This week - A Qantas Bombardier Dash-8 400 just landing at Sydney Airport
More airplane p0rn of course - next week!
Sunday, 28 February 2010
Airplane p0rn - Qantas Dash-8 400
It's that time of the week again - some more Airplane p0rn!
This week - A Qantas Bombardier Dash-8 400 just landing at Sydney Airport
More airplane p0rn of course - next week!
This week - A Qantas Bombardier Dash-8 400 just landing at Sydney Airport
More airplane p0rn of course - next week!
Saturday, 27 February 2010
iPhone Apps - Is there an App for your airline or alliance?
Update History:
- List Created 27/02
- Last Updated 13/10, Welcome Austrian Airlines!
I hate and love the iTunes App Store with both a single breath - least of all when I'm hunting for decent travel applications.
Even when hunting for Airline Apps, it can be a bit of a challenge - so to help things along, I'm going to try and build a list of Airlines who have iPhone apps - with links to the iTunes store. For ease of use, I'm going to split it along the lines of alliances
Now, before we go much further - This list is pretty incomplete. If you spot an airline who sneaks out an App, please let me know so I can add it to this list!
OneWorld
Non Aligned
- List Created 27/02
- Last Updated 13/10, Welcome Austrian Airlines!
I hate and love the iTunes App Store with both a single breath - least of all when I'm hunting for decent travel applications.
Even when hunting for Airline Apps, it can be a bit of a challenge - so to help things along, I'm going to try and build a list of Airlines who have iPhone apps - with links to the iTunes store. For ease of use, I'm going to split it along the lines of alliances
Now, before we go much further - This list is pretty incomplete. If you spot an airline who sneaks out an App, please let me know so I can add it to this list!
OneWorld
- Oneworld Timetable
- Aeromexico
- American Airlines
- British Airways
- Cathay Pacific (CX Mobile)
- DragonAir
- Qantas
- Air New Zealand
- Air Canada
- Air China
- Austrian Airlines
- Continental Airlines
- Asiana
- Lufthansa
- Swiss
- TAM
- Turkish Airlines
- United *** (Not an Official App)
Non Aligned
Friday, 26 February 2010
Saying sorry - the Diamond Club way
A few days ago, a mystery transaction appeared in my BMI Diamond Club account for 1000 miles.
Now a 1000 miles is always useful... but whyfor? Well a carefully worded apology came from Donnington Hall explains it all..
Whilst the extra miles are always appreciated, a bit more communication when the outage was occurring would had been helpful - least of all so that some of us could stop guessing when next we would know how many miles are left in our accounts...
Now a 1000 miles is always useful... but whyfor? Well a carefully worded apology came from Donnington Hall explains it all..
"Over the last couple of weeks you may have noticed we've been experiencing some problems with the Diamond Club login on our website. To protect your data and personal details we immediately disabled the login functionality.
Diamond Club login has now been reinstated. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused you and as a goodwill gesture have credited your Diamond Club account with 1,000 destinations miles."
Whilst the extra miles are always appreciated, a bit more communication when the outage was occurring would had been helpful - least of all so that some of us could stop guessing when next we would know how many miles are left in our accounts...
Wednesday, 24 February 2010
A salutory lesson on Data Roaming - 2.5GB for £8000!
For the masses out there who have brought 3G USB Modems (or as some call then "Dongles"), it's time for some sobering advice regarding them.
William Harrison signed up for a 3GB/month Contract with Orange UK for a Mobile Data Plan - so he would have access to the Internet whilst on the move and during his internship in Paris.
Now if was using his dongle in the UK,& 3GB would be plenty for surfing or Skype'ing. However, the moment you pass beyond the borders of the UK - International Roaming rules apply.
This lead to one small problem - a first month bill of £6101.56. William contacted Orange UK to block the dongle, which he did successfully - after racking up another charge of £1547.21 - taking his bill to £7648.77
I repeat in large letters:
That's painful in ANY Currency. Orange has agreed to halve William Harrison's bill, and has allowed two years for the debt to be repaid. That's still a lot of dough in anyone's book
Remember that EU roaming charges can vary, and can be expensive depending on the provider.
£3.00 - Orange UK
£3.00 - O2 UK
£1.50 - T-Mobile UK
£1.25 - Three
£5.00 - Virgin Media
£10.00 - Vodafone UK (per 50MB, charged per part)
These are EU Prices. Going out of the EU and you can double these prices without sneezing.
SO A WARNING: Unless your contract has provision or an agreement for out of country roaming, expect data bills to be BIG. It'll work out cheaper to find a WiFi HotSpot than to use the dongle. An alternative (which IS viable in the EU mainly) is to pick up a dongle and a Pay-As-You-Go plan when you arrive at your destination.
Links:
The Observer: http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2010/feb/21/broadband-dongle-roaming-bill-shock
The Register: http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2010/02/22/student_hit_with_huge_roaming_bill/
William Harrison signed up for a 3GB/month Contract with Orange UK for a Mobile Data Plan - so he would have access to the Internet whilst on the move and during his internship in Paris.
Now if was using his dongle in the UK,& 3GB would be plenty for surfing or Skype'ing. However, the moment you pass beyond the borders of the UK - International Roaming rules apply.
This lead to one small problem - a first month bill of £6101.56. William contacted Orange UK to block the dongle, which he did successfully - after racking up another charge of £1547.21 - taking his bill to £7648.77
I repeat in large letters:
£7648.77
that's about 2.5GB of data!
that's about 2.5GB of data!
That's painful in ANY Currency. Orange has agreed to halve William Harrison's bill, and has allowed two years for the debt to be repaid. That's still a lot of dough in anyone's book
Remember that EU roaming charges can vary, and can be expensive depending on the provider.
£3.00 - Orange UK
£3.00 - O2 UK
£1.50 - T-Mobile UK
£1.25 - Three
£5.00 - Virgin Media
£10.00 - Vodafone UK (per 50MB, charged per part)
These are EU Prices. Going out of the EU and you can double these prices without sneezing.
SO A WARNING: Unless your contract has provision or an agreement for out of country roaming, expect data bills to be BIG. It'll work out cheaper to find a WiFi HotSpot than to use the dongle. An alternative (which IS viable in the EU mainly) is to pick up a dongle and a Pay-As-You-Go plan when you arrive at your destination.
Links:
The Observer: http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2010/feb/21/broadband-dongle-roaming-bill-shock
The Register: http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2010/02/22/student_hit_with_huge_roaming_bill/
Aegean and Olympic to Merge... huh?
