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unveiling a refreshed Delta Premium Select cabin experience

Delta unveils refreshed Premium Select cabin experience

By Satu DahlAirlines, Amenities, Catering, FeaturedNo Comments

Delta has refreshed its Premium Select experience on board. Customers are now able to enjoy an elevated dining experience which the airline says offers more options infused with local flavours. These include meals such as braised beef short rib with fingerling potatoes and dijon green peppercorn jus; Impossible Meatballs with polenta, pomodorini sauce and broccolini; honey harissa chicken thighs with jollof rice and stewed greens and mango mousse dessert with mango passion fruit compote.

Delta Premium Select is available on most flights to Europe, including flying on all U.S. routes to the airline’s international hubs in Amsterdam and London.

Delta says it will also phase in new handmade amenity kits from October by Someone Somewhere that feature Grown Alchemist travel essentials and other premium products that make journeys more enjoyable.

Delta’s Premium Select option offers travellers more space to stretch out and relax with a wider seat, additional recline and an adjustable footrest and leg rest on most long-haul international flights.

September 21, 2022

Thompson Aero Seating’s new enhanced VantageXL. Aesthetics and styling created in conjunction with Factorydesign.

Thompson Aero Seating reports increased activity for wide-body seating

By Satu DahlFeatured, Interiors, SeatingNo Comments

Thompson Aero Seating says it is seeing an upsurge in interest from airlines regarding new twin-aisle projects for aircraft such as the A330 and B787.

Airlines are looking at seats such as the manufacturer’s VantageXL, which the company enhanced and enriched in 2022. Thompson Aero Seating says the seat offers ultimate passenger comfort with impressive personal living space, a fully flat horizontal bed, and 100% direct-aisle access. The VantageXL also includes the option for fully enclosed suites and a ‘Business Plus’ enhanced front row.

According to Thompson Aero Seating, with OEM line-fit programmes taking typically between 24-30 months from the start of the project to the first aircraft delivery, airlines will need to start these projects now to have the capacity available for 2024 when the market is predicted to be fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels.

For retrofitting existing aircraft, Thompson adds that whilst lead-times are often shorter, anything between 12 to 24 months depending upon the complexity and scope of the project, these again need to be started soon in order to support the recovery.

Andy Morris, VP Commercial for Thompson Aero Seating commented: “It is really positive that we are seeing such strong recovery and renewed interest in wide-body aircraft. We have some exciting projects already underway and will be looking to increase our capacity based upon the current and forecasted demand for our products.”

September 21, 2022

ST Engineering announces deal for Nok Air Boeing 737-800 Component MRO

By Satu DahlAirlines, Featured, MRONo Comments

ST Engineering’s Aerospace arm has secured a five-year component maintenance-by-the-hour contract to service Nok Air’s Boeing 737-800 fleet.

Under the multi-year contract, a renewal of the partnership in component MRO between Nok Air and ST Engineering, ST Engineering will provide a full suite of component support solutions covering component repair management, pool support and dedicated consignment stock in Bangkok for the Thai budget airline’s fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

Wutthiphum Jurangkool, Chief Executive Officer of Nok Air commented: “We are happy to renew our partnership with ST Engineering and look forward to a mutually beneficial working relationship. Our decision was based on the good reputation and quality services of ST Engineering.”

Jeffrey Lam, President of Commercial Aerospace at ST Engineering, said: “As flying volume steadily returns, we are working closely with our customers to ensure that quality maintenance services can keep pace with their recovery and growth. The renewal of this partnership with Nok Air reaffirms our commitment to be a long-term partner to the airline, and to continue supporting them with reliable and high-quality services.”

ST Engineering supports more than 1000 aircraft and provides integrated component solutions for over 23,500 unique aircraft parts.

September 20, 2022

Bombardier’s Challenger 3500 wins prestigious design award

By Satu DahlBusiness aviation, FeaturedNo Comments

Bombardier’s newest business jet, the Challenger 3500 aircraft, has been honoured as the “Grand Winner” in the Industrial Design/Automotive & Transportation category at the 15th edition of the “Grands Prix du Design.” The win was announced at a gala ceremony in Québec City on 16 September.

