Eurocopter announced today the inauguration of a new maintenance center in Thailand. Located near Suvarnabhumi International Airport, the center has received official certification from Thailand's Department of Civil Aviation (DCA).
Eurocopter South East Asia (ESEA), Eurocopter's subsidiary in Singapore, has made an initial major investment in the new center, covering new facilities, specialized tools and qualification training for personnel. Further investments may be on the horizon as the center's activities increase and this includes the possible hiring and training of local Thailand technicians.
"The inauguration of this maintenance center celebrates the latest link in the network that Eurocopter continues to build throughout Southeast Asia," declared Dr. Bernhard Brenner, president of ESEA. "We are continuously developing our service offer to satisfy our customers by providing them with products perfectly suited to their current needs."
The maintenance center, registered as Eurocopter Thailand Branch, is currently certified for the EC120, AS350, EC130, EC135 and EC155 helicopters. The main activities include helicopter maintenance and training for Thai pilots and technicians. A branch of Eurocopter South East Asia, this center has been set up since June 2009. Being the pioneer and sole helicopter manufacturer with facilities in Thailand (Bangkok), Eurocopter is capable to provide turnkey solution to local customers with prompt service and support.
The first customers to entrust their helicopters’ maintenance to Eurocopter Thailand Branch are the operator Advance Aviation, with their two EC130s and EC135 and the Royal Thai Police with their two EC155s. Royal Thai Police fleet will reach 5 EC155B1 end of 2010.
Eurocopter has been present in Thailand for nearly 20 years. Approximately thirty helicopters from Eurocopter's civil range are currently operating in Thailand.
About Eurocopter South East Asia
Eurocopter South East Asia (ESEA) is the Regional Headquarters of Eurocopter, the world’s leading helicopter manufacturer. Established in 1977 in Singapore, ESEA is in-charge of the sales and customer support activities of 14 territories in the region. In 2008, ESEA achieved a turnover of 85 million euros. With a staff-strength of nearly 200 professionals, the company has developed a successful commercial network of regional sales managers and technical representatives.
About Eurocopter
Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a Division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace, defence and related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approx. 15,600 people. In 2008, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer in the civil and parapublic market, with a turnover of 4.5 billion Euros, orders for 715 new helicopters, and a 53 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors. Overall, the Group’s products account for 30 percent of the total world helicopter fleet. Its strong worldwide presence is ensured by its 18 subsidiaries on five continents, along with a dense network of distributors, certified agents and maintenance centres. More than 10,000 Eurocopter helicopters are currently in service with over 2,800 customers in more than 140 countries. Eurocopter offers the largest civil and military helicopter range in the world.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
ETIHAD TO JOIN SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL USERS GROUP
Etihad Airways has joined the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group (SAFUG), an airline-led industry working group established in 2008 to accelerate the commercialisation and availability of sustainable biofuels.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: ““Etihad recognises the need for step-changes in aviation to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and meet our industry’s carbon reduction goal. We also recognise that any fuel alternatives must be morally, socially and environmentally acceptable, while not compromising the future sustainability of the aviation industry.”
SAFUG members are bound by stringent criteria for the development of non fossil fuels, including the following:
The development of plant sources must be undertaken in a manner that is non-competitive with food, with biodiversity impacts minimised and without jeopardizing drinking water supplies. The total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from plant growth, harvesting, processing and end-use should be significantly less than that from fossil sources. In developing economies, development projects should include provisions or outcomes that improve socio-economic conditions for small-scale farmers and their families and that do not require the involuntary displacement of local populations. High conservation value areas and native eco-systems should not be cleared and converted for jet fuel plant source development.
Each SAFUG member has pledged to work through the Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), a global multi-stakeholder initiative consisting of leading environmental organizations, financiers, biofuel developers, biofuel-interested petroleum companies, the transportation sector, developing-world poverty alleviation associations, research entities, and governments.
“Abu Dhabi, our home base, has itself made a strong commitment towards sustainability and in the promotion of renewable energy through the establishment of Masdar City, which will the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency,” Mr Hogan said.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, said: ““Etihad recognises the need for step-changes in aviation to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and meet our industry’s carbon reduction goal. We also recognise that any fuel alternatives must be morally, socially and environmentally acceptable, while not compromising the future sustainability of the aviation industry.”
SAFUG members are bound by stringent criteria for the development of non fossil fuels, including the following:
The development of plant sources must be undertaken in a manner that is non-competitive with food, with biodiversity impacts minimised and without jeopardizing drinking water supplies. The total lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from plant growth, harvesting, processing and end-use should be significantly less than that from fossil sources. In developing economies, development projects should include provisions or outcomes that improve socio-economic conditions for small-scale farmers and their families and that do not require the involuntary displacement of local populations. High conservation value areas and native eco-systems should not be cleared and converted for jet fuel plant source development.
Each SAFUG member has pledged to work through the Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), a global multi-stakeholder initiative consisting of leading environmental organizations, financiers, biofuel developers, biofuel-interested petroleum companies, the transportation sector, developing-world poverty alleviation associations, research entities, and governments.
“Abu Dhabi, our home base, has itself made a strong commitment towards sustainability and in the promotion of renewable energy through the establishment of Masdar City, which will the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency,” Mr Hogan said.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
Air China Signs Exclusive Partnership with Expedia Affiliate Network
Air China's overseas customers can now book accommodation and flights Air China has signed an exclusive partnership with the Expedia Affiliate Network (EAN). More than 100,000 EAN products will now be available to Air China customers across 27 overseas markets.
More Product Offerings on Local Sites
This exclusive deal marks the first time that Air China has worked with a partner to offer global customers accommodation. Through this partnership, customers across 27 markets, including the UAE, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Indonesia, Italy, Korea, Russia, the UK and USA, can now book
hotels at the same time as booking flights.
To streamline the booking process, the majority EAN's content will be localized across global markets, with Expedia providing local language customer service support.
Mr. Jia Tie Sheng, Managing Director Sales Air China, comments, "We are constantly reviewing the functionality of our website to ensure that we are offering our users products relevant to their needs. In order to ensure efficiency and breadth of choice it was a natural progression for us to sign the partnership with EAN as they were able to work with us to create a bespoke interface that best meets the needs of our customers and our business. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with EAN."
Jens Uwe Parkitny, the Managing Director of EAN APAC, said, "We worked closely with Air China to understand their business and customer needs, and offered a solution that could bring a significant increase in customers and revenue. The ease of integration and usability of our interface is one of our key selling points and the reason we were able to partner with Air China. We look forward to working with them and seeing this partnership develop."
Air China: Carrying China, Spanning the World
Air China is China's only national flag carrier and a Star Alliance member. By a fleet of 256 Airbus and Boeing aircraft, our routes serve 32 countries and regions. Thanks to our admission to the Star Alliance, our route network, with Beijing as its hub, is able to place 912 destinations in 159 countries within our reach. Air China now has 10 million PhoenixMiles members.
More Product Offerings on Local Sites
This exclusive deal marks the first time that Air China has worked with a partner to offer global customers accommodation. Through this partnership, customers across 27 markets, including the UAE, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Indonesia, Italy, Korea, Russia, the UK and USA, can now book
hotels at the same time as booking flights.
To streamline the booking process, the majority EAN's content will be localized across global markets, with Expedia providing local language customer service support.
Mr. Jia Tie Sheng, Managing Director Sales Air China, comments, "We are constantly reviewing the functionality of our website to ensure that we are offering our users products relevant to their needs. In order to ensure efficiency and breadth of choice it was a natural progression for us to sign the partnership with EAN as they were able to work with us to create a bespoke interface that best meets the needs of our customers and our business. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with EAN."
Jens Uwe Parkitny, the Managing Director of EAN APAC, said, "We worked closely with Air China to understand their business and customer needs, and offered a solution that could bring a significant increase in customers and revenue. The ease of integration and usability of our interface is one of our key selling points and the reason we were able to partner with Air China. We look forward to working with them and seeing this partnership develop."
Air China: Carrying China, Spanning the World
Air China is China's only national flag carrier and a Star Alliance member. By a fleet of 256 Airbus and Boeing aircraft, our routes serve 32 countries and regions. Thanks to our admission to the Star Alliance, our route network, with Beijing as its hub, is able to place 912 destinations in 159 countries within our reach. Air China now has 10 million PhoenixMiles members.
Turkish Airlines orders A330 Freighters Boosting total orders to 69 from 10 customers
Turkish Airlines has signed a firm order for the purchase of two A330-200F freighter aircraft, becoming a new customer for this aircraft type. The aircraft will be powered by Rolls Royce engines and will join Turkish Airlines’ existing all Airbus freighter fleet of four Airbus A310s from Autumn 2010.The aircraft will be used to support Turkish Airlines ambitious growth plans, which include the expansion of its cargo operations.
“The flexibility and efficiency of the A330-200 freighter, together with its commonality with our existing Airbus fleet made the new A330 Freighter the ideal choice for expansion of our cargo operations” said Dr Candan Karlitekin, Chairman of Turkish Airlines.
John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, said “With its low costs and adaptable operational configurations, the A330-200F is the best choice in today’s freight market. We have a long history with Turkish Airlines and are pleased that they have chosen the newest member of the Airbus family for their cargo operations.”
Turkish Airlines has operated Airbus aircraft since 1985, and currently has a fleet of 67 Airbus aircraft, including four A310s, 47 A320 family aircraft, seven A330s and nine A340s.
The A330-200 Freighter made its first flight on 5th November and is on track for certification and deliveries starting in 2010. Total orders for the aircraft stand at 69 from 10 customers less than one month after first flight. The Airbus Global Market Forecast predicts a need for over 1,600 mid-sized freighters in the next 20 years.
“The flexibility and efficiency of the A330-200 freighter, together with its commonality with our existing Airbus fleet made the new A330 Freighter the ideal choice for expansion of our cargo operations” said Dr Candan Karlitekin, Chairman of Turkish Airlines.
John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, said “With its low costs and adaptable operational configurations, the A330-200F is the best choice in today’s freight market. We have a long history with Turkish Airlines and are pleased that they have chosen the newest member of the Airbus family for their cargo operations.”
Turkish Airlines has operated Airbus aircraft since 1985, and currently has a fleet of 67 Airbus aircraft, including four A310s, 47 A320 family aircraft, seven A330s and nine A340s.
The A330-200 Freighter made its first flight on 5th November and is on track for certification and deliveries starting in 2010. Total orders for the aircraft stand at 69 from 10 customers less than one month after first flight. The Airbus Global Market Forecast predicts a need for over 1,600 mid-sized freighters in the next 20 years.
ETIHAD TO OPERATE DAILY FLIGHTS TO KATHMANDU
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will increase its Abu Dhabi-Kathmandu services from four to seven flights per week from January 2010.
Etihad’s flights to Kathmandu, which were launched in December 2008, have proved extremely popular with travellers, providing high volumes of traffic into Abu Dhabi and the Middle East, as well as transit traffic to destinations including London and Frankfurt in Western Europe, and New York and Chicago in North America.
The success of the route is evident in average load factors of between 80 and 90 per cent on both in- and outbound flights. This is attributable to growth in corporate travel and also a positive trend in inbound tourism to Nepal, and the additional flights were introduced to satisfy these customers’ demands for daily frequencies, specifically.
Joost den Hartog, Etihad Airways’ regional general manager for North Asia and the Indian Subcontinent, said: “In addition to the strong demand for flights from Nepalese nationals who work in Abu Dhabi and further afield, we have seen a strengthening in corporate and leisure traffic, which is important to the economic development of Nepal. Etihad is pleased to support this growth with an increase in its services.”
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
Etihad’s flights to Kathmandu, which were launched in December 2008, have proved extremely popular with travellers, providing high volumes of traffic into Abu Dhabi and the Middle East, as well as transit traffic to destinations including London and Frankfurt in Western Europe, and New York and Chicago in North America.
The success of the route is evident in average load factors of between 80 and 90 per cent on both in- and outbound flights. This is attributable to growth in corporate travel and also a positive trend in inbound tourism to Nepal, and the additional flights were introduced to satisfy these customers’ demands for daily frequencies, specifically.
Joost den Hartog, Etihad Airways’ regional general manager for North Asia and the Indian Subcontinent, said: “In addition to the strong demand for flights from Nepalese nationals who work in Abu Dhabi and further afield, we have seen a strengthening in corporate and leisure traffic, which is important to the economic development of Nepal. Etihad is pleased to support this growth with an increase in its services.”
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates based in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi. Currently Etihad offers flights to over 55 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Lufthansa celebrates 50 years of success in Thailand Airline continues to invest for customer services / special anniversary fares for customers
Lufthansa is celebrating 50 successful years in the Thai market. What the German airline began in 1959 with just a single weekly flight from Germany to Bangkok, has today become one of the great successes in Thai-German economic relations. Today, Lufthansa Group Airlines Lufthansa, SWISS and Austrian Airlines fly 21 times a week from the Thai gateway Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Frankfurt, Zurich and Vienna, offering best connections to Europe and beyond. Furthermore the airline connects Bangkok conveniently with Kuala-Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City. The weekly capacity from Thailand to Europe has increased from 80 seats in 1959 to more than 6000 seats, making Lufthansa the largest European Airline group in the Thai market.
“We are very proud of our lasting success and our sustainable presence in the Thai market. Our Thai customers love to fly Lufthansa Quality made in Germany with our distinctly added Thai service features”, says Thierry Antinori, Member of the Lufthansa German Airlines Board - Marketing & Sales, as he visited Thailand on the occasion of the airline’s anniversary. “We are very proud of three important achievements: The fact that we gain more and more Thai customers year on year, our success in the Market as full service aviation group, employing 1000 Thai people, and our unique and long lasting partnership with Thai Airways, that has turned into a truly valuable friendship for our companies and our people”, says Antinori.
Both Thailand and Germany have changed considerably in the past. Germany being reunified for 20 years now and Thailand achieving great economic success and progress, turning the nation in an economic powerhouse for the whole region of South East Asia, says Antinori. “For our Thai industry-customers, and for outbound tourist groups, thanks to our high quality and network of 120 destinations in Europe, we have become the leading European carrier in Thailand. With our dedicated Thai-style service approach and our Thai flight attendants, Lufthansa also is the most Thai-European airline.
Lufthansa is celebrating its anniversary in Thailand during one of the most serious international economic crises and despite the slump in demand has maintained its offer of flights and range of services, but added even more high-class conveniences, like new airport lounges at major Lufthansa hubs. Lufthansa is currently investing in an even broader network by new partners like Lufthansa Italia and Austrian Airlines, to offer its customers more choices. Lufthansa also just recently has started a new code-sharing programme with U.S. partner Jet Blue. This offer will also be available for Thai passengers, allowing even more flights and destinations in North America. “We firmly believe in the Thai market and we have many special anniversary fares in the market”, says Antinori. “This is a great time to fly.”
Now Lufthansa is celebrating the 50th anniversary with yet another new sales campaign, offering Thai customers even more fast connections to Europe and beyond. On the airline’s website www.Lufthansa.com, customers can take advantage of special discount anniversary rates to destinations all over the world for a limited time.
“We are very proud of our lasting success and our sustainable presence in the Thai market. Our Thai customers love to fly Lufthansa Quality made in Germany with our distinctly added Thai service features”, says Thierry Antinori, Member of the Lufthansa German Airlines Board - Marketing & Sales, as he visited Thailand on the occasion of the airline’s anniversary. “We are very proud of three important achievements: The fact that we gain more and more Thai customers year on year, our success in the Market as full service aviation group, employing 1000 Thai people, and our unique and long lasting partnership with Thai Airways, that has turned into a truly valuable friendship for our companies and our people”, says Antinori.
Both Thailand and Germany have changed considerably in the past. Germany being reunified for 20 years now and Thailand achieving great economic success and progress, turning the nation in an economic powerhouse for the whole region of South East Asia, says Antinori. “For our Thai industry-customers, and for outbound tourist groups, thanks to our high quality and network of 120 destinations in Europe, we have become the leading European carrier in Thailand. With our dedicated Thai-style service approach and our Thai flight attendants, Lufthansa also is the most Thai-European airline.
Lufthansa is celebrating its anniversary in Thailand during one of the most serious international economic crises and despite the slump in demand has maintained its offer of flights and range of services, but added even more high-class conveniences, like new airport lounges at major Lufthansa hubs. Lufthansa is currently investing in an even broader network by new partners like Lufthansa Italia and Austrian Airlines, to offer its customers more choices. Lufthansa also just recently has started a new code-sharing programme with U.S. partner Jet Blue. This offer will also be available for Thai passengers, allowing even more flights and destinations in North America. “We firmly believe in the Thai market and we have many special anniversary fares in the market”, says Antinori. “This is a great time to fly.”