Ok - this one was completely off the radar. The New Olympic Airlines and Aegean Airlines are to merge to make a "New New" Olympic Air.
Olympic air was built out of the remains of Olympic Airways (and the sorry saga behind that). Aegan has had a health growth over the past few years.
Alas, Greece and a lot of companies in that zone have suffered badly during the recession, so a merger of equals will have the obvious effects (Sorry, I'm going to use the S word) synergies (translation - dumping of crap parts of the two businesses and saving money), and will hopefully allow the new company to survive in the current and future environments.
The merger is of course - up for EU Competition Commission Approval
Alas, Greece and a lot of companies in that zone have suffered badly during the recession, so a merger of equals will have the obvious effects (Sorry, I'm going to use the S word) synergies (translation - dumping of crap parts of the two businesses and saving money), and will hopefully allow the new company to survive in the current and future environments.
The merger is of course - up for EU Competition Commission Approval
So what does that mean for Aegean's entry into Star Alliance? This is very good question. Certainly a "Strengthened" Aegan is a good thing for Star, but this in turn begs another questions:
- Does Star wish to be associated with the damaged Olympic band?
- Is Star turning in an alliance of basket case airlines? (BMI, Austrian, SAS, Brussels, Air India to name a few...)
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
Kingfisher Airlines to join OneWorld.
It seems spring is in the air for alliances as companies buddy up together. Today seems no exception with Kingfisher Airlines of India joining OneWorld.
A memorandum of understanding has been signed as a first step between the current 11 members of OneWorld and Kingfisher, and should progress into full membership - subject to Indian regulatory approval from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation.
British Airways will be mentoring Kingfisher during this period, sponsoring the airline (who is also sponsoring S7 Airline's entry into OneWorld)
Kingfisher is expected to join OneWorld (subject to approval) in 2011.
It's an interesting move by OneWorld, who are needing to plug to India gap as Air India is slowly moving towards Star Alliance membership - which puts SkyTeam back in the catch-up position again - even with it's recent admissions of TAROM and Vietnam Airlines.
The fate of Aegean airlines and Star Alliance is going to be an interesting question due to the tie up of Olympic Air and Aegean - more on this a bit later...
http://www.oneworld.com/ow/news/details?objectID=20873
A memorandum of understanding has been signed as a first step between the current 11 members of OneWorld and Kingfisher, and should progress into full membership - subject to Indian regulatory approval from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation.
British Airways will be mentoring Kingfisher during this period, sponsoring the airline (who is also sponsoring S7 Airline's entry into OneWorld)
Kingfisher is expected to join OneWorld (subject to approval) in 2011.
It's an interesting move by OneWorld, who are needing to plug to India gap as Air India is slowly moving towards Star Alliance membership - which puts SkyTeam back in the catch-up position again - even with it's recent admissions of TAROM and Vietnam Airlines.
The fate of Aegean airlines and Star Alliance is going to be an interesting question due to the tie up of Olympic Air and Aegean - more on this a bit later...
http://www.oneworld.com/ow/news/details?objectID=20873
Paris ATC goes on strike... who's next please?
It seems that going on strike is the in-vouge thing to do at the moment.
Both Paris-CDG and Paris-Orly controllers have walked out in a five day strike over job fears, with 25% running out of Paris-CDG and 50% of flights running at Paris-Orly
Staff are objecting to a six-national deal (between Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland) to improve and modernise Air Traffic Control, which it is feared jobs will be cut.
Air France long haul is allegedly unaffected, but short haul seems to be very affected. Check before you go and check http://www.airfrance.com for updates to this mad thing. If you're heading into French Airspace, double check if your flight will or operate.
Both Paris-CDG and Paris-Orly controllers have walked out in a five day strike over job fears, with 25% running out of Paris-CDG and 50% of flights running at Paris-Orly
Staff are objecting to a six-national deal (between Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland) to improve and modernise Air Traffic Control, which it is feared jobs will be cut.
Air France long haul is allegedly unaffected, but short haul seems to be very affected. Check before you go and check http://www.airfrance.com for updates to this mad thing. If you're heading into French Airspace, double check if your flight will or operate.
Monday, 22 February 2010
*** BREAKING *** Lufthansa/Germanwings Strike SUSPENDED.
The Lufthansa/Germanwings strike has been suspended. Subject to the outcome of talks with the Union and Management, the next industrial action - if any will be 09/03. An agreement with union and management has been obtained after a two-hour long hearing at a Frankfurt industrial court.
The strike will be officially lifted at Midnight CET, but expect serious distruption until planes are in correct posiition before services can resume as normal.
Not out of the woods yet if negotiations fail - but a long way there. Unlike BA...
The strike will be officially lifted at Midnight CET, but expect serious distruption until planes are in correct posiition before services can resume as normal.
Not out of the woods yet if negotiations fail - but a long way there. Unlike BA...
** BREAKING ** BA Staff vote to strike - by 81%
In a completely unexpected move(!) British Airways staff in the Unite union have voted to strike with 81% of staff polled voting in favour of industrial action.
However British Airlines Stewards and Stewardesses Association (BASSA) say this may not end in a strike.
Quote:
Legally 1 weeks notice must be served before industrial action. This puts the strike to the 1st March, however Unite has promised not to strike over the Easter period in a play to the travelling public.
More updates will follow.
However British Airlines Stewards and Stewardesses Association (BASSA) say this may not end in a strike.
Quote:
"We don't want to strike," said spokesperson Ken Ablard. "All we want is for BA to negotiate and not impose".
Legally 1 weeks notice must be served before industrial action. This puts the strike to the 1st March, however Unite has promised not to strike over the Easter period in a play to the travelling public.
More updates will follow.
Lufthansa and Germanwings strike: It's a Go!
With the German Pilots union not willing to budge, nor Lufthansa - the strike action and emergency timetables are now in effect.
The action is expected to end Thursday (25) midnight. Good luck if you're caught in these actions....
The action is expected to end Thursday (25) midnight. Good luck if you're caught in these actions....
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Airplane p0rn - KLM Fokker F70
It's that time of the week again and time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week, to celebrate the additions to SkyTeam, it's a KLM Fokker F70 on a CityHopper service from Birmingham Airport to Amsterdam Schipol.
More Airplane p0rn of course - next week!
