Tag: Connectivity (Page 1 of 5)

Etihad Airways expands schedule with two new destinations

February 29, 2024 / WIL BALDWIN

Abu Dhabi, UAE – In the latest significant boost to its global network, Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced substantial updates to its summer schedule.

This strategic expansion includes the addition of new flights and increased frequencies to existing routes, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global connector and enhancing travel options.

The airline is set to broaden its reach by launching flights to two new fantastic and sought-after destinations: Beginning 15 June, Etihad will operate three seasonal weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Antalya (AYT), Turkey. Operations to Jaipur (JAI), India will start 16 June with four weekly flights.

More, more, more

Starting 15 June, Etihad is increasing its service frequency to a number of key destinations:

The weekly flights to Thiruvananthapuram and Amman will be increased by three, totalling 10 and 14 respectively. Additional services include three more flights to Cairo for a total of 24, Karachi increasing to 17, and Colombo to 20 weekly flights.

The latest expansion contributes to an overall 33 per cent increase in Etihad’s total weekly flights, growing from 635 last summer to 847 in 2024, and extends Etihad’s reach from 65 to 75 destinations, significantly enhancing worldwide connectivity.

Manchester City 787 | Etihad Airways

Emirates increasing flights to Brazil and Argentina starting in December

January 23, 2024 / WIL BALDWIN

Dubai, UAE, January 23, 2024 – Emirates has announced a fifth frequency on its Dubai – Rio de Janeiro route, starting on December 7, 2024. The additional weekly flight on Saturdays will provide increased capacity on its service to the Brazilian city and will support the growing demand for travel on the route. Additionally, the linked service allows travellers to conveniently travel onwards to the Argentinian capital city of Buenos Aires.

Emirates’ increase in capacity on its Dubai – Rio de Janeiro – Buenos Aires route will help the airline to meet market demand and offer customers greater flexibility, choice, and connectivity. With the fifth scheduled service, customers will now have more choice when selecting flights to suit their travel plans.

The additional weekly frequency between Dubai, Brazil and Argentina will operate as EK247 and EK248 in a 2-class configuration. Tickets can be booked immediately on emirates.com, the Emirates App, and travel agencies.

EK247 and EK248 is scheduled to operate with timings as follows (all times are local):

The airline’s boosted services to Brazil and Argentina are expected to facilitate additional connectivity for passengers travelling between these countries and other popular destinations in Emirates’ network including the UAE, Japan, Thailand, Maldives, Egypt, mainland China and Hong Kong, Turkey, South Korea, India, Australia and Indonesia. With Brazil and Argentina being home to the two largest Lebanese communities in Latin America, Emirates regularly serves customers travelling to and from Beirut. Furthermore, nationals of Brazil and Argentina can also enjoy the convenience of visa-free travel to Dubai, making it a popular destination for holidays and short stopovers.

Embraer E195-E2 receives steep approach certification for London City Airport

November 11, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Sao Jose Dos Campos, Brazil, November 10, 2023 – The Embraer SA (NYSE: ERJ) most advanced jet aircraft the E195-E2, has received certification for Steep Approach into London City Airport from EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency). This achievement is a significant development, allowing airlines to operate the E195-E2 at London City Airport (LCY), known for its challenging approach and short runway. Together with the E190-E2, which received Steep Approach certification in 2021, both members of the E2 family are now approved for operations from LCY.

The certification process highlighted the E195-E2’s impressive noise reduction among new generation single-aisle aircraft. It surpasses the requirements of ICAO’s strict Chapter 14 regulation, thereby offering a significantly quieter flying experience compared to the previous E195 model. The E195-E2’s noise footprint at take-off is around 60% smaller than current jet aircraft, such as the E190, and will bring benefits to local residents in terms of noise reductions. The E195-E2’s environmental performance extends beyond noise reduction. The aircraft delivers reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency compared to previous generation aircraft. In 2022, Embraer and Pratt & Whitney demonstrated a successful test flight of an E195-E2 aircraft using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which could push the emissions reduction up to 85% in future.

During a proving flight, the E195-E2 first landed at the airport in July 2022. LCY, London’s most central airport, caters to both business and leisure passengers, offering quick access to continental Europe, making it a preferred choice for short-haul flights. The airport is a vital component of London’s wider connectivity and Embraer aircraft are uniquely able to manage the challenges of LCY operations, with Embraer aircraft accounting for a large proportion of LCY operations on routes as diverse as Edinburgh and Mykonos. To serve LCY, aircraft must comply with the steep approach, short runway, and stringent noise regulations. The E195-E2 could replace the current E190 fleet that existing airlines currently operate at LCY.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including expected delivery dates. Such statements are based on current expectations and projections about our future results, prospects and opportunities and are not guarantees of future performance. Such statements will not be updated unless required by law. Actual results and performance may differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Alstom and partners celebrate Edmonton Valley Line Southeast LRT

November 6, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

November 6, 2023 – Alstom SA (Paris: ALSO), global leader in smart and green mobility, celebrates the November 4 launch of the new Edmonton Valley Line Southeast LRT. This project was delivered by TransEd, a consortium comprised of Alstom, along with Bechtel, EllisDon and Fengate, contributing to the enhanced connectivity of Edmonton’s residents today and for the future. The city is expecting it to serve about 30,000 riders per day.