Now Lufthansa is celebrating the 50th anniversary with yet another new sales campaign, offering Thai customers even more fast connections to Europe and beyond. On the airline’s website www.Lufthansa.com, customers can take advantage of special discount anniversary rates to destinations all over the world for a limited time.
ETIHAD AIRWAYS LAUNCHES COMPLIMENTARY ACCOMODATION FOR GUESTS TRAVELLING ON ITS DAILY MORNING FLIGHT (EY407)
Etihad Airways, The National Airline of the United Arab Emirates, which operates highly popular twice daily flights from Bangkok to Abu Dhabi and onwards to over 50 destinations around the globe, offers its guests from upcountry traveling on the Etihad morning flight (EY407) one night complimentary accommodation in Bangkok.
For Business Class, one night accommodation and a luxury limousine service transfer to Suvarnabhumi Airport will be available for guests traveling on Etihad Airways morning flight EY407. For Coral Economy Class, one night complimentary accommodation will be available on this morning flight (Coral Economy Class guests will need to arrange for their own airport transfer).
Mr. Florian Preuss, Country Manager Thailand and Mekong region, Etihad Airways said: “Following our recent introduction of limousine and van services for passengers in Pattaya and the Eastern Seaboard, we are extending our on-ground services to our guests living upcountry with one night complimentary accommodation in Bangkok for their further ease and convenience.
“A night’s accommodation as well as a premium transfer service will benefit Etihad guests who are on our early-morning flight, making their airport arrival so much more comfortable. They will be able to relax and gain a good night’s rest prior to the journey the next morning, with luxury limousine service ready to take them to the airport for checking in with Etihad Airways”, concluded Florian.
Etihad’s complimentary accommodation is available from now until 31 December 2009.
For Business Class, one night accommodation and a luxury limousine service transfer to Suvarnabhumi Airport will be available for guests traveling on Etihad Airways morning flight EY407. For Coral Economy Class, one night complimentary accommodation will be available on this morning flight (Coral Economy Class guests will need to arrange for their own airport transfer).
Mr. Florian Preuss, Country Manager Thailand and Mekong region, Etihad Airways said: “Following our recent introduction of limousine and van services for passengers in Pattaya and the Eastern Seaboard, we are extending our on-ground services to our guests living upcountry with one night complimentary accommodation in Bangkok for their further ease and convenience.
“A night’s accommodation as well as a premium transfer service will benefit Etihad guests who are on our early-morning flight, making their airport arrival so much more comfortable. They will be able to relax and gain a good night’s rest prior to the journey the next morning, with luxury limousine service ready to take them to the airport for checking in with Etihad Airways”, concluded Florian.
Etihad’s complimentary accommodation is available from now until 31 December 2009.
THAI Cargo Launches “Easy Point” Promotion
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is introducing the “Easy Point” promotion. THAI’s Cargo & Mail Commercial Department will launch the reward campaign to benefit its Bangkok Sales Agents and to collect points for every 50 kilograms of cargo shipped from Bangkok to all of THAI’s international destinations.
Mr. Pruet Boobphakam, THAI’s Managing Director Cargo & Mail Commercial Department, said that the “Easy Point” program provides an opportunity for THAI Cargo Bangkok Sales Agents to obtain points for every 50 kilograms of cargo outbound from Bangkok to all of THAI’s international destinations. A privileged points collective program offers returns to THAI Cargo sales agents to exchange for many rewards, such as Royal Orchid Holiday Tour Package, including air ticket and accommodation, spa and package, Royal Silk Lounge access card at Suvarnabhumi Airport and a souvenir from THAI Shop. In addition, the campaign allows the recipients to transfer their redeemed rewards to other people.
The “Easy Point” Promotion with THAI Cargo starts today until 30 September 2009 and the reward redemption process will be validated from 15 November – 30 December 2009.
Mr. Pruet Boobphakam, THAI’s Managing Director Cargo & Mail Commercial Department, said that the “Easy Point” program provides an opportunity for THAI Cargo Bangkok Sales Agents to obtain points for every 50 kilograms of cargo outbound from Bangkok to all of THAI’s international destinations. A privileged points collective program offers returns to THAI Cargo sales agents to exchange for many rewards, such as Royal Orchid Holiday Tour Package, including air ticket and accommodation, spa and package, Royal Silk Lounge access card at Suvarnabhumi Airport and a souvenir from THAI Shop. In addition, the campaign allows the recipients to transfer their redeemed rewards to other people.
The “Easy Point” Promotion with THAI Cargo starts today until 30 September 2009 and the reward redemption process will be validated from 15 November – 30 December 2009.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Humanitarian aid flown in to “Action Against Hunger”, Dubai
Vital equipment to support NGO’s worldwide programmes
Cargo to arrive in A380 on the way to the Dubai airshow
An Airbus A380 arriving for the Dubai Airshow will carry with it eight tonnes of humanitarian aid. The delivery, facilitated by the Airbus Corporate Foundation, a non-commercial arm of the leading aircraft manufacturer, and its partners, will boost crucial stocks at Action Against Hunger’s hub in the emirate – strategically located to serve a global effort.
Founded in France in 1979, Action Against Hunger is recognised as one of the most important humanitarian organisations combating hunger and malnutrition worldwide. It is an issue that affects approximately one billion people across the globe, with most lacking access to clean water leading to disease and malnutrition, and remains the largest single contributor to child mortality. Today’s delivery of water purification equipment, more than 50 cubic metres, the equivalent of two 20’ standard sea freight containers, to the non-governmental organisation’s (NGO) Dubai base is central to its efforts.
Tom Enders, Head of the Airbus Corporate Foundation and President and CEO of Airbus, said: “Thanks to all our partners, the Airbus Corporate Foundation has been able to support Action Against Hunger by transporting vital emergency sanitation equipment to one of the key storage hubs. This is a great example of how aviation, being a key enabler of global economic and social development and an essential resource for humanitarian efforts, can help in a very tangible way. We hope this to be the start of a long-term partnership between both our organisations.”
Action Against Hunger is increasing stocks at its Dubai base to capitalise on the emirate’s strategic location from which to serve a coordinated global effort in response to emergency situations elsewhere in the world. The non-profit, non-religious organisation has established an international network to deliver life-saving programmes in some 45 countries, specialising in emergency situations of conflict, natural disaster and chronic food insecurity. A primary concern of these projects is to facilitate the provision of – and access to – safe water through programmes that currently reach four million people each year.
Erland Egiziano, Logistics Director Action Against Hunger, said: “More than one billion people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water and 2.6 billion lack basic sanitation. These issues are the root cause of many infections that lead to sickness and ultimately malnutrition and are responsible for 2.2 million preventable deaths each year – mostly among children. In our efforts to eliminate hunger, clean water is as essential as food. The equipment being delivered today by the Airbus Corporate Foundation is vital in restoring dignity, self-sufficiency and independence for vulnerable communities and saving the lives of children and their families throughout the world.”
The Airbus Corporate Foundation was established in December 2008 to support humanitarian causes through good will flights, youth development in the communities in which it operates, and environmental issues in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
Cargo to arrive in A380 on the way to the Dubai airshow
An Airbus A380 arriving for the Dubai Airshow will carry with it eight tonnes of humanitarian aid. The delivery, facilitated by the Airbus Corporate Foundation, a non-commercial arm of the leading aircraft manufacturer, and its partners, will boost crucial stocks at Action Against Hunger’s hub in the emirate – strategically located to serve a global effort.
Founded in France in 1979, Action Against Hunger is recognised as one of the most important humanitarian organisations combating hunger and malnutrition worldwide. It is an issue that affects approximately one billion people across the globe, with most lacking access to clean water leading to disease and malnutrition, and remains the largest single contributor to child mortality. Today’s delivery of water purification equipment, more than 50 cubic metres, the equivalent of two 20’ standard sea freight containers, to the non-governmental organisation’s (NGO) Dubai base is central to its efforts.
Tom Enders, Head of the Airbus Corporate Foundation and President and CEO of Airbus, said: “Thanks to all our partners, the Airbus Corporate Foundation has been able to support Action Against Hunger by transporting vital emergency sanitation equipment to one of the key storage hubs. This is a great example of how aviation, being a key enabler of global economic and social development and an essential resource for humanitarian efforts, can help in a very tangible way. We hope this to be the start of a long-term partnership between both our organisations.”
Action Against Hunger is increasing stocks at its Dubai base to capitalise on the emirate’s strategic location from which to serve a coordinated global effort in response to emergency situations elsewhere in the world. The non-profit, non-religious organisation has established an international network to deliver life-saving programmes in some 45 countries, specialising in emergency situations of conflict, natural disaster and chronic food insecurity. A primary concern of these projects is to facilitate the provision of – and access to – safe water through programmes that currently reach four million people each year.
Erland Egiziano, Logistics Director Action Against Hunger, said: “More than one billion people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water and 2.6 billion lack basic sanitation. These issues are the root cause of many infections that lead to sickness and ultimately malnutrition and are responsible for 2.2 million preventable deaths each year – mostly among children. In our efforts to eliminate hunger, clean water is as essential as food. The equipment being delivered today by the Airbus Corporate Foundation is vital in restoring dignity, self-sufficiency and independence for vulnerable communities and saving the lives of children and their families throughout the world.”
The Airbus Corporate Foundation was established in December 2008 to support humanitarian causes through good will flights, youth development in the communities in which it operates, and environmental issues in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
ETIHAD DETAILS US $750 MILLION INVESTMENT PACKAGE AT DUBAI AIR SHOW
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will highlight a US $750 million investment in its workforce, fleet, in-flight service and planning and resourcing systems at this week’s Dubai Air Show.
The airline, which earlier in the month celebrated its sixth anniversary, said the investments would address key strategic elements of the business to support the company’s position as the world’s leading airline.
Speaking at a press conference on the second day of the Dubai Air Show, James Hogan, Etihad Airway’s chief executive officer, said: “Etihad has taken great strides forward in only six years. We have created a compelling brand, an outstanding service offer and a strong hub at Abu Dhabi Airport. That progress was recognised last week when Etihad was named the world’s leading airline at the World Travel Awards.
“The record-breaking aircraft and engine orders we made at the Farnborough and Paris air shows demonstrate our transformation into a major player in global aviation. We have set the foundations for future growth and development.
“Now we are taking the next steps. Over the course of this week, we will announce a series of strategic contracts, partnerships and initiatives which will address key strategic elements of our business and allow us to deliver on our long term plans.
Mr Hogan said the contracts and signings would provide maintenance, retro-fitting, cabin upgrades and component support for aircraft currently in the fleet or being delivered over the coming years.
In addition, the airline will also announce deals which will see the introduction of state-of-the-art software systems aimed at improving the airline’s flight planning and cabin and flight crew resourcing.
The airline will also further boost its Emiritisation programme, with an agreement with the Institute of Applied technology to provide students with opportunities to build successful future careers with Etihad.
The other announcements include:
A contract with Panasonic to install one of the world’s most comprehensive in-flight entertainment systems on board our new A330-300 fleet and new Boeing B777 aircraft, scheduled for delivery from December 2009 and 2011, respectively. The new Panasonic eX2 system boasts a host of world-leading entertainment, information and functional features for people in all cabins and of all ages
A US$ 200 million contract with International Aero Engines to provide a comprehensive overhaul and repair service for 14 Airbus aircraft in Etihad’s narrow-body fleet. Transferring engine maintenance responsibility to IAE will deliver significant cost benefits, especially in terms of lower fuel consumption, reliability and increased flying time between maintenance overhauls
A major contract with Lufthansa Technik to install the airline’s new first class suite in nine of its Airbus A340 aircraft currently in service. The work involves a complete renovation of the cabin, galley areas and a new in-flight entertainment system
A contract with Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies (ADAT) to upgrade the cabins in the airline’s Boeing B777 and Airbus A320 fleets. The Boeing B777 programme involves replacing and reconfiguring economy class seats as well as upgrading the in-flight entertainment system. The cabins of the Airbus A320s will be completely refurbished to the latest Etihad specification
A component support deal worth up to US$ 250 million with leading maintenance, repair and overhaul supplier SR Technics, which will give Etihad easy access to more than 3000 aircraft components at Abu Dhabi and key outstations, reducing the need for the airline to maintain large and costly component inventories of its own
An agreement with aviation IT specialist Lufthansa Systems to introduce a new flight planning system, which will enable the airline to significantly reduce fuel costs by up to five per cent, cut emissions and benefit from more efficient flight planning processes
An agreement with leading workforce management software provider Kronos Incorporated to automate and optimise planning and management processes for Etihad’s 4,000 cabin and flight crew. The new crew planning software system will increase the quality of the airline’s crew planning and improve the stability of crew rosters
A key factor behind Etihad’s growth has been its investment in premium cabins. The airline will use the Dubai Air Show to showcase its new first class suite, on one of its newest Airbus A340-600 aircraft.
Mr Hogan said: “The new first class suite is a stunning product that is helping us stand out in the premium travel market. It has been incredibly well-received and we are delighted to be able to roll it out across the A340 fleet so quickly.”
Members of the public will be able to visit the new first class cabin, which contains 12 individual suites that have been designed to provide first class customers with more privacy, greater comfort and increased storage.
Each private suite is accessed by its own sliding door and includes a personal wardrobe and mini bar, as well as 23" wide-screen LCD screen which features more than 600 hours of ‘on demand’ entertainment. Spacious stowage compartments are built into and around the seat.
The first class cabin also features a large and luxurious changing room with a full length mirror, new style wash basin and leather fold-down seat to allow passengers to freshen up and change after take-off and prior to landing.
The announcements come as the airline celebrates its sixth anniversary, a period in which it has grown to serve 57 destinations, with a fleet of 49 aircraft expected to carry more than seven million passengers in 2009.
In a separate signing, Etihad was welcomed by Air Cargo Maximus as a founding partner of a new international initiative by the UAE called ‘Care in the Air’ to support worldwide human relief operations, by providing aid ‘at cost’ to regions in need.
Mr Hogan concluded: “In six years, Etihad has grown to take its place on the global stage, recognised as a serious airline, with serious long-term ambitions.
“Over the next decade, we will see continued expansion of our services around the globe. The heavy investment in the growth and economic diversification of Abu Dhabi is contributing to that development, and we are planning now to meet those future demands.
“But at every stage, we will take a commercial view of our investment strategy, so we can be sure of delivering a satisfactory return to our shareholder.”
The airline, which earlier in the month celebrated its sixth anniversary, said the investments would address key strategic elements of the business to support the company’s position as the world’s leading airline.
Speaking at a press conference on the second day of the Dubai Air Show, James Hogan, Etihad Airway’s chief executive officer, said: “Etihad has taken great strides forward in only six years. We have created a compelling brand, an outstanding service offer and a strong hub at Abu Dhabi Airport. That progress was recognised last week when Etihad was named the world’s leading airline at the World Travel Awards.
“The record-breaking aircraft and engine orders we made at the Farnborough and Paris air shows demonstrate our transformation into a major player in global aviation. We have set the foundations for future growth and development.
“Now we are taking the next steps. Over the course of this week, we will announce a series of strategic contracts, partnerships and initiatives which will address key strategic elements of our business and allow us to deliver on our long term plans.
Mr Hogan said the contracts and signings would provide maintenance, retro-fitting, cabin upgrades and component support for aircraft currently in the fleet or being delivered over the coming years.
In addition, the airline will also announce deals which will see the introduction of state-of-the-art software systems aimed at improving the airline’s flight planning and cabin and flight crew resourcing.
The airline will also further boost its Emiritisation programme, with an agreement with the Institute of Applied technology to provide students with opportunities to build successful future careers with Etihad.
The other announcements include:
A contract with Panasonic to install one of the world’s most comprehensive in-flight entertainment systems on board our new A330-300 fleet and new Boeing B777 aircraft, scheduled for delivery from December 2009 and 2011, respectively. The new Panasonic eX2 system boasts a host of world-leading entertainment, information and functional features for people in all cabins and of all ages
A US$ 200 million contract with International Aero Engines to provide a comprehensive overhaul and repair service for 14 Airbus aircraft in Etihad’s narrow-body fleet. Transferring engine maintenance responsibility to IAE will deliver significant cost benefits, especially in terms of lower fuel consumption, reliability and increased flying time between maintenance overhauls
A major contract with Lufthansa Technik to install the airline’s new first class suite in nine of its Airbus A340 aircraft currently in service. The work involves a complete renovation of the cabin, galley areas and a new in-flight entertainment system
A contract with Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies (ADAT) to upgrade the cabins in the airline’s Boeing B777 and Airbus A320 fleets. The Boeing B777 programme involves replacing and reconfiguring economy class seats as well as upgrading the in-flight entertainment system. The cabins of the Airbus A320s will be completely refurbished to the latest Etihad specification
A component support deal worth up to US$ 250 million with leading maintenance, repair and overhaul supplier SR Technics, which will give Etihad easy access to more than 3000 aircraft components at Abu Dhabi and key outstations, reducing the need for the airline to maintain large and costly component inventories of its own
An agreement with aviation IT specialist Lufthansa Systems to introduce a new flight planning system, which will enable the airline to significantly reduce fuel costs by up to five per cent, cut emissions and benefit from more efficient flight planning processes
An agreement with leading workforce management software provider Kronos Incorporated to automate and optimise planning and management processes for Etihad’s 4,000 cabin and flight crew. The new crew planning software system will increase the quality of the airline’s crew planning and improve the stability of crew rosters
A key factor behind Etihad’s growth has been its investment in premium cabins. The airline will use the Dubai Air Show to showcase its new first class suite, on one of its newest Airbus A340-600 aircraft.