This week, to celebrate the additions to SkyTeam, it's a KLM Fokker F70 on a CityHopper service from Birmingham Airport to Amsterdam Schipol.
More Airplane p0rn of course - next week!
Saturday, 20 February 2010
SkyTeam expands - Vientam Airlines an TARON to join
Well it seems SkyTeam has finally got a bit busy and have formally invited Vietnam Airlines and TAROM (Romainan Airlines) to join it's alliance.
In theory, this will boost SkyTeams presence in Eastern Europe (with Alitalia nearby), and strengthen it in Asia (where it has Korea Air and China Southern)
In membership terms, Vietnam Airlines will join as a full member, where as TAROM will be joining as an associate member (sponsored by Air France who will represent TAROM).
No formal join dates have been announced, but June is looking good for both of these airlines - suffice to say those on round the world itineraries or those who are looking for something a bit different may find Vietnam airlines to their liking.
In theory, this will boost SkyTeams presence in Eastern Europe (with Alitalia nearby), and strengthen it in Asia (where it has Korea Air and China Southern)
In membership terms, Vietnam Airlines will join as a full member, where as TAROM will be joining as an associate member (sponsored by Air France who will represent TAROM).
No formal join dates have been announced, but June is looking good for both of these airlines - suffice to say those on round the world itineraries or those who are looking for something a bit different may find Vietnam airlines to their liking.
Friday, 19 February 2010
Meanwhile, Lufthansa has a strike on the horizon (Lufthansa Strike)
So if you've been laughing at BA and it's upcoming strike action decision, spare a thought for those who are flying Lufthansa and GermanWings next week.
The German flag carrier and the "Vereinigung Cockpit” (VC) Union (Pilots union) are locked in a dispute that is leading to full strike action, schedule to run from 22 February 2010 to 25 February 2010 for both Lufthansa and GermanWings.
The German flag carrier and the "Vereinigung Cockpit” (VC) Union (Pilots union) are locked in a dispute that is leading to full strike action, schedule to run from 22 February 2010 to 25 February 2010 for both Lufthansa and GermanWings.
- Germanwings have already posted their emergency timetable and rebooking information
- Lufthansa have now posted their timetable, with their rebooking information and German domestic travel via DB already available.
- Those on redemptions from issued by other carriers (such as US Airways, United Airlines, BMI) are *strongly* advised to contact their ticket issuers ASAP for re-routing as Lufthansa will be looking after it's own in the first instance.
- A detailed resposnse on what's what is here from Lufthansa's rep on FlyerTalk
BA vs Unite: BA 2, Unite Nil....
Like warring couples, the BA and Unite seem to be continuing to have their little fallouts in public.
Unite's bid to overturn in the modifications of the contract have failed. Whilst Unite insists it was not consulted properly, BA insists "the changes do not alter contractual terms and conditions for individual crew member"
BA is of course is rather pleased with the ruling, quoting:
For those who have forgotten the routes of this dispute, it has come from BA cutting and cutting - with the latest cuts in Long Haul Cabin Crew, and a Two Year Pay Freeze.
Alas, the results of strike ballot are due on the 22nd February.
Expect Fireworks.
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8523758.stm
Unite's bid to overturn in the modifications of the contract have failed. Whilst Unite insists it was not consulted properly, BA insists "the changes do not alter contractual terms and conditions for individual crew member"
BA is of course is rather pleased with the ruling, quoting:
Unite assistant general secretary Len McCluskey responded with
Unite's central demand over the last three months has been that we reverse these changes, despite the severe financial impact this would have on the company at a time when we are facing a second year of record annual losses," the company said.
"Unite brought this case to court. We believe it should reflect on the court's decision rather than impose an unnecessary strike on the travelling public
"This regrettable judgement makes absolutely no difference to the substance of our dispute with BA".
For those who have forgotten the routes of this dispute, it has come from BA cutting and cutting - with the latest cuts in Long Haul Cabin Crew, and a Two Year Pay Freeze.
Alas, the results of strike ballot are due on the 22nd February.
Expect Fireworks.
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8523758.stm
Thursday, 18 February 2010
Meanwhile in LOLWorld... Is Naked a good idea in the long run?
The thoughts when you're stuck in a screening queue...
http://punditkitchen.com/2010/02/17/political-pictures-airport-security-note-naked/
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
Mobile blogging test post!
Just a test to see if the mobile blogging platform works as intended.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!
Tokyo Haneda (HND) begins to open up - Why should you care?
I'll demonstrate in some simple graphical steps...
Tokyo and her airports
View Larger Map
In distance terms (driving) it's 82.5km from Narita, or 25.2km from Haneda - or in other words, 1 and a half hours vs 30 minutes or so.
Any way you cut it, that's a time saving.
Japan and the USA are starting to open up HND to long range traffic (with BA having a poke around too when an Open Skies agreement is reached with the UK), with American, Continental, Delta and United all piling in to bid for slots.. which are limited to a grand total of ... FOUR.
Yup - FOUR SLOT IN TOTAL.
The expressions of interest have lead to the following annoucing their plans:
American: JFK to LAX to HND
Continental: EWR to HND, GUM to HND
Delta: SEA/DTW/HNL to HND
United: SFO to HND
HND has the potential to really grow again with the proximity to downtown Tokyo - but in relation to the amount of slots available vs the airlines... How can I put this politely?
Sit back - Bun fight approaching!
Tokyo and her airports
View Larger Map
In distance terms (driving) it's 82.5km from Narita, or 25.2km from Haneda - or in other words, 1 and a half hours vs 30 minutes or so.
Any way you cut it, that's a time saving.
Japan and the USA are starting to open up HND to long range traffic (with BA having a poke around too when an Open Skies agreement is reached with the UK), with American, Continental, Delta and United all piling in to bid for slots.. which are limited to a grand total of ... FOUR.
Yup - FOUR SLOT IN TOTAL.
The expressions of interest have lead to the following annoucing their plans:
American: JFK to LAX to HND
Continental: EWR to HND, GUM to HND
Delta: SEA/DTW/HNL to HND
United: SFO to HND
HND has the potential to really grow again with the proximity to downtown Tokyo - but in relation to the amount of slots available vs the airlines... How can I put this politely?
Sit back - Bun fight approaching!
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Eurostar to Brussels? Not likely at the moment...
Yesterday there was one hell of a crash in Belgium that has affected Eurostar services from London to Brussels via Lille.
As the Eurostar lines run next to the crash site, the area has been closed off, and services cannot run at this time. Also Thayles services suspended during this time.