Under this partnership, Alstom played a pivotal role in the design, supply, installation and testing and commissioning of the LRVs, signalling, communications, power supply and distribution, overhead catenary system, and related depot equipment. This Turnkey project is a Public-Private Partnership (P3) that includes a now completed Design-Build stage, and an operation and maintenance (O&M) commitment extending until 2050.

Alstom also assumes a majority share in the joint venture responsible for the O&M of the system for TransEd. This includes maintaining the complete fleet, tracks, catenary, stations, maintenance facility and all other elements of the system, as well as all aspects of operating the fleet including crew training and dispatching, control room management, customer service and passenger experience. A team of more than 125 experts is devoted to delivering exceptional services to the Edmontonians. Notably, this represents the first LRT system where Alstom is involved in the complete O&M scope of the system.

The 26 Flexity LRVs, each capable of carrying up to 275 passengers along the 13 km system, offer a 100 per cent low-floor design, ensuring easy access and a comfortable ride for all passengers. Step-free boarding is an important part of this enhanced passenger experience for persons with reduced mobility, wheelchairs, mobility aids and strollers.

Alstom takes pride in designing and assembling these vehicles in Canada, creating good-paying Canadian jobs. With 4,500 employees in Canada, including those in Edmonton, Alstom is committed to delivering safe and reliable mobility solutions while actively fostering local supply chains and regional economies.

Forward-Looking Statements

Airbus signs 1.2 billion Euro contracts for support of France’s A330 MRTT fleet

October 24, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Getafe, Spain – 23 October 2023 – Airbus Group SE (Paris: AIR) Defence and Space has signed two contracts valued at 1.2 billion euros in total with France’s Direction generale de l’armement (DGA) and Direction de la Maintenance Aeronautique (DMAe) for the Capability Enhancement and the In-Service Support of the French A330 MRTT’s (Multi Role Tanker Transport) fleet.

Standard 2 contract: Stepping stone of the Multi Role Tanker Transport of the future

The Standard 2 contract provides for the capability extension of the French MRTTs, focused on connectivity as a key pillar and also self-protection capabilities. With the aim of being connected in all circumstances, including jammed environments and extreme weather conditions, the aircraft will be equipped with the MELISSA satcom station.

These new capabilities will convert the French A330 MRTT into a high bandwidth communication relay node, with command and control capabilities, and will build the stepping stone of the A330 MRTT’s integration into the future air combat cloud within the FCAS.

10 years In-service support

The second contract covers the In-Service Support of the ‘Phénix’ fleet for 10 years, plus two optional years, at the Istres Air Base, southern France, home to the 31st Strategic Air Refuelling and Transport Wing. Airbus, as the prime contractor, together with its preferred partners in France, will be responsible for fleet modernisation, maintenance, logistics and technical support to ensure the aircraft’s operational availability. The local Airbus team in France will be doubled to support these activities.

Abu Dhabi returns to British Airways route map

October 20, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Friday, October 20, 2023 – British Airways, part of the International Consolidated Airlines Group S.A. (London: ICAG) will launch daily flights to Abu Dhabi next year, following a four-year hiatus. Available to book from today, the route will begin operating on 20 April 2024, serving the UAE’s capital on a year-round basis from London Heathrow Airport.

Famous for its towering architecture, rich culture, desert landscapes, magnificent beaches and world-class attractions, this Middle Eastern metropolis is enjoyed by those looking for an eclectic mix of culture, relaxation and adventure.

The new flight will be operated by a Boeing 787-9 aircraft in summer 2024 and will boost connectivity to the UAE as it joins flights to neighbouring Dubai, which operate up to three-times daily from Heathrow.

To celebrate the launch, British Airways is offering return fares from £449 in World Traveller (economy) and £1,999 in Club World (business class), available to book before 12 November 2023. Executive Club Members will be able to purchase Reward Seats from £100 + 50,000 Avios.

Maldivian Airlines updates regional fleet with additional ATR 42-600 order

September 20, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Toulouse, France, September 19, 2023 – Maldivian Airlines, the national airline of the Maldives and the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer ATR, have signed a firm order for two ATR 42-600 aircraft. These highly-efficient new aircraft will join the airline existing regional fleet, including two ATR 72-600 and one ATR 42-600, to replace older generation turboprops.

With these modern aircraft, powered by extra efficient PW127XT engines and featuring a spacious and appealing cabin, Maldivian will offer further reliable and affordable connectivity to the archipelago’s communities and businesses, contributing to the Maldives’ economic dynamism while lowering emissions.