Mr Hogan said: “The new first class suite is a stunning product that is helping us stand out in the premium travel market. It has been incredibly well-received and we are delighted to be able to roll it out across the A340 fleet so quickly.”
Members of the public will be able to visit the new first class cabin, which contains 12 individual suites that have been designed to provide first class customers with more privacy, greater comfort and increased storage.
Each private suite is accessed by its own sliding door and includes a personal wardrobe and mini bar, as well as 23" wide-screen LCD screen which features more than 600 hours of ‘on demand’ entertainment. Spacious stowage compartments are built into and around the seat.
The first class cabin also features a large and luxurious changing room with a full length mirror, new style wash basin and leather fold-down seat to allow passengers to freshen up and change after take-off and prior to landing.
The announcements come as the airline celebrates its sixth anniversary, a period in which it has grown to serve 57 destinations, with a fleet of 49 aircraft expected to carry more than seven million passengers in 2009.
In a separate signing, Etihad was welcomed by Air Cargo Maximus as a founding partner of a new international initiative by the UAE called ‘Care in the Air’ to support worldwide human relief operations, by providing aid ‘at cost’ to regions in need.
Mr Hogan concluded: “In six years, Etihad has grown to take its place on the global stage, recognised as a serious airline, with serious long-term ambitions.
“Over the next decade, we will see continued expansion of our services around the globe. The heavy investment in the growth and economic diversification of Abu Dhabi is contributing to that development, and we are planning now to meet those future demands.
“But at every stage, we will take a commercial view of our investment strategy, so we can be sure of delivering a satisfactory return to our shareholder.”
Thursday, November 12, 2009
AMERICAN AIRLINES CHIEF WANTS JAL DEAL
The CEO of American Airlines said on Monday that Japan Airlines would be taking a risk and suffer financially if it breaks ties with American and joins an alliance with Delta Air Lines.
Gerard Arpey said that American and its partner airlines "produce hundreds of millions of dollars of value for JAL" and want to strengthen ties.
Arpey made the comments in Mexico City at a meeting of the oneworld alliance of global airlines, which includes American, British Airways and JAL. Delta belongs to another alliance, SkyTeam, and is trying to lure JAL away from oneworld.
American and Delta have battled over JAL for several weeks, largely in private. Arpey's remarks elevated the fight by marking the most detailed public comments by either CEO.
Last month, Delta CEO Richard Anderson declined to answer questions about JAL. But he said Delta and SkyTeam partner Air France-KLM have shown an ability to develop successful alliances with their trans-Atlantic business.
The stakes in the JAL battle are high for American, a unit of AMR. Arpey told his own executives last month that if JaL jumps to Delta's team, "that would certainly be very bad for us".
Both AMR and Delta are seeking a minority stake in JAL, which has been looking for an injection of captial and help from the government.
Delta and American covet JAL because of its extensive routes in Japan and China. By having JAL as a partner since the mid-1990s, American has been able to sell those routes to its own customers and share in the revenue. American and JAL offer reciprocal frequent-flier privileges to each other's passengers.
Arpey has said the partnership with JAL allows American to win customers away from United and Delta's Northwest Airlines unit, both of which fly from the US to Tokyo.
Gerard Arpey said that American and its partner airlines "produce hundreds of millions of dollars of value for JAL" and want to strengthen ties.
Arpey made the comments in Mexico City at a meeting of the oneworld alliance of global airlines, which includes American, British Airways and JAL. Delta belongs to another alliance, SkyTeam, and is trying to lure JAL away from oneworld.
American and Delta have battled over JAL for several weeks, largely in private. Arpey's remarks elevated the fight by marking the most detailed public comments by either CEO.
Last month, Delta CEO Richard Anderson declined to answer questions about JAL. But he said Delta and SkyTeam partner Air France-KLM have shown an ability to develop successful alliances with their trans-Atlantic business.
The stakes in the JAL battle are high for American, a unit of AMR. Arpey told his own executives last month that if JaL jumps to Delta's team, "that would certainly be very bad for us".
Both AMR and Delta are seeking a minority stake in JAL, which has been looking for an injection of captial and help from the government.
Delta and American covet JAL because of its extensive routes in Japan and China. By having JAL as a partner since the mid-1990s, American has been able to sell those routes to its own customers and share in the revenue. American and JAL offer reciprocal frequent-flier privileges to each other's passengers.
Arpey has said the partnership with JAL allows American to win customers away from United and Delta's Northwest Airlines unit, both of which fly from the US to Tokyo.
Awaken your travel spirit and enjoy life, in your style
Awaken your travel spirit and enjoy life, in your style
When winter breezes begin, the urge to trael begins to stir. This is the time of year when a festive atmosphere fills the air and people are ready to take wing. During winter there are numerous places around the globe that come alive with celebrations and enjoyment of the cold weather, unless you travel Down Under that is. Whether your quest is a natural winter wonderland, shop to you drop, or to simply enjoy life in another place for a few days, THAI recommends these destinations that will awaken your travel spirit.
Fly THAI to Oslo, Moscow, Varanasi, Brisbane, Los Angeles, Milan, Seioul and Tokyo.
for more information, and online bookings visit www.thaiairways.com
For reservations call THAI Contact Center 0-2356-1111 or your travel agent.
A STAR ALLIANCE MEMBER
ADVERTISEMENT
Embark on a "Journey of Faith" with THAI ValuePlus Card
THAI is proud to introduce the THAI ValuePlusCard, a prepaid airfare card that allows you to admire cultural destinations and Buddhist landmarks across Asia at affordable prices. The THAI ValuePlus Card is your ticket to Asia's major pilgrimage routes including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Korea, Japan as well as India and Nepal, places where the Lord Buddha found enlightenment.
The launch of the THAI ValuePlus Card was held at Fashion Gallery. Siam Paragon. THAI ValuePlus Card is available now until February 28, 2010.
Set off on a religious pilgrimage tour with THAI ValuePlus Card. For more information call THAI Contact Center 0-2356-1111 or visit www.thaiairways.com
THAI at ITB Asia 2009
THAI in Singapore, represented by General manager Anivat Tailanga and his sales team, participated in ITB Asia II at Suntec City, Singapore from 21-23 October 2009 with the theme "Smooth as Silk Experience through touches of THAI". The THAI booth received an overshelming response from those attending from the tourism industry, including hotel oprators and airline partners.
ITB Asia is one of the world's leading travel trade shows, a spin off from the annual ITB Berlin in Germany. This was the second year for ITB Asia, a good indication that the tourism industry in Asia is approaching the same high potential as that in Europe. There were three major halls whichh were each dedicated to an industry segment; hotels, tour operators and airlines from participating countries. This was the first time that THAI participated at ITB Asia.
Malaysia Big Surprise!
Fly Thai to Malaysia and enjoy a bird's eye view of the Petronas towers, the world's tallest twin buildings. Visit Penang, the "Pearl of the Orient", and enjoy the host of sports activities on offer. Penang's architectural beauty is rich in centuries-old history reflected in the colonial buildings that line its strees. book online now and enjoy special airfares before November 30, 2009.
*Conditions:
The credit card is required and credit card owner must also travel and present this credit card at the Airport Check-in prevention of deny boarding.
This promotion is available for online internet reservation only. Unable to purchase through any of THAI Ticketing Offices or THAI Sales Agents.
Reservation/Ticketing/Departure date between November 1-30, 2009.
Last departure date from Bangkok no later than Nobember 30, 2009.
Fore more information, please visit www.thaiairways.com.
When winter breezes begin, the urge to trael begins to stir. This is the time of year when a festive atmosphere fills the air and people are ready to take wing. During winter there are numerous places around the globe that come alive with celebrations and enjoyment of the cold weather, unless you travel Down Under that is. Whether your quest is a natural winter wonderland, shop to you drop, or to simply enjoy life in another place for a few days, THAI recommends these destinations that will awaken your travel spirit.
Fly THAI to Oslo, Moscow, Varanasi, Brisbane, Los Angeles, Milan, Seioul and Tokyo.
for more information, and online bookings visit www.thaiairways.com
For reservations call THAI Contact Center 0-2356-1111 or your travel agent.
A STAR ALLIANCE MEMBER
ADVERTISEMENT
Embark on a "Journey of Faith" with THAI ValuePlus Card
THAI is proud to introduce the THAI ValuePlusCard, a prepaid airfare card that allows you to admire cultural destinations and Buddhist landmarks across Asia at affordable prices. The THAI ValuePlus Card is your ticket to Asia's major pilgrimage routes including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Korea, Japan as well as India and Nepal, places where the Lord Buddha found enlightenment.
The launch of the THAI ValuePlus Card was held at Fashion Gallery. Siam Paragon. THAI ValuePlus Card is available now until February 28, 2010.
Set off on a religious pilgrimage tour with THAI ValuePlus Card. For more information call THAI Contact Center 0-2356-1111 or visit www.thaiairways.com
THAI at ITB Asia 2009
THAI in Singapore, represented by General manager Anivat Tailanga and his sales team, participated in ITB Asia II at Suntec City, Singapore from 21-23 October 2009 with the theme "Smooth as Silk Experience through touches of THAI". The THAI booth received an overshelming response from those attending from the tourism industry, including hotel oprators and airline partners.
ITB Asia is one of the world's leading travel trade shows, a spin off from the annual ITB Berlin in Germany. This was the second year for ITB Asia, a good indication that the tourism industry in Asia is approaching the same high potential as that in Europe. There were three major halls whichh were each dedicated to an industry segment; hotels, tour operators and airlines from participating countries. This was the first time that THAI participated at ITB Asia.
Malaysia Big Surprise!
Fly Thai to Malaysia and enjoy a bird's eye view of the Petronas towers, the world's tallest twin buildings. Visit Penang, the "Pearl of the Orient", and enjoy the host of sports activities on offer. Penang's architectural beauty is rich in centuries-old history reflected in the colonial buildings that line its strees. book online now and enjoy special airfares before November 30, 2009.
*Conditions:
The credit card is required and credit card owner must also travel and present this credit card at the Airport Check-in prevention of deny boarding.
This promotion is available for online internet reservation only. Unable to purchase through any of THAI Ticketing Offices or THAI Sales Agents.
Reservation/Ticketing/Departure date between November 1-30, 2009.
Last departure date from Bangkok no later than Nobember 30, 2009.
Fore more information, please visit www.thaiairways.com.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
CARRIES COULD MISS REVENUE, PROFIT TARGETS
Thai Airways International could miss its revenue target of Bt150 billion this year due to the fluctuation in oil prices and a low passenger yield, its president Piyasvasti Amranand said yesterday.
The national carrier may also fail to achieve this year's profit target of Bt7 billion, he said.
"The overall operation in the third quarter was positive, with a higher load factor. However, we are still facing a crisis," Piyasvasti said at a press conference.
THAI in the first half of the year registered Bt75.9 billion in revenue and Bt2.47 billion in net profit. It has not yet released third-quarter financial results.
The company earlier lowered its revenue target from Bt180 billion to Bt150 billion, due to political instability and the global economic crisis. Last year's revenue was Bt202.6 billion.
Passenger yield in the third quarter was Bt1.90 per seat per kilometre, compared to Bt2.20 in the same period last year.
The yield is forecast to rise to Bt2.10 next year, Piyasvasti said.
He said THAI would hold an executive management workshop on Monday and Tuesday to discuss how the airline should handle the current situation. The working group will also evaluate overall operations in the current quarter. A press conference will be held after the two-day meeting.
The company will submit the conclusions reached to the executive board on November 18 for further action.
Piyasvasti said one of the cost-cutting measures being implemented was to reduce the number of free tickets and privileges. The airline issues 180,000 free tickets each year to the company's staff, as well as to current and former executives.
"We will cut back on free tickets just during this peak season from November to January, in order to reduce operating costs," he said.
Meanwhile, the executive board yesterday appointed three directors to new executive positions, with immediate effect. Woranate Laprabang, formerly director for the Strategic implementation and evalution department, is appointed vice president for corporate strategtgy and planning development.
Jirawan Chaisakul, formerly director of the product and service information system department, is appointed vice president for the information technology services department.
Ruangyos Pamonmontri, formerly director of the Europe and Africa department, is appionted vice president for the sales and distribution department.
The national carrier may also fail to achieve this year's profit target of Bt7 billion, he said.
"The overall operation in the third quarter was positive, with a higher load factor. However, we are still facing a crisis," Piyasvasti said at a press conference.
THAI in the first half of the year registered Bt75.9 billion in revenue and Bt2.47 billion in net profit. It has not yet released third-quarter financial results.
The company earlier lowered its revenue target from Bt180 billion to Bt150 billion, due to political instability and the global economic crisis. Last year's revenue was Bt202.6 billion.
Passenger yield in the third quarter was Bt1.90 per seat per kilometre, compared to Bt2.20 in the same period last year.
The yield is forecast to rise to Bt2.10 next year, Piyasvasti said.
He said THAI would hold an executive management workshop on Monday and Tuesday to discuss how the airline should handle the current situation. The working group will also evaluate overall operations in the current quarter. A press conference will be held after the two-day meeting.
The company will submit the conclusions reached to the executive board on November 18 for further action.
Piyasvasti said one of the cost-cutting measures being implemented was to reduce the number of free tickets and privileges. The airline issues 180,000 free tickets each year to the company's staff, as well as to current and former executives.
"We will cut back on free tickets just during this peak season from November to January, in order to reduce operating costs," he said.
Meanwhile, the executive board yesterday appointed three directors to new executive positions, with immediate effect. Woranate Laprabang, formerly director for the Strategic implementation and evalution department, is appointed vice president for corporate strategtgy and planning development.
Jirawan Chaisakul, formerly director of the product and service information system department, is appointed vice president for the information technology services department.
Ruangyos Pamonmontri, formerly director of the Europe and Africa department, is appionted vice president for the sales and distribution department.
Flower extravaganza set to return
The floral extravaganza Ratchaphruek Festival returns to Chiang Mai next month from Dec 1-10 to celebrate the 82nd birthday anniversary of His Majesty the King, the world's longest reigning monarch.
Organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives,the provincial administration and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the festival is expected to draw more than 200,000 visitors.
According to Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT's deputy governor for marketing communications, on Dec 5,which is the King's birthday,there will be a grand ceremony involving the lighting of candles and offering of prayers wishing His Majesty sound health,followed by fireworks and light and sound presentation.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva will preside over the festival opening on Dec 1 when he'd join local notaries to release 999 floating lanterns, followed by Thai classical dances from the four regions of the country,with 99 performers from each region.
Taking place at the same venue that played host to the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek held to celebrate the 60th anniversary of His Majesty's accension to the throne in 2006, the festival is an exhibition of flowers, plants and fruits,sale of farm products, handicrafts and OTOP goods, and contests featuring farm commodities.
The event three years ago featured roughly 2.5 million plants and flowers,including some rare orchids, and drew about as many visitors.
"The festival should help boost tourism and raise hotel occupancy in Chiang Mai," said the deputy governor.
A first in Chanthaburi
Launched on Oct 26 in Chanthaburi,the first training centre for management of shipwrecks and underwater cultural heritage brings together 16 archaeologists from across the Southeast Asia region.
The training programme is a part-nership between Unesco, the Ministry of Culture and the Underwater Archaeology Division of the Department of Fine Arts.
"Thousands of historical items have already been stolen by treasure hunters and if preventative measures are not put into place to combat the illegal trade,even more priceless treasures will disappear from Asian waters," said Ricardo Favis of Unesco's Bangkok office, adding "Asian maritime archaeologists are still in their infancy, so we must improve their knowledge and skills."
The first batch comprises trainees from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia,the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand.The course runs until Dec 5. It is conducted by experts from Australia, England and Holland, and covers subjects such as maritime law,in situ preservation of shipwrecks and underwater sites, museology, treasure hunters and monitoring techniques, shipbuilding technology and ethnographic boat recording.