Eurostar reports their service between London and Brussels will be affected at least until Thursday morning, offering refunds and rebookings as needed.
Services to Lille are running with delays - check before you travel.
Thalys tickets in addition will be under the same sort of conditions.
Not a good moment for anyone involved - be it the rail companies, or the ones that were lost because of the train crash.
As the Eurostar lines run next to the crash site, the area has been closed off, and services cannot run at this time. Also Thayles services suspended during this time.
Eurostar reports their service between London and Brussels will be affected at least until Thursday morning, offering refunds and rebookings as needed.
Services to Lille are running with delays - check before you travel.
Thalys tickets in addition will be under the same sort of conditions.
Not a good moment for anyone involved - be it the rail companies, or the ones that were lost because of the train crash.
Nude-o-scopes - Illegal, Unlawful? Could be acording to the Equality and Human Rights Commission
With the rushed introduction of Nude-o-Scopes (Millimetre Wave Scanners), whilst the cries of think of the children have been loud, not much thought has been given to the legal implications of the units - and if they are actually unlawful.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is concerned enough to write a letter (oh strong stuff) to Lord Adonis (Transport Secretary), stating it's concerns that the Nude-o-Scope may be breaking discrimination law in its implementation as well as breaching passengers rights to privacy
The backpedal from HM Government is that we need these scanners to defend our borders and planes, but to appease the moaners, is carrying out an "equalities impact assessment" (and we all know what happens to assessments eh?)
The groups chairman has stated
The Department of Transport of course has all but dismissed this in the name of security theatre, issuing a code of conduct (because as we all know, codes are followed to the letter), and has restated that groups would not be chosen on personal features.
The Department of Transport states:
Sources:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8516574.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/feb/16/uksecurity-terrorism
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is concerned enough to write a letter (oh strong stuff) to Lord Adonis (Transport Secretary), stating it's concerns that the Nude-o-Scope may be breaking discrimination law in its implementation as well as breaching passengers rights to privacy
The backpedal from HM Government is that we need these scanners to defend our borders and planes, but to appease the moaners, is carrying out an "equalities impact assessment" (and we all know what happens to assessments eh?)
The groups chairman has stated
"But, without proper care, such policies can end up being applied in ways which do discriminate against vulnerable groups or harm good community relations."It's intresting to note that this group has stated these scanners theoretically break an individual's right to privacy under the Human Rights Act, with emphasis on various groups such as disabled people, the elderly, children and the transgendered community
The Department of Transport of course has all but dismissed this in the name of security theatre, issuing a code of conduct (because as we all know, codes are followed to the letter), and has restated that groups would not be chosen on personal features.
The Department of Transport states:
"Given the current security threat level, we believe it was essential to start introducing scanners immediately.
"We are currently carrying out a full equalities impact assessment on the code of practice, which will be published shortly when we begin a public consultation on these issues."Oh. A public consultation too. Another thing for the government of the day to ignore. The fact is these have been rushed in, with minimal guidelines and the approach of "damn everyone, lets put these scanners online and if people don't like it, say it's in the name of security".
Sources:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8516574.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/feb/16/uksecurity-terrorism
Sunday, 14 February 2010
Kung Hei Fat Choi!
Just a quick message to wish all my viewers Happy New Year as we move into The Year of The Tiger.
An Aviation tie in? This lantern is brought to you by Cathay Pacific
An Aviation tie in? This lantern is brought to you by Cathay Pacific
Again Kung Hei Fat Choi!
Airplane p0rn - United 777 ... with a difference.
Time for some Airplane p0rn.
This week, it's a United 777... with a mismatched nose cone (or sometime known as a clown nose)
Lets zoom in on some of United's finest work... and not having a correctly coloured nose...
God bless Maintenance eh?
More airplane p0rn - of course - next week!
This week, it's a United 777... with a mismatched nose cone (or sometime known as a clown nose)
Lets zoom in on some of United's finest work... and not having a correctly coloured nose...
God bless Maintenance eh?
More airplane p0rn - of course - next week!
OneWorld Antitrust Approval for BA, AA, Finair and Iberia... at a price.
The Department of Transport has made a move that will no doubt infuriate Richard Branson. The immunity from antitrust laws, for the OneWorld carriers for American, British Airways, Finair and Iberia has been granted putting it on equal footing of SkyTeam and Star Alliance
Quoting the DoT:
As part of the approval however, 4 pairs of slots at Heathrow must be surrendered to other carriers as part of the process, as well as capacity growth plans and traffic figures for review.
Obviously the Bearded One is very unhappy, who sees this as an afront to his little airline, quoting that prices will rise, and that competition rules are going to the wall.
To quote Sir Richard:
Quoting the DoT:
The Department said the proposed alliance would enhance competition in the airline industry "by creating competition with the existing Star Alliance and the SkyTeam alliance, which already have been granted immunity."
As part of the approval however, 4 pairs of slots at Heathrow must be surrendered to other carriers as part of the process, as well as capacity growth plans and traffic figures for review.
Obviously the Bearded One is very unhappy, who sees this as an afront to his little airline, quoting that prices will rise, and that competition rules are going to the wall.
To quote Sir Richard:
"Millions of transatlantic travellers will be adversely affected if the alliance receives final approval.
"In my personal opinion, this draft decision is a real kick in the teeth for consumers and they will be paying the price for it for years to come."Which reminds me Richard, since you codeshare with Star Alliance airlines mainly, isn't it time to bite the bullet and join Star Alliance? There's even 4 pairs of long haul slots up for grabs if there's final approval.....
Saturday, 13 February 2010
OpenSkies expands and BA Mainline Introduce updated First...
Two bits of British Airways news seems to have come to the fore:
OpenSkies opens a new route - Paris Orly to Washington Dulles
It seems BA has given up trying to sell this horse, and instead are going to flog it into some work by opening up a new route - Orly to Dulles, believing there is room in the premium market to make the service work.
As usual, the route will be plyed by a Boeing 757 across the pond, with both flat beds and recliner seats - which along this hop compared to other operating companies may make a better option for those who want a bed.(United and Air France - both from Paris CDG).
The service will be 5 days a week - so plan accordingly (Doesn't operate Tuesday or Saturdays in either direction).
After scaling back from JFK and AMS, this is good news in an attempt at expansion. Let's hope it isn't met with scaling back....
British Airways reveals new First Class.