The award recognises excellence in design and celebrates the talented professionals who inspire through their creative vision. “I am delighted that the new Challenger 3500 aircraft has once again been recognised for its innovative and exceptional cabin design,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier. “Our talented team at Bombardier designed and crafted the industry-leading Challenger 3500 business jet for our discerning customers, offering them what they look for most in a business jet – an unprecedented cabin experience.”

The Challenger 3500 business jet, which was launched last year, is the latest evolution of Bombardier’s best-selling Challenger platform. Bombardier says the aircraft introduces a redesigned cabin interior unlike any other in a medium-category business jet, combining intelligent and sustainable cabin features that offer the ultimate in comfort and function.

The jet features Bombardier’s patented Nuage seat as part of the aircraft’s standard configuration, as well as other new baseline features such as the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, wireless chargers available throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch, 4K display in its class.

September 20, 2022

Lufthansa celebrates Oktoberfest with special menu and dirndl crews

By Satu DahlAirlines, Catering, FeaturedNo Comments

Lufthansa has announced its flight attendants will be wearing a new, sustainably produced dirndl and serving Bavarian specialties in the carrier’s First and Business Class to celebrate the Oktoberfest season.

Passengers will also receive roasted almonds, Oktoberfest chocolates and gingerbread hearts. Lufthansa’s dirndl crews have been a tradition for many years according to the airline. “We are delighted to continue the 16-year history of the dirndl flights and thus also welcome visitors to the Oktoberfest on the ground and on board with Bavarian flair,” said Dr. Stefan Kreuzpaintner, CCO Lufthansa Airlines.

Jost Lammers, Chairman and CEO of Munich Airport noted: “In the coming weeks, Munich Airport will once again present itself as an attractive gateway to the Oktoberfest, and Lufthansa’s dirndl crews will be part of that.”

The new traditional costume for the long-haul crew was designed and tailored by Munich-based costume specialist Angermaier. The flight attendants’ Wiesn dirndl has silver woven flowers with a colour-coordinated apron and metal clasp on the apron band. The men wear short leather trousers with a classically cut waistcoat made from the same fabric.

The collection is certified according to “STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX” and all components and materials were produced and processed sustainably. In addition, the fabrics were woven exclusively in Austria and produced in Europe to keep transport distances short.

September 16, 2022

GKN Aerospace and DASA announced as Aerospace Xelerated fourth cohort partners

By Satu DahlFeatured, InsightsNo Comments

Aerospace Xelerated has announced GKN Aerospace and the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) as the programme partners for its fourth cohort. Following three successful cohorts led by Boeing and supported by industry partners, this year’s programme will be run in partnership with Tawazun Economic Council, the defence and security acquisitions authority of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Applications are open and startups from anywhere in the world working on digital services and solutions are welcome to apply until 25 September.

Nichola Bates, Managing Partner at Aerospace Xelerated and Head of Global Accelerators and Innovation Programs at Boeing, said: “We are incredibly excited to welcome DASA and GKN Aerospace as partners for another programme cycle. Both institutions have been crucial in the development of our previous cohort, mentoring and providing startups with exceptional industry advice. These partnerships only add value to the startups joining our fourth cohort. Through DASA and GKN Aerospace, cohort four will be able to make valuable connections that will make a difference to their businesses. There’s still time to apply and we’re encouraging startups to get applications in early before they close on 25 September!”

Startups accepted into the programme will have the option to benefit from a £100K investment from Boeing as well as potentially receiving additional funding from partners. They will also have access to strategists and technical experts from industry that support in developing proof of concept opportunities.

Through Aerospace Xelerated, which is looking for startups in the digital services and solutions area, the companies will be introduced to a network of angel investors, venture capitalists and key stakeholders amongst the aerospace industry throughout the 12-week programme. Successful companies will also receive mentoring from a global network of experienced entrepreneurs, mentors and investors, plus more than £100K in programme perks from partners including startup providers Oracle, Amazon, HubSpot, Digital Ocean and many more.