The Chantaburi facility is one of the best-equipped in the region and located in proximity of shipwreck sites, allowing the trainees to field-test practical skills.
Major TAT push in Moscow
The Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) office in Moscow has embarked on a major offensive after the number of Russians visiting Thailand dropped 29.43 per cent in the first four months of this year.
In 2008, Russian visitors to Thailand totaled 319,587, up 14.23%over the previous year, and generated 16.24 billion baht in tourism revenue. During 2002-08, the number of Russian visitors to Thailand grew by an annual average of 28.79% while their spending grew by 32.76% annually. However, the global financial crisis saw their number drop by 29.43% during January to April this year.
Therefore TAT's Moscow office launched the "Welcome to Thailand Mega Fam" campaign last week, reining in 70 Russian travel agents and media representatives to its cause."Our research shows many opportunities for growth," said Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT's deputy governor in charge of marketing communications."Russia is mainly a winter-season market as Russians love our warm weather, the beaches and the sea. Many also enjoy learning diving and exploring underwater treasures around the Andamans and the Gulf of Thailand."
TAT is targetting high-end tourists and meeting delegates through tour packages to Bangkok with a detour to neighbouring countries, and expects the campaign to generate 293,000 visitors from Russian alone, not to mention the Central Asian republics, for a turnover of roughly 14.03 billion baht this winter.
Park encroachment
The Department of National Park,Wildlife and Plant Conservation last week raided a marine park in Trang Province,the site of a private resort, and seized 20 workers before ordering a halt to further construction.
Almost 80 per cent complete the resort,valued at 20 million baht, belongs to a Songkhla businessman. Located in Hat Chao Mai Marine Park, it's built on a strip of land where construction is forbidden.
The raid followed complaints from locals. Somchai Masathien, director of the Forest Fire Control Division led a 50-strong force to the construction site and arrested the workers, after which he told the local media that the building will be demolished.
Tiger resumes flights
Anticipating a rise in passenger traffic during the upcoming tourist season, Tiger Airways has resumed flights between Singapore and Krabi.
"We are very excited about the resumption of Krabi flights. With four flights a week you now have an additional choice of a holiday destination," said Tiger Airways Managing Director Rosalynn Tay.
All of them are afternoon flights available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The start-up price is at 535 baht excluding surcharges.
Visit www.tigerairways.com for more information.
Organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives,the provincial administration and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the festival is expected to draw more than 200,000 visitors.
According to Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT's deputy governor for marketing communications, on Dec 5,which is the King's birthday,there will be a grand ceremony involving the lighting of candles and offering of prayers wishing His Majesty sound health,followed by fireworks and light and sound presentation.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva will preside over the festival opening on Dec 1 when he'd join local notaries to release 999 floating lanterns, followed by Thai classical dances from the four regions of the country,with 99 performers from each region.
Taking place at the same venue that played host to the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek held to celebrate the 60th anniversary of His Majesty's accension to the throne in 2006, the festival is an exhibition of flowers, plants and fruits,sale of farm products, handicrafts and OTOP goods, and contests featuring farm commodities.
The event three years ago featured roughly 2.5 million plants and flowers,including some rare orchids, and drew about as many visitors.
"The festival should help boost tourism and raise hotel occupancy in Chiang Mai," said the deputy governor.
A first in Chanthaburi
Launched on Oct 26 in Chanthaburi,the first training centre for management of shipwrecks and underwater cultural heritage brings together 16 archaeologists from across the Southeast Asia region.
The training programme is a part-nership between Unesco, the Ministry of Culture and the Underwater Archaeology Division of the Department of Fine Arts.
"Thousands of historical items have already been stolen by treasure hunters and if preventative measures are not put into place to combat the illegal trade,even more priceless treasures will disappear from Asian waters," said Ricardo Favis of Unesco's Bangkok office, adding "Asian maritime archaeologists are still in their infancy, so we must improve their knowledge and skills."
The first batch comprises trainees from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia,the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand.The course runs until Dec 5. It is conducted by experts from Australia, England and Holland, and covers subjects such as maritime law,in situ preservation of shipwrecks and underwater sites, museology, treasure hunters and monitoring techniques, shipbuilding technology and ethnographic boat recording.
The Chantaburi facility is one of the best-equipped in the region and located in proximity of shipwreck sites, allowing the trainees to field-test practical skills.
Major TAT push in Moscow
The Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) office in Moscow has embarked on a major offensive after the number of Russians visiting Thailand dropped 29.43 per cent in the first four months of this year.
In 2008, Russian visitors to Thailand totaled 319,587, up 14.23%over the previous year, and generated 16.24 billion baht in tourism revenue. During 2002-08, the number of Russian visitors to Thailand grew by an annual average of 28.79% while their spending grew by 32.76% annually. However, the global financial crisis saw their number drop by 29.43% during January to April this year.
Therefore TAT's Moscow office launched the "Welcome to Thailand Mega Fam" campaign last week, reining in 70 Russian travel agents and media representatives to its cause."Our research shows many opportunities for growth," said Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT's deputy governor in charge of marketing communications."Russia is mainly a winter-season market as Russians love our warm weather, the beaches and the sea. Many also enjoy learning diving and exploring underwater treasures around the Andamans and the Gulf of Thailand."
TAT is targetting high-end tourists and meeting delegates through tour packages to Bangkok with a detour to neighbouring countries, and expects the campaign to generate 293,000 visitors from Russian alone, not to mention the Central Asian republics, for a turnover of roughly 14.03 billion baht this winter.
Park encroachment
The Department of National Park,Wildlife and Plant Conservation last week raided a marine park in Trang Province,the site of a private resort, and seized 20 workers before ordering a halt to further construction.
Almost 80 per cent complete the resort,valued at 20 million baht, belongs to a Songkhla businessman. Located in Hat Chao Mai Marine Park, it's built on a strip of land where construction is forbidden.
The raid followed complaints from locals. Somchai Masathien, director of the Forest Fire Control Division led a 50-strong force to the construction site and arrested the workers, after which he told the local media that the building will be demolished.
Tiger resumes flights
Anticipating a rise in passenger traffic during the upcoming tourist season, Tiger Airways has resumed flights between Singapore and Krabi.
"We are very excited about the resumption of Krabi flights. With four flights a week you now have an additional choice of a holiday destination," said Tiger Airways Managing Director Rosalynn Tay.
All of them are afternoon flights available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The start-up price is at 535 baht excluding surcharges.
Visit www.tigerairways.com for more information.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Flying high with Iron Maiden frontman
Bruce Dickinson likes to fly some heavy metal - about 109,000kg of it - when he's not performing as Iron Maiden's frontman.On the band's 2008/9"Somewhere Back In Time World Tour"- showcased on the new DVD Flight 666 which was voted best music documentary at this year's South-by-Southwest Festival Dickinson pulled double duty as lead singer and the chief pilot on the band's customised Boeing 757.
He'd wear his Astraeus Airlines uniform - white shirt with epaulets and pressed trousers - when flying between tour stops. Then, he'd leap around the stage in outlandish costumes - donning a red 19th-century British army tunic while singing The Trooper or a feathered mask for Powerslave .After the shows, as the band's "designated driver", he had to refrain from late-night carousing, turning in early and avoiding any drinking in order to meet aviation industry regulations for mandatory rest periods and zero bloodalcohol content.
But Dickinson didn't mind "being a party pooper" since the tour offered a chance to combine his passions for flying and rock music.
"The only caveat is that I was working much harder than everybody else," said Dickinson."But I never get tired of going to work because I just think that singing with Iron Maiden and flying a jet airliner are the two best jobs in the world."
The legendary UK heavy metal band - which earlier this year won a Brit Award for best live act - wrapped up its tour in early April after performing before nearly 2 million fans in 38 countries. Maiden's other members founder and bassist Steve Harris, drummer Nicko McBrain, and guitarists Dave Murray, Adrian Smith and Janick Gers - scattered to their homes for a monthslong break with plans to regroup later this year to begin work on a new album due out in 2010.
But Dickinson quickly returned to his day job as a commercial airline captain for Astraeus, which leases airplanes and crews to other airlines.He has been making regular passenger runs to such far-flung locales as Kyrgyzstan, Sierra Leone and Djibouti.
It's not as if the 51-year-old Dickinson,who has written two novels and hosts rock programs on BBC Radio, needs his pilot's salary. Iron Maiden remains one of the most enduring and successful heavy metal bands with record sales of more than 70 million since their 1980 debut album.
But Dickinson finds that being in the cockpit of a 757 offers a welcome respite from the frenzied life of a touring rock star.
"It's just you, the airplane and the sky and going where you're going and it's quite pleasant," he said."It's quite a nice little Zen moment."
Dickinson earns high marks from Astraeus' Chief Executive Mario Fulgoni,who is also a commercial airline captain,for "possessing both a high degree of professionalism and intense enthusiasm for flying".
"That he has other careers is irrelevant to his capability as a pilot and his rock star status in no way detracts from his performance as an airline captain,"Fulgoni said in an email message.
Dickinson, who no longer sports the shoulder-length hair of his younger days,says that his passengers, who recently included the president of Sierra Leone,rarely make the connection with his rock star persona. It's hard to imagine that the pilot who matter-of-factly goes through the safety regulations or reassures passengers about some turbulence is the singer whose screaming vocals on songs like Bring Your Daughter ... to the Slaughter earned him the nickname "The Air-Raid Siren".
Dickinson, who hosted the aviation series Flying Heavy Metal for Discovery Channel (UK), says his passion for flight goes back to his childhood, His godfather and uncle were both engineers in the Royal Air Force, and he'd regularly attend air shows and decorate his room with squadrons of plastic model airplanes.
But Dickinson put his dreams of flying on hold when he became enamoured with rock as a teenager and began singing with the first wave of UK heavy metal bands in the late '70s, performing with Samson before joining Iron Maiden in 1981.
Dickinson began his pilot training in the early '90s at a Florida airport while on a family vacation. With the same determination that made him a Top 10-ranked UK fencer in the 1980s,Dickinson passed his private pilot's licence test and obtained a licence to fly commercial jets.
"I was genuinely doing it as an alternative career in case music all fell on his head," said Dickinson, who had left Maiden in 1993 to pursue a solo career before rejoining the band in 1999.
Dickinson landed an entry pilot's job with British World Airlines in 2000, and when that airline folded after September 11,2001, signed on with the newly formed Astraeus.
Dickinson has kept flying with Astraeus even though Maiden has enjoyed a recent resurgence, releasing new albums such as A Matter of Life and Death (2006) as well as its older hits on video games like Rock Band that have attracted a new generation of young fans to go along with their older audience who've been into the band since the '80s.
On their latest tour, Maiden decided to revisit some of their hits from their '80s albums - including The Number of the Beast ,Powerslave and Somewhere In Time - so their young fans could hear them performed live.
"We love what we do and we've never compromised with the demands of media industry or musical fashion," said Dickinson."We've always plowed our own somewhat eccentric and stubborn furrow and there's obviously a lot of people that respect that....
"Iron Maiden is ultimately all about the fans and that's what makes the Flight 666 documentary great for me.... It's not about the egos of the band ... or to bolster our self-importance."
For the tour, Dickinson helped design and modify the band's leased plane,giving it fewer passenger seats and enough cargo space to carry 12 tonnes of equipment. That gave the band the mobility to cover more ground in less time - avoiding costly stopovers and making it economically feasible to perform in such countries as Costa Rica for the first time and reach fans in remote locales such as Manaus, Brazil's Amazon regional capital. Astaeus now offers the design to other customers.
The plane - dubbed "Ed Force One"- was decorated with the band's logo along the side. However, Astraeus ended up painting over the Iron Maiden decorations between legs of the tour after some passengers in Ghana balked at boarding a plane with the band's grinning zombie mascot "Eddie" on the tail fin fearing it was haunted, Dickinson said.
Dickinson does see a link in the precise teamwork required to get a plane to its destination and to pull off an intricately staged arena rock show.
"Obviously as a pilot ... everything seems to be in control," said Dickinson."And people look at rock musicians and think, yeah, they're wild and crazy and it's all out of control up there and backstage must be a war zone full of groupies and drugs....
"But you have to be very disciplined to do what we do in Iron Maiden and you can't survive for a career as long as ours without having some serious degree of dedication. It's not all madness and ... the only way that we can allow ourselves to do what we do to our bodies on stage every night is actually to be fairly in control of what we are doing. It just looks like it's crazy."
He'd wear his Astraeus Airlines uniform - white shirt with epaulets and pressed trousers - when flying between tour stops. Then, he'd leap around the stage in outlandish costumes - donning a red 19th-century British army tunic while singing The Trooper or a feathered mask for Powerslave .After the shows, as the band's "designated driver", he had to refrain from late-night carousing, turning in early and avoiding any drinking in order to meet aviation industry regulations for mandatory rest periods and zero bloodalcohol content.
But Dickinson didn't mind "being a party pooper" since the tour offered a chance to combine his passions for flying and rock music.
"The only caveat is that I was working much harder than everybody else," said Dickinson."But I never get tired of going to work because I just think that singing with Iron Maiden and flying a jet airliner are the two best jobs in the world."
The legendary UK heavy metal band - which earlier this year won a Brit Award for best live act - wrapped up its tour in early April after performing before nearly 2 million fans in 38 countries. Maiden's other members founder and bassist Steve Harris, drummer Nicko McBrain, and guitarists Dave Murray, Adrian Smith and Janick Gers - scattered to their homes for a monthslong break with plans to regroup later this year to begin work on a new album due out in 2010.
But Dickinson quickly returned to his day job as a commercial airline captain for Astraeus, which leases airplanes and crews to other airlines.He has been making regular passenger runs to such far-flung locales as Kyrgyzstan, Sierra Leone and Djibouti.
It's not as if the 51-year-old Dickinson,who has written two novels and hosts rock programs on BBC Radio, needs his pilot's salary. Iron Maiden remains one of the most enduring and successful heavy metal bands with record sales of more than 70 million since their 1980 debut album.
But Dickinson finds that being in the cockpit of a 757 offers a welcome respite from the frenzied life of a touring rock star.
"It's just you, the airplane and the sky and going where you're going and it's quite pleasant," he said."It's quite a nice little Zen moment."
Dickinson earns high marks from Astraeus' Chief Executive Mario Fulgoni,who is also a commercial airline captain,for "possessing both a high degree of professionalism and intense enthusiasm for flying".
"That he has other careers is irrelevant to his capability as a pilot and his rock star status in no way detracts from his performance as an airline captain,"Fulgoni said in an email message.
Dickinson, who no longer sports the shoulder-length hair of his younger days,says that his passengers, who recently included the president of Sierra Leone,rarely make the connection with his rock star persona. It's hard to imagine that the pilot who matter-of-factly goes through the safety regulations or reassures passengers about some turbulence is the singer whose screaming vocals on songs like Bring Your Daughter ... to the Slaughter earned him the nickname "The Air-Raid Siren".
Dickinson, who hosted the aviation series Flying Heavy Metal for Discovery Channel (UK), says his passion for flight goes back to his childhood, His godfather and uncle were both engineers in the Royal Air Force, and he'd regularly attend air shows and decorate his room with squadrons of plastic model airplanes.
But Dickinson put his dreams of flying on hold when he became enamoured with rock as a teenager and began singing with the first wave of UK heavy metal bands in the late '70s, performing with Samson before joining Iron Maiden in 1981.
Dickinson began his pilot training in the early '90s at a Florida airport while on a family vacation. With the same determination that made him a Top 10-ranked UK fencer in the 1980s,Dickinson passed his private pilot's licence test and obtained a licence to fly commercial jets.
"I was genuinely doing it as an alternative career in case music all fell on his head," said Dickinson, who had left Maiden in 1993 to pursue a solo career before rejoining the band in 1999.
Dickinson landed an entry pilot's job with British World Airlines in 2000, and when that airline folded after September 11,2001, signed on with the newly formed Astraeus.
Dickinson has kept flying with Astraeus even though Maiden has enjoyed a recent resurgence, releasing new albums such as A Matter of Life and Death (2006) as well as its older hits on video games like Rock Band that have attracted a new generation of young fans to go along with their older audience who've been into the band since the '80s.
On their latest tour, Maiden decided to revisit some of their hits from their '80s albums - including The Number of the Beast ,Powerslave and Somewhere In Time - so their young fans could hear them performed live.
"We love what we do and we've never compromised with the demands of media industry or musical fashion," said Dickinson."We've always plowed our own somewhat eccentric and stubborn furrow and there's obviously a lot of people that respect that....
"Iron Maiden is ultimately all about the fans and that's what makes the Flight 666 documentary great for me.... It's not about the egos of the band ... or to bolster our self-importance."