I'll let some of the pictures do the talking - but who cares about the seat and the rest of the suite? Pictures of Rachel Weisz you want - then that's what you get!
There have been improvements to the product, and its been rolled out on 1 x 777 (meant to be plying LHR-JFK, but can be seen going to ORD if it's a bit snowy on the east coast), and is being rolled out to fit on a 747-400, with fleet deployment happening very slowly.
Like a lot of BA's product, it's evolutionary, rather than revolutionary. Still - it's good to see investment in these crap times.
OpenSkies opens a new route - Paris Orly to Washington Dulles
It seems BA has given up trying to sell this horse, and instead are going to flog it into some work by opening up a new route - Orly to Dulles, believing there is room in the premium market to make the service work.
As usual, the route will be plyed by a Boeing 757 across the pond, with both flat beds and recliner seats - which along this hop compared to other operating companies may make a better option for those who want a bed.(United and Air France - both from Paris CDG).
The service will be 5 days a week - so plan accordingly (Doesn't operate Tuesday or Saturdays in either direction).
After scaling back from JFK and AMS, this is good news in an attempt at expansion. Let's hope it isn't met with scaling back....
British Airways reveals new First Class.
I'll let some of the pictures do the talking - but who cares about the seat and the rest of the suite? Pictures of Rachel Weisz you want - then that's what you get!
Images British Airways.
There have been improvements to the product, and its been rolled out on 1 x 777 (meant to be plying LHR-JFK, but can be seen going to ORD if it's a bit snowy on the east coast), and is being rolled out to fit on a 747-400, with fleet deployment happening very slowly.
Like a lot of BA's product, it's evolutionary, rather than revolutionary. Still - it's good to see investment in these crap times.
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Analysis: JAL - Remaining with OneWorld
So we finally approach an end in this JAL dating dance - and it seems that JAL will remain with the OneWorld Alliance to American's delight (and in equal annoyance to SkyTeam and Delta).
So lets look a lot deeper into this.
As it's common knowledge, JAL has been falling apart recently, and towards the end of last year, it was courted initially by Delta to the tune of $1 Billion. American waded in with a higher offer of $1.3 Billion. However, as we all know things aren't that simple for JAL as in an effort to preserve what was left of the company, it filed for bankruptcy protection in January 2010.
Delta being Delta didn't address the JAL issue directly today, but instead pumped out this note:
It's important to note at this time, no money has been injected into JAL as it is still under bankruptcy protection
So why for the airline?
JAL wants to minimise costs at this time. Whilst a switch to SkyTeam may had been attractive, the last thing that is needed during this time period is the change involved.
Also, this would really open up a competition question as there would had been a minimal American Airlines presence, a heavy SkyTeam presence and a heavy Star Alliance presence.
And the upshot for passengers?
http://industry.bnet.com/travel/10004835/two-reasons-why-japan-air-lines-chose-american-and-oneworld-over-delta-and-skyteam/?tag=shell;content
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-02-09/amr-keeping-jal-over-delta-preserves-asian-strategy-update1-.html
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35310704/ns/business-us_business/
So lets look a lot deeper into this.
As it's common knowledge, JAL has been falling apart recently, and towards the end of last year, it was courted initially by Delta to the tune of $1 Billion. American waded in with a higher offer of $1.3 Billion. However, as we all know things aren't that simple for JAL as in an effort to preserve what was left of the company, it filed for bankruptcy protection in January 2010.
Delta being Delta didn't address the JAL issue directly today, but instead pumped out this note:
"With recently announced plans to invest $1 billion in our product, Delta remains committed to providing a leading option for travel across the Pacific," the airline said.Whilst a Standard & Poor analyst notes that:
“Delta was looking at it as a chance to steal something from a competitor and it didn’t work.”American now moves forward:
"American and JAL will now focus on building a joint venture that can offer JAL significant revenue growth beyond the stability that OneWorld offers today"
It's important to note at this time, no money has been injected into JAL as it is still under bankruptcy protection
So why for the airline?
JAL wants to minimise costs at this time. Whilst a switch to SkyTeam may had been attractive, the last thing that is needed during this time period is the change involved.
Also, this would really open up a competition question as there would had been a minimal American Airlines presence, a heavy SkyTeam presence and a heavy Star Alliance presence.
And the upshot for passengers?
- The Status Quo for now.
- OneWorld members can still earn/redeem on JAL
- SkyTeam Members can groan that they're not getting extended Asia coverage
- ... and if you haven't guessed already - expect more service cuts and more fleet rationalisation as things move forward. Already there are the massive staff layoffs coming, and in addition, the 747-400 fleet is now up for long term withdrawal.
http://industry.bnet.com/travel/10004835/two-reasons-why-japan-air-lines-chose-american-and-oneworld-over-delta-and-skyteam/?tag=shell;content
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-02-09/amr-keeping-jal-over-delta-preserves-asian-strategy-update1-.html
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35310704/ns/business-us_business/
Analysis: BA38 - Air Accident Investigation Board releases results
The UK Air Accident Investigation Board has released the results of their investigation of the British Airways BA38.
For those who have forgotten, BA38 was the Bejing Capital to London Heathrow flight that crashed at the threshold of the runway 27 at Heathrow in January 208 with all 152 people evacuated safely from the aircraft.
The aircraft, a Boeing 777-200ER (G-YMMM), had its engines stalled at 34 seconds landing. Flaps were adjusted from 30 to 25 degrees, trying to prevent stall, buying 51 meters extra and helping the aircraft land within the Heathrow field.
The findings was ice had developed, due to the unusually low cruise fuel burn and a very cold outside so the fuel was equally cold, with ice building up, so when the plane decended, the soft ice had not melted, and blocked the fuel-oil heat exchanger plate, smothering it and blocking the fuel flow to the engines.
It's said any landing you can walk away from is a good one, and the actions of the captain and copilot helped saved every life aboard that plane that day.
Additional resources:
BBC News
Flight - Flaps
Flight - Fuel Restriction
For those who have forgotten, BA38 was the Bejing Capital to London Heathrow flight that crashed at the threshold of the runway 27 at Heathrow in January 208 with all 152 people evacuated safely from the aircraft.
The aircraft, a Boeing 777-200ER (G-YMMM), had its engines stalled at 34 seconds landing. Flaps were adjusted from 30 to 25 degrees, trying to prevent stall, buying 51 meters extra and helping the aircraft land within the Heathrow field.