About Maldivian

Maldivian, the national airline of the country embodies the spirit of the Maldives by providing exceptional air travel services that showcase the natural beauty and warm hospitality of the island nation. The airline is the leading domestic carrier with a scheduled network comprising of 16 domestic sectors. Maldivian operates the largest wheel-based fleet in the country which includes DeHavilland Dash 8 and ATR aircraft. Maldivian Seaplane, which consists of DeHavilland DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, further enhances the airline’s domestic operation by providing specialized tourist air transportation service connecting customers directly to the doorstep of their chosen resort. Operating from its hub in Male’, the airline provides international scheduled flights to cities in India and Bangladesh.

Air Peace orders 5 new Embraer E175 aircraft for fleet expansion

September 14, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Abuja, Nigeria, 14 September 2023 – Nigeria based Air Peace, West Africa’s largest airline, has placed a firm order for five Embraer (NYSE: ERJ) E175 aircraft. This strategic decision marks a significant step forward and is in alignment with Air Peace’s ongoing strategy of modernising its fleet. This acquisition is in line with Air Peace’s determination to become the operator of the largest and youngest fleet of aircraft in Africa. It reinforces Air Peace’s commitment to enhancing its domestic and regional network connectivity and paves the way for further regional expansion. Deliveries of the 88 seat aircraft start in 2024. The value of the order, at list price, is US$288.3m.

Already an operator of Embraer’s newest and largest jet, the E195-E2, these smaller aircraft will complement the airlines’ existing fleet, allowing Air Peace to dynamically match capacity to demand, protecting yields and route viability.

About Embraer

A global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil, Embraer has businesses in Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense & Security and Agricultural Aviation. The company designs, develops, manufactures and markets aircraft and systems, providing Services & Support to customers after-sales.

Thaicom contracts Airbus for a OneSat flexible telecommunications satellite

September 11, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Toulouse, France, September 11, 2023 – Thaicom PCL (THCOM), a leading Asian satellite operator and space technology company, has selected Airbus Group SE (AIR) for its new generation software-defined high throughput satellite.

Airbus will provide one of its latest designed satellites – a fully reconfigurable OneSat. This Thaicom satellite will provide extended connectivity in Ku-band over the Asia-Pacific region for millions of users. Thaicom has launched and operated eight geostationary satellites. This is Thaicom’s first flexible satellite, allowing for more adaptability on coverage, frequency and capacity which is crucial in such a dynamic region.

Positioned in orbit at 119.5° East, this state-of-the art satellite will enable Thaicom to propose to other partner operators a share of its satellite’s payload capacity, lowering their costs and still ensuring they have separate control of their individual payload capacity and flexibility.

Airbus will design and manufacture the satellite, and also provide ground control segment components. Airbus plans to deliver the satellite in 2027.

Airbus OneSat can be fully reconfigured in orbit, capable of adjusting the coverage area, capacity and frequency “on the fly” to meet evolving mission scenarios. It builds on the heritage of Airbus’ ultra-reliable Eurostar geostationary telecommunication satellites and the company’s constellation expertise with OneWeb. Development of the OneSat programme is supported by ESA, as well as the French Space Agency (CNES), and the UK Space Agency.

United Debuts Wireless Charging Onboard

July 12, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Chicago, Illinois, July 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ – United Airlines (NASDAQ: UAL) today introduced a new domestic first class seat that includes a wireless charging station in every arm rest. The new United First® seat – which also features vegan leather upholstery, 13-inch seat back screens and 18-inch tray tables, Bluetooth connectivity, privacy screens and an ergonomist-designed cushion – debuts on its first 737 this month, and customers will continue to see it rollout this summer. The airline expects the new seat to be on 200 domestic planes by 2026, including 737 NG’s, A321neo’s and 737 MAX’s.

Passengers can quickly charge their multiple electronic devices at once with three types of charging docks in each seat – wireless, AC household-style outlet and USB-C. The wireless charger is located in a compartment of the armrest to give the passenger line-of-sight to notifications and free their hands and tray table.

A growing number of customers prefer a two-screen experience where they use a personal device and a seatback screen simultaneously, so United is upleveling the experience. The 13-inch, high-definition screens are Bluetooth capable and include a remote for those unable to reach the touch screen.

Designated space for devices, food, drinks and more make it easier for passengers to enjoy the full experience. A larger, 18 x 8.5 inch tray table features a built-in tablet holder and enough space for most standard laptops. With authentic Italian quartzite cocktail tables and bottle holders between each seat, passengers don’t have to balance gadgets, drinks and snacks on one tray table.

In the large seats upholstered with vegan leather, passengers will experience more privacy with a 11 x 19-inch divider between neighbors, winged headrests and tray tables that deploy from outer armrests to reduce passenger contact. The seat features a 5-inch recline range, adjustable aisle arm rest that lowers completely and an ergonomist-designed seat cushion that sits 1-inch lower to accommodate a wider variety of heights

In addition to installing the new seats, United will update existing domestic first class seats on more than 200 planes by 2025. United First seats on select 737, A319 and A320 aircraft will be redesigned with new seat cushions, vegan leather upholstery and winged headrests.

The announcement marks United’s first update to domestic first class seat design since 2015. The new United First seat was built with a team of experts, including United’s engineering and inflight teams, University of Michigan biomechanics researcher Dr. Matthew Reed and design firm Priestman Goode.

About Maldivian

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