For the tour, Dickinson helped design and modify the band's leased plane,giving it fewer passenger seats and enough cargo space to carry 12 tonnes of equipment. That gave the band the mobility to cover more ground in less time - avoiding costly stopovers and making it economically feasible to perform in such countries as Costa Rica for the first time and reach fans in remote locales such as Manaus, Brazil's Amazon regional capital. Astaeus now offers the design to other customers.
The plane - dubbed "Ed Force One"- was decorated with the band's logo along the side. However, Astraeus ended up painting over the Iron Maiden decorations between legs of the tour after some passengers in Ghana balked at boarding a plane with the band's grinning zombie mascot "Eddie" on the tail fin fearing it was haunted, Dickinson said.
Dickinson does see a link in the precise teamwork required to get a plane to its destination and to pull off an intricately staged arena rock show.
"Obviously as a pilot ... everything seems to be in control," said Dickinson."And people look at rock musicians and think, yeah, they're wild and crazy and it's all out of control up there and backstage must be a war zone full of groupies and drugs....
"But you have to be very disciplined to do what we do in Iron Maiden and you can't survive for a career as long as ours without having some serious degree of dedication. It's not all madness and ... the only way that we can allow ourselves to do what we do to our bodies on stage every night is actually to be fairly in control of what we are doing. It just looks like it's crazy."
"FLYING WHILE MUSLIM" CASE A LESSON TO ALL
In a move that should be a learning experience for aviation security,immigration and security authorities worldwide, US Airways last month agreed to an out-of-court settlement of a lawsuit filed by six imams, or Islamic religious leaders, who were arrested after being removed from a US Airways flight in Minnesota in 2006.
The six religious leaders will receive an undisclosed amount in compensation.Confidentiality clauses prevented further details from being disclosed but a statement said the case was resolved to "the satisfaction of all parties".
The Washington DC-based Council of American Islamic Relations (CAIR)hailed the settlement, which has been almost totally ignored by the global travel media. Full details are available at www.flyingwhilemuslim.org.
"[It] is a clear victory for justice and civil rights over fear and the phenomenon of 'flying while Muslim' in the post-9/11 era," said Nihad Awad, national executive director of the CAIR.
Last July, US District Judge Ann Montgomery in Minnesota cleared the way for a trial by denying several motions to dismiss the case and ruling that a law passed by Congress after the incident did not grant protection from lawsuits to those sued by the imams.
The judge also ruled that the actions of the imams prior to their flight did not justify their detention. She noted that they were subjected to "extreme fear and humiliation of being falsely identified as dangerous terrorists" and said "similar behaviour by Russian Orthodox priests or Franciscan monks would likely not have elicited this response".
In an opinion piece in USA Today,CAIR's national communications director Ibrahim Hooper called for a global ban on religious and racial profiling.
He said that while the settlement should not prevent anyone from acting on legitimate security concerns,"reports based solely on anti-Muslim or antiArab bias and hysteria should not be used as the basis for a 'flying while Muslim' incident.
"Absent actual suspicious behaviour,merely offering one of the five-daily Islamic prayers in a terminal, speaking Arabic to a fellow passenger, wearing a head scarf, or 'looking Muslim' is insufficient justification to detain passengers or remove them from a flight.
"American Muslims are just as concerned about flight safety and security as citizens of other faiths. They and their families take the same flights and are subject to the same risks as other members of the travelling public. Flight safety should be based on legitimate law enforcement techniques, not on racial or religious profiling."
Mr Hooper said that in the increasingly diverse society America has become, it must seek to "prevent situations in which stereotypes or bias can create a snowball effect of escalating discrimination.
"Our nation's history has been marred by periods in which groups - whether Irish Americans, African Americans,Japanese Americans, or others - were deemed appropriate targets for discrimination. Thankfully, Americans are capable of looking beyond the prejudices of the moment to see a future of equal treatment for all."
The case, which galvanised Muslim travellers worldwide who are frequently to subjected to racial and religious profiling at airports and border checkpoints, was set to go further in a lawsuit against the Minnesota airport operator, US Airways and possibly the FBI on the grounds of improper arrest and other acts of discrimination.
The Minnesota Post noted that Congress had passed a law - and cited the Minnesota case as the motivation designed to protect people from reporting their suspicions under circumstances such as those involving the imams.
"The imams, and the way they were arrested, became for a time the symbol of the post-9/11 national nervousness about Middle Easterners on airplanes and for the allegation that you could get arrested for the 'crime" of 'flying while Muslim'," wrote commentator Eric Black.
"The nervousness was understandable, but that didn't make it constitutional....[E]ven the shock of the 9/11 attacks didn't repeal the simple rule that police cannot arrest someone unless they have probable cause to believe that the arrestees have committed a crime.
"As you review the facts of the case,ask yourself which of the 'suspicious'actions of the imams would have been suspicious if they had not been Muslims."
Imtiaz Muqbil is executive editor of Travel Impact Newswire, an e-mailed feature and analysis service focusing on the Asia-Pacific travel industry.
The six religious leaders will receive an undisclosed amount in compensation.Confidentiality clauses prevented further details from being disclosed but a statement said the case was resolved to "the satisfaction of all parties".
The Washington DC-based Council of American Islamic Relations (CAIR)hailed the settlement, which has been almost totally ignored by the global travel media. Full details are available at www.flyingwhilemuslim.org.
"[It] is a clear victory for justice and civil rights over fear and the phenomenon of 'flying while Muslim' in the post-9/11 era," said Nihad Awad, national executive director of the CAIR.
Last July, US District Judge Ann Montgomery in Minnesota cleared the way for a trial by denying several motions to dismiss the case and ruling that a law passed by Congress after the incident did not grant protection from lawsuits to those sued by the imams.
The judge also ruled that the actions of the imams prior to their flight did not justify their detention. She noted that they were subjected to "extreme fear and humiliation of being falsely identified as dangerous terrorists" and said "similar behaviour by Russian Orthodox priests or Franciscan monks would likely not have elicited this response".
In an opinion piece in USA Today,CAIR's national communications director Ibrahim Hooper called for a global ban on religious and racial profiling.
He said that while the settlement should not prevent anyone from acting on legitimate security concerns,"reports based solely on anti-Muslim or antiArab bias and hysteria should not be used as the basis for a 'flying while Muslim' incident.
"Absent actual suspicious behaviour,merely offering one of the five-daily Islamic prayers in a terminal, speaking Arabic to a fellow passenger, wearing a head scarf, or 'looking Muslim' is insufficient justification to detain passengers or remove them from a flight.
"American Muslims are just as concerned about flight safety and security as citizens of other faiths. They and their families take the same flights and are subject to the same risks as other members of the travelling public. Flight safety should be based on legitimate law enforcement techniques, not on racial or religious profiling."
Mr Hooper said that in the increasingly diverse society America has become, it must seek to "prevent situations in which stereotypes or bias can create a snowball effect of escalating discrimination.
"Our nation's history has been marred by periods in which groups - whether Irish Americans, African Americans,Japanese Americans, or others - were deemed appropriate targets for discrimination. Thankfully, Americans are capable of looking beyond the prejudices of the moment to see a future of equal treatment for all."
The case, which galvanised Muslim travellers worldwide who are frequently to subjected to racial and religious profiling at airports and border checkpoints, was set to go further in a lawsuit against the Minnesota airport operator, US Airways and possibly the FBI on the grounds of improper arrest and other acts of discrimination.
The Minnesota Post noted that Congress had passed a law - and cited the Minnesota case as the motivation designed to protect people from reporting their suspicions under circumstances such as those involving the imams.
"The imams, and the way they were arrested, became for a time the symbol of the post-9/11 national nervousness about Middle Easterners on airplanes and for the allegation that you could get arrested for the 'crime" of 'flying while Muslim'," wrote commentator Eric Black.
"The nervousness was understandable, but that didn't make it constitutional....[E]ven the shock of the 9/11 attacks didn't repeal the simple rule that police cannot arrest someone unless they have probable cause to believe that the arrestees have committed a crime.
"As you review the facts of the case,ask yourself which of the 'suspicious'actions of the imams would have been suspicious if they had not been Muslims."
Imtiaz Muqbil is executive editor of Travel Impact Newswire, an e-mailed feature and analysis service focusing on the Asia-Pacific travel industry.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Continental joining Star Alliance will give THAI access to NYC
Thai Airways International expects more long-haul passengers travelling between Asia, North America and Europe now that Continental Airlines has joined the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline grouping.
Pridi Boonsue, executive vice president of THAI, a founding member of the alliance, said his airline hoped to gain more passengers travelling between the three continents, because New York-based Continental served the East Coast of the United States.
From New York City, Continental connects to 21 European destinations, while THAI operates in 10, so passengers travelling between Asia and North America can switch between the two airlines in major cities in Europe.
THAI halted its direct Bangkok-New York route last year, due to high oil prices. However, it expects the new member to help THAI recapture long-haul passengers.
"Travellers from Thailand to the US will need two to four hours for transit in Europe, or they can even take a holiday there," said Pridi. "Passengers had no choice with the transits. Now they have more options."
THAI presently operates between Bangkok and Los Angeles, California via Tokyo's Narita Airport.
Continental is the 25th member of the Star Alliance. Its membership follows last year's announcement of a strategic partnership between it and United Airlines.
Star Alliance customers can now choose from among 19,500 daily flights serving 1,071 airports in 171 countries.
In addition to the network benefits, Continental flights can now be used to create itineraries for both the Star Alliance's "Round the World" programme and the North American Airpass. Moreover, Continental will sell all 13 Star Alliance fare products and participate in the Star Alliance Conventions Plus programme.
Continental's participation occurs at a time when the airline industry is witnessing an upswing in air demand.
Yet Chew Choon Seng, CEO of Singapore Airlines, the world's fourth-largest carrier by market value, recently told a Star Alliance press conference it was too soon to say whether a rebound in air travel last month marked the beginnings of a long-term revival in demand.
Singapore Airlines last month filled 80.9 per cent of its available seats, its highest tally this year.
"The bottom has been reached. Demand has stabilised and even started to grow from September," Chew said.
However, he added: There is not enough evidence yet to conclude that we are back on a firm trail to recovery."
Cathay Pacific Airways CEO Tony Tyler also said he was "cautious" about airlines' prospects, because the global recession continued to dampen demand.
Pridi Boonsue, executive vice president of THAI, a founding member of the alliance, said his airline hoped to gain more passengers travelling between the three continents, because New York-based Continental served the East Coast of the United States.
From New York City, Continental connects to 21 European destinations, while THAI operates in 10, so passengers travelling between Asia and North America can switch between the two airlines in major cities in Europe.
THAI halted its direct Bangkok-New York route last year, due to high oil prices. However, it expects the new member to help THAI recapture long-haul passengers.
"Travellers from Thailand to the US will need two to four hours for transit in Europe, or they can even take a holiday there," said Pridi. "Passengers had no choice with the transits. Now they have more options."
THAI presently operates between Bangkok and Los Angeles, California via Tokyo's Narita Airport.
Continental is the 25th member of the Star Alliance. Its membership follows last year's announcement of a strategic partnership between it and United Airlines.
Star Alliance customers can now choose from among 19,500 daily flights serving 1,071 airports in 171 countries.
In addition to the network benefits, Continental flights can now be used to create itineraries for both the Star Alliance's "Round the World" programme and the North American Airpass. Moreover, Continental will sell all 13 Star Alliance fare products and participate in the Star Alliance Conventions Plus programme.
Continental's participation occurs at a time when the airline industry is witnessing an upswing in air demand.
Yet Chew Choon Seng, CEO of Singapore Airlines, the world's fourth-largest carrier by market value, recently told a Star Alliance press conference it was too soon to say whether a rebound in air travel last month marked the beginnings of a long-term revival in demand.
Singapore Airlines last month filled 80.9 per cent of its available seats, its highest tally this year.
"The bottom has been reached. Demand has stabilised and even started to grow from September," Chew said.
However, he added: There is not enough evidence yet to conclude that we are back on a firm trail to recovery."
Cathay Pacific Airways CEO Tony Tyler also said he was "cautious" about airlines' prospects, because the global recession continued to dampen demand.
Nok Air ticket sales take off at SF Cinema
SF Cinema City yesterday announced the launch of a new ticketing service for low-cost carrier Nok Air, marking the first time cinema box offices have sold airline tickets in this country.
The company is negotiating with another three service vendors over providing ticketing and bill payment services, which are considered a value-added feature of its core cinema business.
Suvit Thongrompo, managing director of SF Cinema City, yesterday said the ticketing service offered for Nok Air would cater to the lifestyle of urban people, who demand one-stop services and convenience. It will provide win-win benefits to both Nok Air and SF Cinema City, both of which are able to provide better services to customers.
"For SF, we would like to provide a service for tickets that are beyond just movie tickets. We are quite ready in terms of ticketing system and IT, as well as a strong cinema exhibition network," he said.
Suvit added that under the strategic partnership, consumers would be able to buy Nok Air tickets at all 11 SF Cinema's box offices in Bangkok and another two in Phuket.
"We have conducted a soft launch for Nok Air ticketing service since the beginning of this month, getting a very good response from customers. About 300 Nok Air tickets, worth Bt500,000 in total, have been sold so far through our box offices," said Suvit.
Patee Sarasin, CEO of Nok Air, said a cinema represented a good location because it is where family members spend time together. At theatres, they can discuss holiday plans and make final decisions on where they want to take a weekend trip together - and can now also buy air tickets immediately.
Nok Air provides domestic routes to seven provinces: Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Hat Yai, Phuket, Trang and Surat Thani.
Suvit said SF Cinema City provided its own theatre ticketing services via four major channels - box office, online service, mobile telephone and call centre.
"We expect to sell 1.2 million movie tickets this year, which is up 20 per cent over last year," he said.
"It is a good sign that many of our strategic locations like SF World Cinema at CentralWorld, which has 15 theatre screens, have performed very well with 20-per-cent year-on-year growth in ticket sales so far this year."
He added that the company had opened SF Cinema complexes in six new locations this year. The latest complexes will be opened on October 28 in Bang Saen, and at CentralPlaza Khon Kaen on December 3.
"We will also open cinemas in two or three new locations in Bangkok and upcountry next year. The investment will be between Bt20 million and Bt30 million per theatre," said Suvit.
He added that the company would also renovate theatres at MBK shopping centre, Central Lat Phrao and The Emporium.
Suvit said SF Cinema City had achieved year-on-year growth of between 12 and 13 per cent in ticket sales in the first nine months of the year.
The company, however, expects to achieve better growth of more than 30 per cent year on year in the fourth quarter, driven by a strong line-up of expected Thai and Hollywood blockbusters, such as "2012", "The Twilight Saga: New Moon", "Avatar", "Yam Yasothorn 2" and "Ong-Bak 3".
The overall cinema industry is expected to grow about 10 per cent this year in terms of ticket sales, Suvit said.
The company is negotiating with another three service vendors over providing ticketing and bill payment services, which are considered a value-added feature of its core cinema business.
Suvit Thongrompo, managing director of SF Cinema City, yesterday said the ticketing service offered for Nok Air would cater to the lifestyle of urban people, who demand one-stop services and convenience. It will provide win-win benefits to both Nok Air and SF Cinema City, both of which are able to provide better services to customers.
"For SF, we would like to provide a service for tickets that are beyond just movie tickets. We are quite ready in terms of ticketing system and IT, as well as a strong cinema exhibition network," he said.
Suvit added that under the strategic partnership, consumers would be able to buy Nok Air tickets at all 11 SF Cinema's box offices in Bangkok and another two in Phuket.
"We have conducted a soft launch for Nok Air ticketing service since the beginning of this month, getting a very good response from customers. About 300 Nok Air tickets, worth Bt500,000 in total, have been sold so far through our box offices," said Suvit.
Patee Sarasin, CEO of Nok Air, said a cinema represented a good location because it is where family members spend time together. At theatres, they can discuss holiday plans and make final decisions on where they want to take a weekend trip together - and can now also buy air tickets immediately.
Nok Air provides domestic routes to seven provinces: Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Hat Yai, Phuket, Trang and Surat Thani.
Suvit said SF Cinema City provided its own theatre ticketing services via four major channels - box office, online service, mobile telephone and call centre.
"We expect to sell 1.2 million movie tickets this year, which is up 20 per cent over last year," he said.
"It is a good sign that many of our strategic locations like SF World Cinema at CentralWorld, which has 15 theatre screens, have performed very well with 20-per-cent year-on-year growth in ticket sales so far this year."
He added that the company had opened SF Cinema complexes in six new locations this year. The latest complexes will be opened on October 28 in Bang Saen, and at CentralPlaza Khon Kaen on December 3.