The findings was ice had developed, due to the unusually low cruise fuel burn and a very cold outside so the fuel was equally cold, with ice building up, so when the plane decended, the soft ice had not melted, and blocked the fuel-oil heat exchanger plate, smothering it and blocking the fuel flow to the engines.
It's said any landing you can walk away from is a good one, and the actions of the captain and copilot helped saved every life aboard that plane that day.
Additional resources:
BBC News
Flight - Flaps
Flight - Fuel Restriction
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
*** Update *** BMI Diamond Club members area now working.
Took long enough though....
Although to be honest, it's fixed some of the issues that were there before ... and none of the others...
Although to be honest, it's fixed some of the issues that were there before ... and none of the others...
Meanwhile back in Diamond Club Land (not fixed yet) ...
A fix is meant to on the way today for access to BMI Diamond Club accounts which have now been on limited access for 6 days.
Meanwhile, BMI are getting a free dose of sarcasm from its members on what exactly they think of BMI IT/E-Commerce Departments at http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/bmi-diamond-club/1044881-cannot-log-dc-down-fix-tecnhical-error-8.html.
Rather than post all the images here, I'll direct you to for comparisons of BMI IT, It's Call Centre, Life in Flexible Y, and a vairy of LOLCats/Cat Related Images.
Highly amusing - but being compared to a bunch of cats isn't BMI's proudest moment in my opinion.
Meanwhile, BMI are getting a free dose of sarcasm from its members on what exactly they think of BMI IT/E-Commerce Departments at http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/bmi-diamond-club/1044881-cannot-log-dc-down-fix-tecnhical-error-8.html.
Rather than post all the images here, I'll direct you to for comparisons of BMI IT, It's Call Centre, Life in Flexible Y, and a vairy of LOLCats/Cat Related Images.
Highly amusing - but being compared to a bunch of cats isn't BMI's proudest moment in my opinion.
*** UPDATED *** RC501/Boeing 747-8 Lands Safely, First Flight Complete.
Flight Boeing 501 Experimental landed safely at Panne Field at 16:18PST, with a bounce of a nose.
Aircraft has taxied to a stop, and as seen in this image, is being towed so the pilots can disembark and address the press.
Monday, 8 February 2010
*** BREAKING - Boeing 747-8F heads to first flight *** PICTURES ***
Frame RC501 (Boeing 501 Experimental) took to the air for the first time today, and is currently conducting it's first flight in the Washington State Area.
Pictures - Boeing Commercial (from their webcast)
More coverage later, but for previous GhettoIFE.com 747-8 Coverage, clicky here to see my analysis here..
Pictures - Boeing Commercial (from their webcast)
More coverage later, but for previous GhettoIFE.com 747-8 Coverage, clicky here to see my analysis here..
Diamond Club Problems - To fudge up a database once is careless, to fudge it up multiple times takes class...
It seems BMI's is having one heck of a little SNAFU with the online Diamond Club.
When you try and log in, you might see this
Whilst IT issues are always to be expected, Business Support must exist in these cases - least of all some communication and updates. The fact that that login box warning is the only thing showing a mite of remorse varies between downright embarrassing to clear stupidity.
Yet another line of FAIL fromLemming Airlines BMI....
When you try and log in, you might see this
- Not good to see - after a day.
- Not good to see after two days.
- Worrying after three days.
- We're now on FIVE days.
Whilst IT issues are always to be expected, Business Support must exist in these cases - least of all some communication and updates. The fact that that login box warning is the only thing showing a mite of remorse varies between downright embarrassing to clear stupidity.
Yet another line of FAIL from
Sunday, 7 February 2010
Airplane p0rn - British Airways 777-200ER
Another Sunday rolls around - so obviously it must be time for some more Airplane p0rn!
This week, it's a British Airways Boeing 777-200ER taxing at Chicago O'Hare International
More of course - next week!
This week, it's a British Airways Boeing 777-200ER taxing at Chicago O'Hare International
More of course - next week!
Saturday, 6 February 2010
British Airway Looses £50 million in 3 months... calls it "Better than expected"
British Airways appears to be doing "better" after a £50 million pre-tax loss.
Excuse me, but if they've lost £50 million down the sofa, please send me their sofas. That's still a lot of cash to loose. However, this down from the £122m lost the same time last year.
BA has managed to reduce operating costs, whilst working on the pension blackhole that exists, however - massive losses are still expected for the end of year figures.
Passenger revenue was down 13.0 per cent, on capacity down 3.9 per cent. Yields were down 11.1 per cent. Cargo was also down too.
However, BA has serious issues with its workers - and the oncoming storm of a BA Strike cannot be ignored....
Excuse me, but if they've lost £50 million down the sofa, please send me their sofas. That's still a lot of cash to loose. However, this down from the £122m lost the same time last year.
BA has managed to reduce operating costs, whilst working on the pension blackhole that exists, however - massive losses are still expected for the end of year figures.
Passenger revenue was down 13.0 per cent, on capacity down 3.9 per cent. Yields were down 11.1 per cent. Cargo was also down too.
However, BA has serious issues with its workers - and the oncoming storm of a BA Strike cannot be ignored....
Friday, 5 February 2010
Lufthansa: Pay by PayPal or it's an extra £4...
One of the things that REALLY do annoy me is credit card fees when you book flights. What was a fee for processing a card is rapidly turning into a profit centre.
Today's example of this is Lufthansa's £50 single UK-Germany fare.
Here's how it's built up:
Ok - apart from the fuel surcharge rip off and the fact I want to go to Frankfurt - not somewhere in the middle of nowhere operated by Ryanair (Frankfurt Hahn is the best part of 75 miles away from Frankfurt am Main, and not served at BHX), and that FlyBe is the other "competitor" on the route, working out at the same price in the end (including luggage allowance - comes out at about £50.99 before any extras - like lounge access), it's pretty much a no brainer to choose Lufthansa.
Unfortunately, Lufthansa - like a lot of European airlines love to tack on a booking fee. EU Regs say at least ONE payment method must be free. With Lufthansa, it's PAYPAL.
Yes - that wonderful arm of eBay - PayPal.
If you don't check out with PayPal (and I've had REAL fun with PayPal in the past), this is the costs...
Which in REAL TERMS on a super-cheap fare is 7% of THE FULL FARE (and considering I paid less than this - it actually bumped it up to 11% of the fare), it is really taking the provierbal.