Anita Friend, Head of DASA, said: “DASA is committed to being an innovative organisation and is always looking to deliver in ways that improve outcomes for the government and the impact for the suppliers. We are delighted to be part of Aerospace Xelerated once again and hope to continue our learning journey to better understand how industry is working to accelerate innovation, as well as providing a vital link between government and industry for the cohort participants.”

Hassan Zaidi, Technology Director for GKN Aerospace Defence Business, commented: “At GKN Aerospace, we are always looking for digital solutions to help provide sustainable improvements in manufacturing and operational performance. We believe that programs like Aerospace Xelerated are essential in crafting these services to support and sustain the future of aerospace. We are excited to be involved in the Cohort 4 startup challenge and to play the role of an industrial sounding board for nurturing and guiding the innovation process into Proof of Concept. I am very excited to see what this year will bring.”

September 16, 2022

EVA Air to offer new meal choices in Premium Economy and Economy Class

By Satu DahlAirlines, Catering, FeaturedNo Comments

Taiwanese airline EVA Air is offering new meal choices on board from 1 October through to 31 December.

The carrier’s Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers on flights from Taipei to Europe, the United States, Canada and Australia can purchase these special dining options now by logging into Manage Your Trip on the official EVA Air website or EVA mobile app from 21 days until 24 hours before their scheduled departures.

EVA Air says these menus are among the additional services and conveniences EVA Air’s passengers can look forward to as post-pandemic travel flourishes. Passengers are able to preview menus for all cabins in advance of ticketed flights and pre-select main meals in Premium Economy Class in addition to Royal Laurel, Premium Laurel and Business Class.

The impressive new menus include a creation by chef Huang Ching Biao featuring his signature steamed halibut with chopped chilli paste paired with his seasoned shrimp and lime vinaigrette, chayote vines salad with pine nuts and water chestnut cake with osmanthus for dessert, all served in traditional Tan-banquet style.

In addition, Evergreen Sky Catering celebrity chef Joe Huang has designed a satisfying, meatless main course of artichoke with plant-based lasagne preceded by an appetiser of layered plant-based crepes filled with chopped truffles and accompanied by an apricot tart with oriental beauty tea jelly for dessert.

Both of these special meals are presented on Luzerne tableware, elegantly plated and accompanied by appetisers, breads and desserts. EVA Air says the availability of the meals is limited to eight special meals in Premium Economy and 12 in Economy Class and passengers can upgrade to one of these Royal Laurel or Business Class meals for a NTD800 fee (approximately US$25.75) before departure.

September 16, 2022

FLYR adds dynamic offer and order management capabilities to its revenue operating system

By Satu DahlAncillary revenues, Featured, InsightsNo Comments

Airline revenue operating system company Flyr Labs is acquiring an end-to-end offer, order & inventory management and retailing solution Pribas.

Flyr’s decision intelligence platform, The Revenue Operating System, leverages advanced deep learning technology to provide automated, AI-driven revenue management capabilities that maximise airline profitability and total revenue. The company says its acquisition of Pribas enables airlines to control their distribution strategy and deliver products and services across critical direct channels using next-generation inventory and order management capabilities.

Pribas can reduce carriers’ dependence on legacy distribution systems, accelerate their time to market for new products and capture market share without intermediaries. Airlines such as Condor, Flyr and SunExpress that use Pribas’ retailing and integration platform create new fare choices at will and dynamically price and bundle offers to sell at revenue-optimal prices, regardless of channel.

New Distribution Capability support

Fully supporting the latest standards of the New Distribution Capability (NDC), airlines will dramatically reduce their total distribution costs. Arnulf Pribas, Founder and CEO at Pribas, says: “For over a decade, airlines have aspired to become travel retailers. This transformation requires new operating models and the ability to navigate and harness a torrent of real-time data. By joining FLYR, we can directly distribute FLYR’s bucket-less and real-time optimized fares and ancillaries through all channels that our platform provides.

“Flyr’s system was built for the future that is not bound by legacy Reservation Booking Designators, order definitions, or customer records. Together, we can put the revenue-optimal price and products in front of each customer, wherever they are shopping.”

