines. Furthermore, with their advantage in fuel burn and CO2 emissions, they are the perfect solution to help aviation emerge from this global recovery as a more sustainable industry.”

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