In fee processing terms, according to the OFT works out to be about 30p a transaction for a company of Ryanairs size - so lets say £1/€1 for Lufthansa. That's a lot of profit for not a lot of work there...
Alas, Lufthansa is not alone in this practice. BMI are just as bad, as are BA, as are most of the carriers. However, until airlines see credit card fees as just that - and not another profit centre, I can't see things changing in a hurry unless regulators start exercising their muscles...
Today's example of this is Lufthansa's £50 single UK-Germany fare.
Here's how it's built up:
Ok - apart from the fuel surcharge rip off and the fact I want to go to Frankfurt - not somewhere in the middle of nowhere operated by Ryanair (Frankfurt Hahn is the best part of 75 miles away from Frankfurt am Main, and not served at BHX), and that FlyBe is the other "competitor" on the route, working out at the same price in the end (including luggage allowance - comes out at about £50.99 before any extras - like lounge access), it's pretty much a no brainer to choose Lufthansa.
Unfortunately, Lufthansa - like a lot of European airlines love to tack on a booking fee. EU Regs say at least ONE payment method must be free. With Lufthansa, it's PAYPAL.
Yes - that wonderful arm of eBay - PayPal.
If you don't check out with PayPal (and I've had REAL fun with PayPal in the past), this is the costs...
Which in REAL TERMS on a super-cheap fare is 7% of THE FULL FARE (and considering I paid less than this - it actually bumped it up to 11% of the fare), it is really taking the provierbal.
In fee processing terms, according to the OFT works out to be about 30p a transaction for a company of Ryanairs size - so lets say £1/€1 for Lufthansa. That's a lot of profit for not a lot of work there...
Alas, Lufthansa is not alone in this practice. BMI are just as bad, as are BA, as are most of the carriers. However, until airlines see credit card fees as just that - and not another profit centre, I can't see things changing in a hurry unless regulators start exercising their muscles...
Thursday, 4 February 2010
Promos: BA Go Dr Evil, InterContinental twists the knife on HHonors...
British Airways - 1 Meeeillion Miles!
British Airways are running a Dr Evil contest, with the chance to win 1,000,000 (1 Million) miles, and also an upgrade to BA Gold
Details at www.ba.com/bamillionaire
Notes:
IC Group wants to hear your Hilton woe - will pay 1000 points
InterContinental Hotels Group are sticking the knife in Hilton Group after the devaluation of Hilton points a week or so ago by running "Hilton's Biggest Looser", and are offering a minimum of 1000 PC points for signing up how many points you've got with HHonors
Link: http://www.priorityclub.com/luckiestloser
Notes:
BMI - Double Destination Miles
Lemming Airlines BMI are offering double destination (spending miles) on all new Diamond Club Memberships for two months.
http://www.flybmi.com/bmi/en-gb/diamond-club/diamond-club/diamond-club.aspx?intcmp=engbmod2
As usual with Diamond Club memberships, it's a good idea to fish around - there may be more favourable offers, but there are reports of abuse and clampdowns on abuse of the scheme. In other words - don't be greedy.
Notes:
British Airways are running a Dr Evil contest, with the chance to win 1,000,000 (1 Million) miles, and also an upgrade to BA Gold
Details at www.ba.com/bamillionaire
Notes:
- UK Residents only
- Must register as a UK Executive Club Member (Euro/World Members excluded this time)
- Deadline: 9th February 2010
IC Group wants to hear your Hilton woe - will pay 1000 points
InterContinental Hotels Group are sticking the knife in Hilton Group after the devaluation of Hilton points a week or so ago by running "Hilton's Biggest Looser", and are offering a minimum of 1000 PC points for signing up how many points you've got with HHonors
Link: http://www.priorityclub.com/luckiestloser
Notes:
- Requires a Priority Club Account
- Requires a Hilton HHonors Account
- Closes 28th February 2010
- Evidence may be required of higher balances
BMI - Double Destination Miles
http://www.flybmi.com/bmi/en-gb/diamond-club/diamond-club/diamond-club.aspx?intcmp=engbmod2
As usual with Diamond Club memberships, it's a good idea to fish around - there may be more favourable offers, but there are reports of abuse and clampdowns on abuse of the scheme. In other words - don't be greedy.
Notes:
- New Diamond Club Members only
- Double Destinations Miles on BMI Metal flights ONLY (Operated Flights, No Codeshares, No Wet leased flights - eg BMI Mainline out of LHR, BMI Regional, but NOT BMI for Lufthansa Italia or BMI for Swiss)
- Double Destination Miles on flights - not status miles.
- No confirmation on end, but I'd give it until the end of the month.
So I try to ticket a flight on United.bomb....
So muggins decided to try to ticket a flight on United for a little trip to Atlanta.
Nothing overly magically difficult (Frankfurt - Atlanta - London)... until it comes to ticketing the thing.
United.com was showing this ticket for $415. Unitedairlines.co.uk (which is the same site with a UK interface) was charging £387 for the same fare.
So of course, I wander off to united.com to ticket. And since I don't have a US Credit card, I can't ticket it. The only place I can ticket is allegedy on unitedairlines.co.uk.
Bolderdash. Pay and extra £100 after currency conversion? I think not. Even the crappy US Airways website can handle international credit cards without a thought.
So I grumbled and fiddled with Orbitz... and got the fare for $425 in the end.
Not an impressive show United - by any stretch of the imagination - and not that difficult to ticket via a 3rd party - even if you can't ticket it...
Next up in my firing line: Lufthansa - if you don't pay by PayPal, it's an extra £4......
Nothing overly magically difficult (Frankfurt - Atlanta - London)... until it comes to ticketing the thing.
United.com was showing this ticket for $415. Unitedairlines.co.uk (which is the same site with a UK interface) was charging £387 for the same fare.
So of course, I wander off to united.com to ticket. And since I don't have a US Credit card, I can't ticket it. The only place I can ticket is allegedy on unitedairlines.co.uk.
Bolderdash. Pay and extra £100 after currency conversion? I think not. Even the crappy US Airways website can handle international credit cards without a thought.
So I grumbled and fiddled with Orbitz... and got the fare for $425 in the end.
Not an impressive show United - by any stretch of the imagination - and not that difficult to ticket via a 3rd party - even if you can't ticket it...
Next up in my firing line: Lufthansa - if you don't pay by PayPal, it's an extra £4......
Wednesday, 3 February 2010
Preview: Atlanta or Bust! Coming April 2010!
And the lo - the Great Circle produced... a map!