"We will also open cinemas in two or three new locations in Bangkok and upcountry next year. The investment will be between Bt20 million and Bt30 million per theatre," said Suvit.
He added that the company would also renovate theatres at MBK shopping centre, Central Lat Phrao and The Emporium.
Suvit said SF Cinema City had achieved year-on-year growth of between 12 and 13 per cent in ticket sales in the first nine months of the year.
The company, however, expects to achieve better growth of more than 30 per cent year on year in the fourth quarter, driven by a strong line-up of expected Thai and Hollywood blockbusters, such as "2012", "The Twilight Saga: New Moon", "Avatar", "Yam Yasothorn 2" and "Ong-Bak 3".
The overall cinema industry is expected to grow about 10 per cent this year in terms of ticket sales, Suvit said.
JAL shares nosedive as fears grow
Japan Airlines Corp shares slid more than 11% to a record low yesterday as investors suggested bankruptcy may be an option for Asia's biggest airline by revenue, even as the government again pledged to support the troubled carrier.
"There's increasing concern about the future of the company and whether it's heading for a GM-style bankruptcy or not," said Mitsushige Akino, chief fund manager at Ichiyoshi Investment Management.
The airline, plagued with high costs in a severe industry downturn, has asked creditors for 600 billion yen ($6.6 billion)in financial aid, including 300 billion yen in debt waivers and debt-for-equity swaps, as part of a restructuring plan,according to two sources familiar with the matter.
JAL shares fell to 100 yen, their lowest since they were re-listed in 2002. By the close, the stock was quoted at 101 yen,down more than 11%. The shares have lost a quarter of their value this week.
Last month, JAL proposed a plan under which it pledged to cut 6,800 jobs, eliminate 50 routes and lower its operating costs by 30%, but it was forced back to the drawing board after the government said the steps were not enough.
The airline is now working with a government-appointed task force on a new plan to put to the transport ministry within two weeks. Transport Minister Seiji Maehara yesterday pledged his support for the airline while that process is underway.
"From I can see in the pre-draft plan I received the other day from JAL and its task force, I am confident that work on the plan is progressing smoothly," said Maehara, adding there was no change in the government's stance to support the airline.
But the lack of a clear growth plan for JAL is fuelling market concern that a rescue package may be throwing good money after bad, some investors said,leaving creditors such as Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) and Mizuho Financial Group out in the cold.
MUFG, JAL's No.2 creditor behind the state-owned Development Bank of Japan, is owed about 50 billion yen ($551 million).
Kyodo news agency reported JAL was reconsidering a plan to sell shares in its group firms, suggesting that restructuring efforts needed to turn the company around might be slow to come.
"Even if they do get the funds, where's the prospect of growth? I don't see it,"said a portfolio manager at a Japanese asset management firm, who asked not to be named as he was not authorised to comment on individual stocks."In some ways, bankruptcy might be the better option - it would allow the firm to restart from a clean slate."
JAL has put on hold separate talks with Delta Air Lines and AMR Corp's American Airlines for a capital infusion and business ties, aiming to focus first on its own revival plan, Kyodo reported last week.
Ratings agency Moody's dealt a fresh blow to the troubled carrier, downgrading its long-term debt rating, to B1 from Ba3 and put the JAL unit on review for a further possible downgrade.
"There's increasing concern about the future of the company and whether it's heading for a GM-style bankruptcy or not," said Mitsushige Akino, chief fund manager at Ichiyoshi Investment Management.
The airline, plagued with high costs in a severe industry downturn, has asked creditors for 600 billion yen ($6.6 billion)in financial aid, including 300 billion yen in debt waivers and debt-for-equity swaps, as part of a restructuring plan,according to two sources familiar with the matter.
JAL shares fell to 100 yen, their lowest since they were re-listed in 2002. By the close, the stock was quoted at 101 yen,down more than 11%. The shares have lost a quarter of their value this week.
Last month, JAL proposed a plan under which it pledged to cut 6,800 jobs, eliminate 50 routes and lower its operating costs by 30%, but it was forced back to the drawing board after the government said the steps were not enough.
The airline is now working with a government-appointed task force on a new plan to put to the transport ministry within two weeks. Transport Minister Seiji Maehara yesterday pledged his support for the airline while that process is underway.
"From I can see in the pre-draft plan I received the other day from JAL and its task force, I am confident that work on the plan is progressing smoothly," said Maehara, adding there was no change in the government's stance to support the airline.
But the lack of a clear growth plan for JAL is fuelling market concern that a rescue package may be throwing good money after bad, some investors said,leaving creditors such as Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) and Mizuho Financial Group out in the cold.
MUFG, JAL's No.2 creditor behind the state-owned Development Bank of Japan, is owed about 50 billion yen ($551 million).
Kyodo news agency reported JAL was reconsidering a plan to sell shares in its group firms, suggesting that restructuring efforts needed to turn the company around might be slow to come.
"Even if they do get the funds, where's the prospect of growth? I don't see it,"said a portfolio manager at a Japanese asset management firm, who asked not to be named as he was not authorised to comment on individual stocks."In some ways, bankruptcy might be the better option - it would allow the firm to restart from a clean slate."
JAL has put on hold separate talks with Delta Air Lines and AMR Corp's American Airlines for a capital infusion and business ties, aiming to focus first on its own revival plan, Kyodo reported last week.
Ratings agency Moody's dealt a fresh blow to the troubled carrier, downgrading its long-term debt rating, to B1 from Ba3 and put the JAL unit on review for a further possible downgrade.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
A BIG CHALLENGE FOR THAI TO FLY HIGH AGAIN
AS the new president of Thai airways International, Dr Piyasvasti Amranand will face a daunting task ahead in his attempt to revive the national airline. He has admitted that it is not going to be an easy job. "I am under no illusion about the challenges facing the aviation industry today. And that includes the challenges facing THAI," he announced.
The airline faced a liquidity crisis that at one point threatened its viability, but since a turnaround plan was put in place, THAI appears to be showing positive results. Yet much, much more still needs to be done. First and foremost, THAI must be delared a non-interference zone from politicians. Piyasvasti has, rightly, made a plea that he should be allowed to do his job without any political inference. In short, the people involved should not aks for any further benefits from THAI. Rather they should consider how they can contribute to the airline.
Piyasvasti needs to continue to cut costs drastically while at the same time raising fresh capital to service the debt and cope with expansion. Compared with other regional airlines such as Cathay Pacific or Singapore Airline, THAI still carries the burden of high operational costs. It needs to improve its performance and efficiency. Every division must produce returns. Piyasavasti's efforts will eventually be compared to those of THAI's regional peers. There is no domestic competitor.
For this reason, Piyasvashi has revealed that the airline will raise fresh capital, which will help bring down its debt equity ratio from 3:1 to 2:1. THAI is burdened with debts of more than Bt160 billion. Next year alone, it will need to service at least Bt29 billion. This debt is huge, involving payments mostly for the acquisition of aircraft. THAI operates with a long-term aircraft acquisition plan. yet it has to service the short-term debt for these acquisitions. Somehow this imbalance in the financial structure has to be addressed.
On Monday, Piyasavasti met with senior management and staff, outlining his policy. He plans to spend the first two years tackling financial problems. The next two years car then be devoted to improving the operational efficiency of the airline.
THAI is fortunate to have a leader of Piyasvasti's calibre at this critical time. Piyasavasti has an impeccable track record. He is a finance man. And at this point, THAI needs a finance man to clean up its book.
A graduate of Oxford University and with a PhD from the London School of Economics, he most recently served as chairman of the advisory panel to Kasikorn Bank's CEO. Piyasvasti also headed Thailand's National Energy Policy Office that transformed the country's energy sector in the 1990s, and was a former minister of energy.
Piyasvasti said he wants to bring all his experience and knowledge to bear on the current issues facing THAI, in an effort to continually improve operational performance and the company's financial position.
We endorse Piyasvasti's leadership at this critical juncture. The market, as well as the management and staff of THAI should give him a chance to prove himself. All Piyasvast asks is that he be allowed to do his job without political interference.
The airline faced a liquidity crisis that at one point threatened its viability, but since a turnaround plan was put in place, THAI appears to be showing positive results. Yet much, much more still needs to be done. First and foremost, THAI must be delared a non-interference zone from politicians. Piyasvasti has, rightly, made a plea that he should be allowed to do his job without any political inference. In short, the people involved should not aks for any further benefits from THAI. Rather they should consider how they can contribute to the airline.
Piyasvasti needs to continue to cut costs drastically while at the same time raising fresh capital to service the debt and cope with expansion. Compared with other regional airlines such as Cathay Pacific or Singapore Airline, THAI still carries the burden of high operational costs. It needs to improve its performance and efficiency. Every division must produce returns. Piyasavasti's efforts will eventually be compared to those of THAI's regional peers. There is no domestic competitor.
For this reason, Piyasvashi has revealed that the airline will raise fresh capital, which will help bring down its debt equity ratio from 3:1 to 2:1. THAI is burdened with debts of more than Bt160 billion. Next year alone, it will need to service at least Bt29 billion. This debt is huge, involving payments mostly for the acquisition of aircraft. THAI operates with a long-term aircraft acquisition plan. yet it has to service the short-term debt for these acquisitions. Somehow this imbalance in the financial structure has to be addressed.
On Monday, Piyasavasti met with senior management and staff, outlining his policy. He plans to spend the first two years tackling financial problems. The next two years car then be devoted to improving the operational efficiency of the airline.
THAI is fortunate to have a leader of Piyasvasti's calibre at this critical time. Piyasavasti has an impeccable track record. He is a finance man. And at this point, THAI needs a finance man to clean up its book.
A graduate of Oxford University and with a PhD from the London School of Economics, he most recently served as chairman of the advisory panel to Kasikorn Bank's CEO. Piyasvasti also headed Thailand's National Energy Policy Office that transformed the country's energy sector in the 1990s, and was a former minister of energy.
Piyasvasti said he wants to bring all his experience and knowledge to bear on the current issues facing THAI, in an effort to continually improve operational performance and the company's financial position.
We endorse Piyasvasti's leadership at this critical juncture. The market, as well as the management and staff of THAI should give him a chance to prove himself. All Piyasvast asks is that he be allowed to do his job without political interference.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Airlines and hotels look for balance
The travel industry was hard hit after the first reports of swine flu emerged fromMexico in the spring. Trips were cancelled,destination weddings were moved elsewhere and flights were grounded as traveller demand plummeted.So the industry, already reeling from the effects of the recession,has reason to be cautious as the autumn flu season gets under way.Still, because the H1N1 pandemic strain, or swine flu, has generally not been more virulent than ordinary seasonal flu, airports, hotels and airlines are trying to find a balance between showing that they are taking substantive steps and not acting so aggressively that they set off a panic among travellers.
Their actions can best be described as preventive. So instead of cutting back on high-traffic services like buffet dining in areas affected by the virus, as they did in the spring, hotel representatives say they are focusing on day-to-day measures.
Most major hotel brands, among them Marriott, Hilton, Starwood and Intercontinental, are ramping up the cleaning of items most frequently touched by guests, like phones, hand rails, elevator buttons and fitness equipment. And they have added signs in the kitchens,administrative offices and other "back of the house" parts of hotels,reminding employees to wash their hands frequently and to cough or sneeze into a tissue rather than their hands.
Some hotels are placing tissues and dispensers of hand sanitiser in public areas. A spokesman for Marriott International, John Wolf, said the company's hotels were stockpiling items like rubber gloves and making hand sanitiser available upon request to conference groups meeting at properties it managed.
Airports around the United States are also adopting alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Airports from Anchorage, Alaska, to Fort Lauderdale,Fla, are placing the dispensers in high-traffic areas, often near security checkpoints (where travellers must remove their shoes) and by entrances and exits. They are frequently accompanied by signs explaining proper hygiene practices.
In addition, the signs at security checkpoints that remind travellers about banned items and security protocols are being joined by ones that highlight flu symptoms and ask travellers to keep their coughs and sneezes to themselves.
Once on board a flight, though, cautious travellers will have to make sure they have packed their own supplies. While most of the legacy domestic carriers like US Airways have first-aid kits that include sanitising gel, they say they are not planning to add dispensers in lavatories or elsewhere in the aircraft.
Contrary to popular belief, the air on planes is not the petri dish of germs many travellers assume it to be, said Dr Nina Marano, an expert on travellers' health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention."I think people are sort of worried about cabin air," she said,"but the air filtration systems in aircraft are highly sophisticated."A representative of United Airlines called the carrier's air filters "hospital grade."
Still, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, the union representing about half of all flight attendants in the United States, is pushing for additional preventive measures. Chris Witkowski, its director of air safety, health and security, said the association was lobbying to have high-grade N95 respirator masks - one for every crew member - on every flight.
For its part, the Air Transport Association of America, which represents domestic airlines, says the CDC has suggested that airline personnel consider wearing N95 masks only when in "close contact" with flustricken passengers.
Ordinary surgical masks do not work well when it comes to protecting the healthy, the CDC said. Unlike N95 respirator masks, which offer protection against airborne particles, surgical masks are effective only against droplets, the agency said.
An industry consultant, Robert Mann Jr, said in an interview that airlines might be worried about consumer response to some preventive measures."I don't think airlines want to go in the direction of latex gloves and masks," he said,"because it's somewhat alarming to people."
A spokeswoman for the World Health Organization, Aphaluck Bhatiasevi, says the group encourages governments not to funnel too many resources into screening all travellers. Still, Marano of the CDC said, travellers should expect to encounter a wide range of health protocols when entering foreign countries.
Steven Lott, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association, which represents 230 airlines around the world, said the group spent weeks earlier this year distilling a hodgepodge of entry questionnaires into a single document that could be distributed to fliers.
Last month, the CDC reported that 936 Americans had died of flu symptoms or of flu-associated pneumonia since Aug 30, when it began a new method of counting of deaths, including some without lab-confirmed swine flu. The regular flu season starts in November.
For travellers, the overarching message is one of personal accountability."Frequent fliers tend to be pretty prepared," Mann said."I think the fact that people are somewhat sensitised to the issue will pay off in having people be more prepared."
Business travellers seem to be getting the message."I was actually quarantined during the SARS epidemic, so I'm being quite careful this time," said David Jansen, who works in the anticorruption division at PricewaterhouseCoopers, recalling a trip to Hong Kong in 2003, when the virus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome was sweeping through parts of Asia.
As a consultant who is on the road roughly half the time, Jansen says he has already started taking precautions."It's frequent handwashing, and I take anti-bacterial wipes with me," he said."I definitely make sure I take my vitamins and fish oils and Airborne tablets."
Their actions can best be described as preventive. So instead of cutting back on high-traffic services like buffet dining in areas affected by the virus, as they did in the spring, hotel representatives say they are focusing on day-to-day measures.
Most major hotel brands, among them Marriott, Hilton, Starwood and Intercontinental, are ramping up the cleaning of items most frequently touched by guests, like phones, hand rails, elevator buttons and fitness equipment. And they have added signs in the kitchens,administrative offices and other "back of the house" parts of hotels,reminding employees to wash their hands frequently and to cough or sneeze into a tissue rather than their hands.
Some hotels are placing tissues and dispensers of hand sanitiser in public areas. A spokesman for Marriott International, John Wolf, said the company's hotels were stockpiling items like rubber gloves and making hand sanitiser available upon request to conference groups meeting at properties it managed.
Airports around the United States are also adopting alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Airports from Anchorage, Alaska, to Fort Lauderdale,Fla, are placing the dispensers in high-traffic areas, often near security checkpoints (where travellers must remove their shoes) and by entrances and exits. They are frequently accompanied by signs explaining proper hygiene practices.
In addition, the signs at security checkpoints that remind travellers about banned items and security protocols are being joined by ones that highlight flu symptoms and ask travellers to keep their coughs and sneezes to themselves.
Once on board a flight, though, cautious travellers will have to make sure they have packed their own supplies. While most of the legacy domestic carriers like US Airways have first-aid kits that include sanitising gel, they say they are not planning to add dispensers in lavatories or elsewhere in the aircraft.
Contrary to popular belief, the air on planes is not the petri dish of germs many travellers assume it to be, said Dr Nina Marano, an expert on travellers' health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention."I think people are sort of worried about cabin air," she said,"but the air filtration systems in aircraft are highly sophisticated."A representative of United Airlines called the carrier's air filters "hospital grade."
Still, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, the union representing about half of all flight attendants in the United States, is pushing for additional preventive measures. Chris Witkowski, its director of air safety, health and security, said the association was lobbying to have high-grade N95 respirator masks - one for every crew member - on every flight.
For its part, the Air Transport Association of America, which represents domestic airlines, says the CDC has suggested that airline personnel consider wearing N95 masks only when in "close contact" with flustricken passengers.