Alex Mans, founder and CEO of FLYR commented: “Slow adoption of cloud-native and AI-driven technology is often caused by a dependence on legacy Passenger Service Systems, inhibiting innovation across areas such as pricing, inventory and order management, and distribution. Integrating Pribas with The Revenue Operating System from Flyr, our ever-expanding ecosystem of capabilities, enables our partners to personalize shopping experiences and maximise revenue in ways that benefit everyone. With this acquisition, we are expanding our commitment to supporting our clients’ interests as a partner first, vendor second.”

September 15, 2022

LATAM eliminates 75% of single-use plastics on board

By Satu DahlAirlines, Amenities, Catering, Featured, SustainabilityNo Comments

LATAM has made changes to its economy cabin service, eliminating more than 1,200 tons of single-use plastics.

According to the carrier, this is equivalent to eliminating 36,000 500 ml plastic bottles. The new service features items such as cups, cutlery and trays made with more sustainable materials such as bamboo cutlery, reusable trays, kraft paper packaging for cutlery and certified sustainable paper cups.

LATAM group has implemented this on board its regional and long-haul routes as part of the group’s sustainability strategy which aims to eliminate 100% of single-use plastics used in its operations by 2023.

Paulo Miranda, LATAM Airlines Group Vice President of Customers commented: “Caring for the planet is a challenge for everyone, and a necessary destination for LATAM, which is why we reviewed our services and identified nearly 1,800 tons of single-use plastic on board our international flights. Our teams got involved to redefine all details of our service, making a positive change for our customers, and also for our planet.”

According to LATAM, this new development is in addition to the changes in the carrier’s Premium Business cabin, which include the incorporation of reusable bags to cover rest items, as well as eco travel kits which include a bamboo toothbrush with a sugar cane lid, earplugs with packaging made of kraft paper and socks and eye covers made from recycled plastic.

Recycling measures

The group has also implemented recycling and reuse measures. LATAM has a programme called Recycle Your Trip on its domestic flights in Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador which involves cabin crew separating plastic and cans on board. In Colombia, this separation takes place on the ground. In addition, the group also has an ongoing uniform reuse programme in Peru, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Brazil together with women entrepreneurs and partner organisations which gives a second life to the carrier’s employee uniforms.

LATAM’s overall sustainability strategy includes goals such as zero waste to landfill by 2027, reducing and offsetting 50% of domestic emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

September 15, 2022

MIAT_Mongolian_Airlines_Boeing_767-300ER_(JU-1021)_at_Frankfurt_Airport. Image: MIAT

Inflight Dublin announces partnership with MIAT Mongolian Airlines

By Satu DahlAirlines, Featured, IFECNo Comments

MIAT Mongolian Airlines and Inflight Dublin have signed a three-year partnership deal.

Under the agreement, Inflight Dublin will be deploying its Wireless IFE solution, Everhub™, on board four of MIAT’s aircraft that include three B737s and one B767.

Bekhtuvshin Altansukh, MIAT’s Avionic System Engineer commented: “MIAT is delighted to be introducing Everhub wireless in-flight entertainment on board to deliver an enhanced experience to our passengers. We are very impressed with the low-cost nature and ease of use of the Everhub system, both from a passenger and airline perspective. Inflight Dublin has provided a high-level of support to MIAT for this project and we look forward to continue building on our partnership.”

The DO-160G certified hardware will be complemented by the Everhub browser-based software which features a Graphical User Interface (GUI) in both Mongolian and English. MIAT will have access to the back-office Control Centre which enables them to manage aspects of the hardware, software and content offering as well as update their own advertisements. MIAT will also have access to detailed analytics with IFD Insights and will be able to manage duty-free and food and beverage orders through the dedicated crew app.

Barry Flynn, Inflight Dublin’s CCO said: “Our new partnership with MIAT is another example of Inflight Dublin supporting airlines who want to take their first step into the IFE market. There is a variety of in-seat and wireless IFE options available to airlines, but Inflight Dublin’s Everhub solution is fast becoming the default choice for airlines looking for value for money, flexibility and scalability.

“This positive news is just one of many exciting announcements Inflight Dublin will be making over the coming months as we continue to lead in the wireless IFE market.”

September 15, 2022

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