Ordinary surgical masks do not work well when it comes to protecting the healthy, the CDC said. Unlike N95 respirator masks, which offer protection against airborne particles, surgical masks are effective only against droplets, the agency said.
An industry consultant, Robert Mann Jr, said in an interview that airlines might be worried about consumer response to some preventive measures."I don't think airlines want to go in the direction of latex gloves and masks," he said,"because it's somewhat alarming to people."
A spokeswoman for the World Health Organization, Aphaluck Bhatiasevi, says the group encourages governments not to funnel too many resources into screening all travellers. Still, Marano of the CDC said, travellers should expect to encounter a wide range of health protocols when entering foreign countries.
Steven Lott, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association, which represents 230 airlines around the world, said the group spent weeks earlier this year distilling a hodgepodge of entry questionnaires into a single document that could be distributed to fliers.
Last month, the CDC reported that 936 Americans had died of flu symptoms or of flu-associated pneumonia since Aug 30, when it began a new method of counting of deaths, including some without lab-confirmed swine flu. The regular flu season starts in November.
For travellers, the overarching message is one of personal accountability."Frequent fliers tend to be pretty prepared," Mann said."I think the fact that people are somewhat sensitised to the issue will pay off in having people be more prepared."
Business travellers seem to be getting the message."I was actually quarantined during the SARS epidemic, so I'm being quite careful this time," said David Jansen, who works in the anticorruption division at PricewaterhouseCoopers, recalling a trip to Hong Kong in 2003, when the virus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome was sweeping through parts of Asia.
As a consultant who is on the road roughly half the time, Jansen says he has already started taking precautions."It's frequent handwashing, and I take anti-bacterial wipes with me," he said."I definitely make sure I take my vitamins and fish oils and Airborne tablets."
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
SGA rebrands as Nok Mini, leases larger aircraft
SGA Airlines, Thailand's first commuter carrier, will deploy two larger aircraft,expand its network and undergo a rebranding.
The Thai privately owned airline,which has been operating for eight years,is leasing two Swedish twin-engine Saab 340B turboprop planes from a Singaporebased firm, as it embarks on new domestic feeder services starting this December.
SGA Airlines will rebrand itself as Nok Mini to foster a closer association with Nok Airlines, the budget airline owned 39%by Thai Airways International (THAI).
Nok Mini will become a sub-brand of Nok Airlines whose management agreed to allow SGA Airlines to use the marque for free in order to expand the alliance's profile as well as to complement each other's network.
The two airlines have loosely collaborated on joint marketing programmes over the past few years.
"Our association with Nok Airlines in the past three years has been fruitful and we decided to take it to another level," said Jain Charnnarong, the president of Siam General Aviation Co, which operates SGA Airlines.
SGA Airlines has already been dubbed "Nok Lek", or Junior Nok, by the travelling public, he said.
There is no cross-shareholding between the two airlines as a result of the increased alliance, and there are no definite plans to boost joint-marketing programmes.
But SiamGeneral Aviation has already increased its registered capital to 200 million baht from 80 million to meet the regulatory requirement for utilising larger aircraft and becoming a regional airline.
SGA Airlines will base its Saab 340Bs at Chiang Mai International Airport, along with two of its three Cessna 208B Grand Caravan planes. The third Cessna is stationed at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport for charter.
The airline intends to initially use the Saab 340Bs to launch its Chiang MaiMae Hong Son and Chiang Mai-Udon Thani routes on Dec 5 this year.
It will offers four flights a day on the Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son and one daily flight on Chiang Mai-Udon Thani.
The Thai privately owned airline,which has been operating for eight years,is leasing two Swedish twin-engine Saab 340B turboprop planes from a Singaporebased firm, as it embarks on new domestic feeder services starting this December.
SGA Airlines will rebrand itself as Nok Mini to foster a closer association with Nok Airlines, the budget airline owned 39%by Thai Airways International (THAI).
Nok Mini will become a sub-brand of Nok Airlines whose management agreed to allow SGA Airlines to use the marque for free in order to expand the alliance's profile as well as to complement each other's network.
The two airlines have loosely collaborated on joint marketing programmes over the past few years.
"Our association with Nok Airlines in the past three years has been fruitful and we decided to take it to another level," said Jain Charnnarong, the president of Siam General Aviation Co, which operates SGA Airlines.
SGA Airlines has already been dubbed "Nok Lek", or Junior Nok, by the travelling public, he said.
There is no cross-shareholding between the two airlines as a result of the increased alliance, and there are no definite plans to boost joint-marketing programmes.
But SiamGeneral Aviation has already increased its registered capital to 200 million baht from 80 million to meet the regulatory requirement for utilising larger aircraft and becoming a regional airline.
SGA Airlines will base its Saab 340Bs at Chiang Mai International Airport, along with two of its three Cessna 208B Grand Caravan planes. The third Cessna is stationed at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport for charter.
The airline intends to initially use the Saab 340Bs to launch its Chiang MaiMae Hong Son and Chiang Mai-Udon Thani routes on Dec 5 this year.
It will offers four flights a day on the Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son and one daily flight on Chiang Mai-Udon Thani.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Airlines agree to better fuel efficiency, emission goals
The world's airlines have agreed to new fuel efficiency and carbon emission targets which go much further than the levels required through regulation,an industry group said on Saturday.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA),which represents 230 airlines, said that carriers, airports and aerospace firms had pledged to improve fuel efficiency by 1.5% a year annually until 2020.
At a meeting in Montreal, they also set a goal of having carbon-neutral growth by 2020 and to record a 50% net reduction of carbon emissions in 2050 compared to 2005 levels.
"Airlines have set even more ambitious targets than governments for the longer-term," IATA DirectorGeneral Giovanni Bisignani said.
"No other industry has been able to achieve what we have done," he said, describing the cooperation in the sector."We are on the high ground and governments must now catch up."
IATA has said biofuels hold great potential to reduce the emissions from planes, and has supported moves to offset fossil fuels burned in air transport.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA),which represents 230 airlines, said that carriers, airports and aerospace firms had pledged to improve fuel efficiency by 1.5% a year annually until 2020.
At a meeting in Montreal, they also set a goal of having carbon-neutral growth by 2020 and to record a 50% net reduction of carbon emissions in 2050 compared to 2005 levels.
"Airlines have set even more ambitious targets than governments for the longer-term," IATA DirectorGeneral Giovanni Bisignani said.
"No other industry has been able to achieve what we have done," he said, describing the cooperation in the sector."We are on the high ground and governments must now catch up."
IATA has said biofuels hold great potential to reduce the emissions from planes, and has supported moves to offset fossil fuels burned in air transport.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
American "Thunderbirds" dazzle in the skies as traffic on the ground comes to a standstill
Nearly 100,000 people yesterday flocked to see an impressive aerial show by the US Air Force's Thunderbirds at Bangkok's Don Mueang Airport, causing severe traffic jams in the area.
After the opening ceremony presided by Royal Thai Air Force commander-in-chief, ACM Itthiporn Supawong, the famous until 3.15pm several flying and solo routines, including group-flying in a diamond formation.
It was the third time that the Thunderbirds show was held in Thailand - the first one took place in 1987 and the second in 1994.
Despite the hot afternoon, an estimated 100,000 people gathered to see the free show.
As a result, there were severe traffic jams on the nearby Vibhavadi, Phaholyothin and Ram-Indra roads while many also camped on the nearby Don Mueang Tollway from 10am, thus causing traffic congestion on the elevated road.
After the opening ceremony presided by Royal Thai Air Force commander-in-chief, ACM Itthiporn Supawong, the famous until 3.15pm several flying and solo routines, including group-flying in a diamond formation.
It was the third time that the Thunderbirds show was held in Thailand - the first one took place in 1987 and the second in 1994.
Despite the hot afternoon, an estimated 100,000 people gathered to see the free show.
As a result, there were severe traffic jams on the nearby Vibhavadi, Phaholyothin and Ram-Indra roads while many also camped on the nearby Don Mueang Tollway from 10am, thus causing traffic congestion on the elevated road.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Hard task for THAI boss
The board of Thai Airways International is giving its incoming president a formidable challenge -to regain the airline's position as one of the world's top carriers through a bold transformation.
The tough assignment came after the technical hurdles that had delayed Piyasvasti Amranand's assumption of the post had been cleared, paving the way for him to take office on Oct 19.
The mission follows the board's decision to embrace an apparently more aggressive strategy of refocusing the airline to target premium and businessclass passengers - a departure from its current industry positioning seen as
appealing mostly to tourists.
Dr Piyasvasti, a former energy minister, has been tasked by the board with lifting THAI into the top five global airlines - at least in terms of service quality and safety - over the next five years, THAI chairman Ampon Kittiampon said yesterday.
THAI has plunged in the latest global passenger survey of airline quality standards, finishing last in the world's top 10 airlines in 2009, after taking fourth place last year in the Skytrax poll.
The action plan under the five-year strategy, which the new president is to put together, will be based on customer demand.
This approach will determine the network, inflight entertainment systems,the types of new aircraft, and the way THAI retrofits its jets.
Other issues such as aircraft carbon emissions and fuel efficiency will also be covered in the new strategy as THAI will strive to reduce its fleet's age from 12 years to five or six years, similar to those of its key competitors, said the chairman.
THAI has 88 aircraft, of which several,including Boeing 747-400s, have been in service for two decades.
Corporate restructuring will be high on the national carrier's agenda for the new president.
Two offshoots, a property fund company and a firm dealing with aircraft leasing, will be spun off to make THAI run more effectively.
As part of its revamped strategy, THAI will support a greater role for Nok Airlines, the budget carrier in which THAI has a 39% stake, in domestic routes where the flag carrier operates at a loss.
Dr Ampon said it was too early to say if Nok would be allowed to take over some international routes, especially regional ones, now operated by THAI.
The formidable task comes in ex-change for the THAI board's acceptance of most of Dr Piyasvasti's conditions,including a paycheque of 900,000 baht a month, for taking on his mission without facing too much bureacracy.
For instance, the new president is empowered to endorse procurement and business contracts worth 500 million baht, 10 times more than the current 50-million-baht limit.
He can also change or appoint 40 vice-presidents, and have them report directly to him.
Dr Ampon, also secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Board, rejected suggestions that the board had bent too much to give Dr Piyasvasti excessive power.
"In good management practice, we need to trust the management," the THAI chairman said.
THAI shares closed yesterday on the SET at 24.10 baht, up one baht, in trade worth 424.8 million baht.
The tough assignment came after the technical hurdles that had delayed Piyasvasti Amranand's assumption of the post had been cleared, paving the way for him to take office on Oct 19.
The mission follows the board's decision to embrace an apparently more aggressive strategy of refocusing the airline to target premium and businessclass passengers - a departure from its current industry positioning seen as
appealing mostly to tourists.
Dr Piyasvasti, a former energy minister, has been tasked by the board with lifting THAI into the top five global airlines - at least in terms of service quality and safety - over the next five years, THAI chairman Ampon Kittiampon said yesterday.
THAI has plunged in the latest global passenger survey of airline quality standards, finishing last in the world's top 10 airlines in 2009, after taking fourth place last year in the Skytrax poll.
The action plan under the five-year strategy, which the new president is to put together, will be based on customer demand.
This approach will determine the network, inflight entertainment systems,the types of new aircraft, and the way THAI retrofits its jets.
Other issues such as aircraft carbon emissions and fuel efficiency will also be covered in the new strategy as THAI will strive to reduce its fleet's age from 12 years to five or six years, similar to those of its key competitors, said the chairman.
THAI has 88 aircraft, of which several,including Boeing 747-400s, have been in service for two decades.
Corporate restructuring will be high on the national carrier's agenda for the new president.
Two offshoots, a property fund company and a firm dealing with aircraft leasing, will be spun off to make THAI run more effectively.
As part of its revamped strategy, THAI will support a greater role for Nok Airlines, the budget carrier in which THAI has a 39% stake, in domestic routes where the flag carrier operates at a loss.
Dr Ampon said it was too early to say if Nok would be allowed to take over some international routes, especially regional ones, now operated by THAI.
The formidable task comes in ex-change for the THAI board's acceptance of most of Dr Piyasvasti's conditions,including a paycheque of 900,000 baht a month, for taking on his mission without facing too much bureacracy.
For instance, the new president is empowered to endorse procurement and business contracts worth 500 million baht, 10 times more than the current 50-million-baht limit.
He can also change or appoint 40 vice-presidents, and have them report directly to him.
Dr Ampon, also secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Board, rejected suggestions that the board had bent too much to give Dr Piyasvasti excessive power.
"In good management practice, we need to trust the management," the THAI chairman said.
THAI shares closed yesterday on the SET at 24.10 baht, up one baht, in trade worth 424.8 million baht.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
AirAsia boss blasts AoT fees as excessive
The lack of policies to attract budget tourists and to promote no-frills carriers is hampering the growth of Thailand's tourism, says Tony Fernandes, chief executive of AirAsia Group, Asia's largest low-cost carrier (LCC).
Thai tourism has lost out to Asean neighbours Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines as a result, he added.
"Thailand's tourism is the best in Asean, without a doubt, but don't think you can always get the tourists without working hard," he told the Bangkok Post .Mr Fernandes said negative factors such as political infighting did not necessarily drive foreign tourists away.
Air Asia, he said, gave Thailand's tourism a shot in the arm after the blockade of Bangkok's two airports toward the end of last year by carrying many passengers to Thailand."People will fly if the price is right. People are not so scared of bombs," he added.
The Malaysian executive singled out what he termed an excessive passenger service charge (PSC), or airport tax, by Airports of Thailand (AoT) as a major hindrance to tourism.
"The 700-baht airport tax is just too high. That's almost half the airfare we charge in a lot of cases," he said."It's a shame that AoT is holding back the growth of Thai tourism."
AoT's charge is among the highest in Asia, he said. He advocated slashing it for budget carriers to 250 baht, the price in Malaysia, to reduce costs for travellers.
Malaysian airports increased overall
passenger traffic to 26 million a year from 16 million after introducing an LCC strategy including a terminal dedicated to budget carriers, and reduced PSCs.
He wants the Fernandes: High fees same measures in damage Thai tourism Thailand, especially because the fee is paid by passengers, not airlines.
"They (AoT) said their earnings are going to be affected a lot. I don't think they are looking at the long term, from the country's perspective or their own bottom line," he said."It is a simple volume game. Do you want 1 million tourists by charging them 700 baht each,or do you want 10 million with a 250-baht charge? Similarly, AirAsia could charge 8,000 baht for a flight to Bangkok and have two flights a day. But why when we've got eight flights a day? We lowered the fares."
AoT's argument that it reduced landing and parking fees for all airlines including LCCs contributes very little to the overall travel cost structure from the passengers'point of view, he said.
With a low-cost government strategy,its Thai sister airline, Thai AirAsia, should be able to boost annual passenger volume to 25 million in the next seven years from 4-5 million expected this year.
By then, Thai AirAsia should also have as many as 100 Airbus A320 jets in its fleet, up from 10 at the moment.
Thai tourism has lost out to Asean neighbours Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines as a result, he added.
"Thailand's tourism is the best in Asean, without a doubt, but don't think you can always get the tourists without working hard," he told the Bangkok Post .Mr Fernandes said negative factors such as political infighting did not necessarily drive foreign tourists away.
Air Asia, he said, gave Thailand's tourism a shot in the arm after the blockade of Bangkok's two airports toward the end of last year by carrying many passengers to Thailand."People will fly if the price is right. People are not so scared of bombs," he added.
The Malaysian executive singled out what he termed an excessive passenger service charge (PSC), or airport tax, by Airports of Thailand (AoT) as a major hindrance to tourism.
"The 700-baht airport tax is just too high. That's almost half the airfare we charge in a lot of cases," he said."It's a shame that AoT is holding back the growth of Thai tourism."
AoT's charge is among the highest in Asia, he said. He advocated slashing it for budget carriers to 250 baht, the price in Malaysia, to reduce costs for travellers.
Malaysian airports increased overall
passenger traffic to 26 million a year from 16 million after introducing an LCC strategy including a terminal dedicated to budget carriers, and reduced PSCs.
He wants the Fernandes: High fees same measures in damage Thai tourism Thailand, especially because the fee is paid by passengers, not airlines.
"They (AoT) said their earnings are going to be affected a lot. I don't think they are looking at the long term, from the country's perspective or their own bottom line," he said."It is a simple volume game. Do you want 1 million tourists by charging them 700 baht each,or do you want 10 million with a 250-baht charge? Similarly, AirAsia could charge 8,000 baht for a flight to Bangkok and have two flights a day. But why when we've got eight flights a day? We lowered the fares."
AoT's argument that it reduced landing and parking fees for all airlines including LCCs contributes very little to the overall travel cost structure from the passengers'point of view, he said.
With a low-cost government strategy,its Thai sister airline, Thai AirAsia, should be able to boost annual passenger volume to 25 million in the next seven years from 4-5 million expected this year.
By then, Thai AirAsia should also have as many as 100 Airbus A320 jets in its fleet, up from 10 at the moment.
Monday, October 5, 2009
MITSUBISHI GETS ORDER FOR 100 JETS
An ambitious project to build Japan's first ever passenger jet received a huge boost, landing a 100-plane order worth up to US$4 billion (Bt133.7 billion) from a US regional airline.
The state-backed Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) is expected to take to the skies in 2014, carrying Japan's hopes of developing a fullfledged civil aviation industry with it.
Mitsubishi Heavy industries, the company developing the 70 to 90-seat airliner, announced that it had signed a letter of intent with US carrier Trans States for 50 firm orders and the same number of options.
Mitsubishi declined to say how much the latest deal was worth, but the catalogue price of each jet is $40 million.
It is the second order for MRJ, which aims to meet growing demand for fuel-efficient planes. The project officially got off the ground in 2008 after launch customer All Nippon Airways agreed to buy up to 25 of the jets, the first of which are scheduled to be delivered in early 2014.
But it quickly flew into turbulence as the global economic downturn unleashed a severe slump in the aviation industry that forced many carriers, including Japan Airlines, to slash jobs and routes to keep flying.
"This is a very proud moment for us," said Hideo Egawa, president of Mitsubishi's aircraft division.
"The world has high expectations for the MRJ. This is especially true in the US", where airlines operate jets of up to 90 seats on many routes, Egawa said.
The Mitsubishi jet project, which has financial backing from Toyota Motor, is competing with small aircraft produced by Canada's Bombardier and Brazil's Embraer, as well as jets designed by Russian and Chinese firms.
"Making a decision of this size in this economic situation was difficult," said Richard Leach, president of Trans States Holdings.
"But when these aircraft come into the market it's at a time when there's going to be a need in the US to replace aircraft. We want to be at the front of the line before there starts to be a feeding frenzy on wanting this technology."
The group, based in Missori, operates Trans States Airlines and GoJet Airlines, and operates feeder services for United Airlines and US Airways. It has been a customer adviser for Mitsubishi since the past five years.
The plane saves 20 to 30 per cent in fuel burn per hour compared with other jets in the same category, Mitsubishi officials said.
Fuel costs are "very important", said Trans States' Leach.
The state-backed Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) is expected to take to the skies in 2014, carrying Japan's hopes of developing a fullfledged civil aviation industry with it.
Mitsubishi Heavy industries, the company developing the 70 to 90-seat airliner, announced that it had signed a letter of intent with US carrier Trans States for 50 firm orders and the same number of options.
Mitsubishi declined to say how much the latest deal was worth, but the catalogue price of each jet is $40 million.
It is the second order for MRJ, which aims to meet growing demand for fuel-efficient planes. The project officially got off the ground in 2008 after launch customer All Nippon Airways agreed to buy up to 25 of the jets, the first of which are scheduled to be delivered in early 2014.
But it quickly flew into turbulence as the global economic downturn unleashed a severe slump in the aviation industry that forced many carriers, including Japan Airlines, to slash jobs and routes to keep flying.
"This is a very proud moment for us," said Hideo Egawa, president of Mitsubishi's aircraft division.
"The world has high expectations for the MRJ. This is especially true in the US", where airlines operate jets of up to 90 seats on many routes, Egawa said.
The Mitsubishi jet project, which has financial backing from Toyota Motor, is competing with small aircraft produced by Canada's Bombardier and Brazil's Embraer, as well as jets designed by Russian and Chinese firms.
"Making a decision of this size in this economic situation was difficult," said Richard Leach, president of Trans States Holdings.
"But when these aircraft come into the market it's at a time when there's going to be a need in the US to replace aircraft. We want to be at the front of the line before there starts to be a feeding frenzy on wanting this technology."
The group, based in Missori, operates Trans States Airlines and GoJet Airlines, and operates feeder services for United Airlines and US Airways. It has been a customer adviser for Mitsubishi since the past five years.
The plane saves 20 to 30 per cent in fuel burn per hour compared with other jets in the same category, Mitsubishi officials said.
Fuel costs are "very important", said Trans States' Leach.
Jetstar beefs up Sydney-Phuket leg
Jetstar Airways, the low-fare carrier that is part of Australia's Qantas, will add two more weekly flights between Sydney and Phuket starting in mid-December,raising its weekly frequency between the city pair to five.
However, the additional flights are short-term only, from Dec 15 to Jan 29,to cater to the expected surge in travel demand during the peak holiday period.
The new service will add an additional 1,200 seats weekly on the route, which will be operated by Jetstar's seventh A330-200, a wide-bodied jet with two classes:265 seats in economy and 38 seats in premium.
Earlier, Jetstar Asia, the airline's Asian offshoot based in Singapore, announced that it will commence twice daily services from Singapore to Phuket, also from Dec 15, offering over 6,200 seats to and from Phuket each week.
Jetstar chief executive Bruce Buchanan said Thailand's position as the second most popular Asian holiday destination for Australians had led the airline to provide incremental capacity in time for the popular holiday period.
Thailand was the second most popular Asian destination for Australian travellers after Indonesia for the year ending June 2009, with more than 378,000 visitors over the 12-month period.
Together with Jetstar's MelbourneBangkok services, the new Phuket services will bring its weekly connections between Australia and Thailand to eight.
Mr Buchanan said the decision to redirect the capacity of Jetstar group to Thailand shows the confidence and commitment we have in this market as a vital member of our ever-expanding Asian network.
Meanwhile, Jetstar will also strengthen its existing long haul services with additional weekly flights from Australia to Bali and Honolulu, primarily from its largest international hub in Sydney.
From Dec 15 until Jan 29, Jetstar will increase its Sydney-Bali services from four times a week to daily.
Its Melbourne-Bali frequency will grow to three times weekly, up from twice weekly service, while Sydney-Honolulu services will increase to five times weekly by adding an additional weekly flight.
However, the additional flights are short-term only, from Dec 15 to Jan 29,to cater to the expected surge in travel demand during the peak holiday period.
The new service will add an additional 1,200 seats weekly on the route, which will be operated by Jetstar's seventh A330-200, a wide-bodied jet with two classes:265 seats in economy and 38 seats in premium.
Earlier, Jetstar Asia, the airline's Asian offshoot based in Singapore, announced that it will commence twice daily services from Singapore to Phuket, also from Dec 15, offering over 6,200 seats to and from Phuket each week.
Jetstar chief executive Bruce Buchanan said Thailand's position as the second most popular Asian holiday destination for Australians had led the airline to provide incremental capacity in time for the popular holiday period.
Thailand was the second most popular Asian destination for Australian travellers after Indonesia for the year ending June 2009, with more than 378,000 visitors over the 12-month period.
Together with Jetstar's MelbourneBangkok services, the new Phuket services will bring its weekly connections between Australia and Thailand to eight.
Mr Buchanan said the decision to redirect the capacity of Jetstar group to Thailand shows the confidence and commitment we have in this market as a vital member of our ever-expanding Asian network.
Meanwhile, Jetstar will also strengthen its existing long haul services with additional weekly flights from Australia to Bali and Honolulu, primarily from its largest international hub in Sydney.
From Dec 15 until Jan 29, Jetstar will increase its Sydney-Bali services from four times a week to daily.
Its Melbourne-Bali frequency will grow to three times weekly, up from twice weekly service, while Sydney-Honolulu services will increase to five times weekly by adding an additional weekly flight.
Friday, October 2, 2009
JUMBO ACHIEVEMENT
While Dreamliner delays hog the headlines, the next generation of Boeing's iconic 747 is nearing completion on schedule. By Boonsong Kositchotethana in Everett, Washington
Unlike its smaller sibling, the delayed B787"Dreamliner"jetliner, Boeing's new and enlarged B747 jumbo jet has moved to an advanced stage of development.
All indications suggest the B747-8,the latest edition of the iconic aircraft that was first rolled out in 1968, will be airborne by the end of this year.
Assembly of the first three jumbos,all in the freighter version, has progressed well with one aircraft more than 90%complete and the others 80% and 65%complete.
Boeing plans to take the three planes to the skies in November and December for test flights that should revive the jet programme after its false starts and raise the aircraft's sales prospects, which have been slow.
Boeing now aims to have the first jumbo cargo plane, known as the B747-8F, in commercial service in the third quarter of next year. The delivery of the first passenger version of B747-8 is scheduled in the second half of 2011.
The B747-8 would "absolutely not"face delays like the highly anticipated long-haul 787, Elgin Anderson, regional director for product marketing at Boeing,said at a briefing.
"This is a derivative plane. We knew how to build this and we have already built it," he said."The system is very much the same but upgraded."
Delivery of Boeing's much-delayed 787 Dreamliner plane to its Japanese launch customer ANA has now been put off to late 2010, more than a year behind the original schedule. Boeing said the revised timetable reflected a previously announced need to reinforce an area within the side-of-body section of the aircraft, as well as a few weeks for cutting flight test and certification risk.
Boeing's largest ever aircraft has had a lukewarm response from airlines compared with the Airbus A380, a full-length double-deck aircraft now in service,which B747-8 has been pitching against.
Despite of the B747-8's new features,Boeing has so far received orders for only 105 from 11 buyers, while the A380 superjumbo has secured 200 orders from 16 customers, including Thai Airways International.
The bulk of orders for the new Boeing jumbo are for the B747-8F freighter version - which has 78 orders - while the passenger model has attracted only two buyers. Orders for the 747-8 freighter came from Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air.
Germany's Lufthansa is the only airliner to book the B747-8- with an order for 20 units - while Boeing Business Jet, a 50:50 partnership between Boeing Commercial Airplanes and General Electric, has booked seven.
While Dr Anderson is optimistic of more orders for the B747-8, he admits short-term prospects are poor, as airlines have cut capacity and stopped buying planes in the global aviation downturn.
"I think once this plane is flying the industry will see how capable and valuable the B747-8 is," he said."If we could get one or two major airlines interested,the rest would follow."
Boeing has been in talks with several airlines operating older versions of the B747 on replacing them with the newgeneration aircraft, he added.
In its latest projection, the company expects airlines to need 740 new very large capacity aircraft with 400 or more seats between now and 2028, with a total value of US$220 billion.
Boeing would not specify how many new jumbo jets it targets to sell in the next 19 years, but it said this market segment would be shared by the existing two flying giants - the A380 and B747-8.
Industry analysts believe Boeing could sell about 400 of the new jumbos within 15 years or so.
While the 747-8 is not an all-new aircraft, Boeing believes the new version is refreshed enough to attract some airlines tempted by the A380.
In addition, some carriers could delay purchasing the European-made megajet because only a score of airports can handle its size, whereas most international airports are equipped for the 747.
Boeing also sees fewer long-haul routes with dense traffic that would allow the A380 to operate economically.
Both the B747-8 and B747-8F are 5.6 metres longer than the current 747-400.At 76.3 metres, they will be the longest commercial jets when they enter operation. The A380 is 73 metres long.
The extra length provides 51 more seats and 26% more cargo space in the passenger version - compared with the B747-400 it is replacing - while the B747-8F has 16% more cargo volume than its predecessor.
The B747-8 seats 467 passengers in three-class configuration, compared with 525 in the A380, while the B747-8 freighter can carry up to 134 tonnes and 858 cubic metres in terms of volume.
The B747-8 has completely new wings with a raked tip design and new fuelefficient General Electric engines built around the same technology as the Dreamliner engines. It also has new composite materials, upgraded flight-deck avionics and a futuristic passenger cabin based on the 787 interior.
Boeing said the new jumbo is 16%more fuel efficient, producing 16% fewer carbon emissions, and is 30% quieter than its predecessor.
The passenger version can fly more than 14,815 kilometres non-stop while the freighter can cover 8,130 km.
More than 1,400 B747s have entered service. The A380, on the other hand,made its first commercial flight on Oct 25,2007 from Singapore to Sydney with Singapore Airlines. There are now three A380 operators including Emirates and Qantas. The current price tag of a B747-8 is $300 million versus $327 million for the rival A380.
Unlike its smaller sibling, the delayed B787"Dreamliner"jetliner, Boeing's new and enlarged B747 jumbo jet has moved to an advanced stage of development.
All indications suggest the B747-8,the latest edition of the iconic aircraft that was first rolled out in 1968, will be airborne by the end of this year.
Assembly of the first three jumbos,all in the freighter version, has progressed well with one aircraft more than 90%complete and the others 80% and 65%complete.
Boeing plans to take the three planes to the skies in November and December for test flights that should revive the jet programme after its false starts and raise the aircraft's sales prospects, which have been slow.
Boeing now aims to have the first jumbo cargo plane, known as the B747-8F, in commercial service in the third quarter of next year. The delivery of the first passenger version of B747-8 is scheduled in the second half of 2011.
The B747-8 would "absolutely not"face delays like the highly anticipated long-haul 787, Elgin Anderson, regional director for product marketing at Boeing,said at a briefing.
"This is a derivative plane. We knew how to build this and we have already built it," he said."The system is very much the same but upgraded."
Delivery of Boeing's much-delayed 787 Dreamliner plane to its Japanese launch customer ANA has now been put off to late 2010, more than a year behind the original schedule. Boeing said the revised timetable reflected a previously announced need to reinforce an area within the side-of-body section of the aircraft, as well as a few weeks for cutting flight test and certification risk.
Boeing's largest ever aircraft has had a lukewarm response from airlines compared with the Airbus A380, a full-length double-deck aircraft now in service,which B747-8 has been pitching against.
Despite of the B747-8's new features,Boeing has so far received orders for only 105 from 11 buyers, while the A380 superjumbo has secured 200 orders from 16 customers, including Thai Airways International.
The bulk of orders for the new Boeing jumbo are for the B747-8F freighter version - which has 78 orders - while the passenger model has attracted only two buyers. Orders for the 747-8 freighter came from Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air.
Germany's Lufthansa is the only airliner to book the B747-8- with an order for 20 units - while Boeing Business Jet, a 50:50 partnership between Boeing Commercial Airplanes and General Electric, has booked seven.
While Dr Anderson is optimistic of more orders for the B747-8, he admits short-term prospects are poor, as airlines have cut capacity and stopped buying planes in the global aviation downturn.
"I think once this plane is flying the industry will see how capable and valuable the B747-8 is," he said."If we could get one or two major airlines interested,the rest would follow."
Boeing has been in talks with several airlines operating older versions of the B747 on replacing them with the newgeneration aircraft, he added.
In its latest projection, the company expects airlines to need 740 new very large capacity aircraft with 400 or more seats between now and 2028, with a total value of US$220 billion.
Boeing would not specify how many new jumbo jets it targets to sell in the next 19 years, but it said this market segment would be shared by the existing two flying giants - the A380 and B747-8.
Industry analysts believe Boeing could sell about 400 of the new jumbos within 15 years or so.
While the 747-8 is not an all-new aircraft, Boeing believes the new version is refreshed enough to attract some airlines tempted by the A380.
In addition, some carriers could delay purchasing the European-made megajet because only a score of airports can handle its size, whereas most international airports are equipped for the 747.
Boeing also sees fewer long-haul routes with dense traffic that would allow the A380 to operate economically.
Both the B747-8 and B747-8F are 5.6 metres longer than the current 747-400.At 76.3 metres, they will be the longest commercial jets when they enter operation. The A380 is 73 metres long.
The extra length provides 51 more seats and 26% more cargo space in the passenger version - compared with the B747-400 it is replacing - while the B747-8F has 16% more cargo volume than its predecessor.
The B747-8 seats 467 passengers in three-class configuration, compared with 525 in the A380, while the B747-8 freighter can carry up to 134 tonnes and 858 cubic metres in terms of volume.
The B747-8 has completely new wings with a raked tip design and new fuelefficient General Electric engines built around the same technology as the Dreamliner engines. It also has new composite materials, upgraded flight-deck avionics and a futuristic passenger cabin based on the 787 interior.
Boeing said the new jumbo is 16%more fuel efficient, producing 16% fewer carbon emissions, and is 30% quieter than its predecessor.
The passenger version can fly more than 14,815 kilometres non-stop while the freighter can cover 8,130 km.
More than 1,400 B747s have entered service. The A380, on the other hand,made its first commercial flight on Oct 25,2007 from Singapore to Sydney with Singapore Airlines. There are now three A380 operators including Emirates and Qantas. The current price tag of a B747-8 is $300 million versus $327 million for the rival A380.
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