Map by the Great Circle Mapper - http://www.gcmap.com
More later - and no United. You haven't escaped my rant yet.
More later - and no United. You haven't escaped my rant yet.
Three More Words.
BLOODY UNITED.BOMB
(and that's the polite way of putting it)
More when I wake up tomorrow and at a console. One more hit on Expedia and Orbitz....
Update: It's worked. Orbitz came through. Rant about United.bomb *much* later, and an expansion of what's to come...
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
BA and Unite - Back into court (Anything you can do I can do better...)
Like an old couple, British Airways and Unite are heading back to the courts to get another part of the dispute settled. This time Unite is taking BA to court
Unite are claiming that it was not consulted properly over the changes that were imposed on its workers - including crew reductions on Long Haul, and the pay freeze.
BA argues it needs to cut losses and claims it was not obliged to consult as "the changes do not alter contractual terms and conditions for individual crew members".
Let the bunfighting continue!
Unite are claiming that it was not consulted properly over the changes that were imposed on its workers - including crew reductions on Long Haul, and the pay freeze.
BA argues it needs to cut losses and claims it was not obliged to consult as "the changes do not alter contractual terms and conditions for individual crew members".
Let the bunfighting continue!
Monday, 1 February 2010
Flying United Discounted Business (Z Fares?) Good News - 200% Earning From *TODAY*
So if you're one of these odd people who choose to book Z fares on United, and trying to maximise mileage in Diamond Club, from todayish (01/02/10), United fares now earn 200% of the base mileage in BMI Diamond Club scheme.
Whilst not the greatest option over the pond, it's not a bad option by any stretch of the matter (as I found out by accident)- and for 200% Diamond Club miles, it represents pretty good value for those trying to get the BMI Star Alliance Gold in a hurry, or if you want BMI Silver - a 232 miles off from a standing start on an LHR-ORD run.
An LHR-SFO run will net 21460 miles in Z - although you will be be stuck in old Business seats until United can be bothered to start the 777 refurbishment project.
Just a reminder - Z fares are typically 56 day Advance Purchase fares (and sometimes more) with a limited set of conditions attached. As usual - read the fine print
Source: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/bmi-diamond-club/1040717-ua-z-earn-rate-x-1-0-x-2-0-good-news-its-now-x2-official.html
Whilst not the greatest option over the pond, it's not a bad option by any stretch of the matter (as I found out by accident)- and for 200% Diamond Club miles, it represents pretty good value for those trying to get the BMI Star Alliance Gold in a hurry, or if you want BMI Silver - a 232 miles off from a standing start on an LHR-ORD run.
An LHR-SFO run will net 21460 miles in Z - although you will be be stuck in old Business seats until United can be bothered to start the 777 refurbishment project.
Just a reminder - Z fares are typically 56 day Advance Purchase fares (and sometimes more) with a limited set of conditions attached. As usual - read the fine print
Source: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/bmi-diamond-club/1040717-ua-z-earn-rate-x-1-0-x-2-0-good-news-its-now-x2-official.html
And so it comes to pass - Nude-o-Scopes (Millimetre Wave Scanner) are now Live
Well it didn't take long to get the Nude-o-Scopes out into the open in the United Kingdom.
The Millimetre Wave Scanners which will solve all terrorist issues (actually they won't) are now in operation at London Heathrow and Manchester Airport T2. If one is selected by security staff, one must go through the scanner - or else one will not be allowed aboard.
It's important to note that if selected, there is NO option of pat-down - you must go through the scanner or you won't fly.
Birmingham International is to follow it is own sweet time, with more machines to go live later this month at LHR and MAN (Including MAN T1 and T3).
Adults and Children can be selected for scanning with all the privacy issues that brings.
Of course to prevent abuse a code of practice has been published (and of course, we all know a code of practice stops everyone in their tracks). This includes:
In other words, completely random at a security officers whim of course.
Scanners must be operated in accordance with detailed protocols which are not published because, they contain security sensitive information which includes selection criteria on those chosen for scanning.
However, the code of practice has been published for all to see at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/security/aviation/airport/bodyscanners/codeofpractice/ with the announcement by Lord Adonis (someone has possible bed trouble with a name like that) at http://www.dft.gov.uk/press/speechesstatements/statements/adonis20100201
My opinion? I have tickets for sale for "Security Theatre". Playing now at Heathrow, Manchester and soon to be Birmingham...
In addition, the flippant term of Nude-o-Scope is to be applied in any post forward regarding Millimetre Wave Scanners in an effort to educate the public about this wonderful invasion of privacy that quite frankly doesn't work.
Hattip: The Register
The Millimetre Wave Scanners which will solve all terrorist issues (actually they won't) are now in operation at London Heathrow and Manchester Airport T2. If one is selected by security staff, one must go through the scanner - or else one will not be allowed aboard.
It's important to note that if selected, there is NO option of pat-down - you must go through the scanner or you won't fly.
Birmingham International is to follow it is own sweet time, with more machines to go live later this month at LHR and MAN (Including MAN T1 and T3).
Adults and Children can be selected for scanning with all the privacy issues that brings.
Of course to prevent abuse a code of practice has been published (and of course, we all know a code of practice stops everyone in their tracks). This includes:
- Passengers should be informed as early as possible that they may face a the Nude-o-Scope (before a ticket is purchased in the best scenario)
- The security officer looking at images is put out of sight of passengers.
- People chosen for scanning can ask for the images to be viewed by someone of the same sex.
- Images will be deleted once scanning is completed.
- Security officers must obtain appropriate security clearances before receiving training
- Training for Nude-o-Scopes must be approved by the Department of Transport.
Passengers must not be selected on the basis of personal characteristics (i.e. on a basis that may constitute discrimination such as gender, age, race or ethnic origin)."
In other words, completely random at a security officers whim of course.
Scanners must be operated in accordance with detailed protocols which are not published because, they contain security sensitive information which includes selection criteria on those chosen for scanning.
However, the code of practice has been published for all to see at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/security/aviation/airport/bodyscanners/codeofpractice/ with the announcement by Lord Adonis (someone has possible bed trouble with a name like that) at http://www.dft.gov.uk/press/speechesstatements/statements/adonis20100201
My opinion? I have tickets for sale for "Security Theatre". Playing now at Heathrow, Manchester and soon to be Birmingham...
In addition, the flippant term of Nude-o-Scope is to be applied in any post forward regarding Millimetre Wave Scanners in an effort to educate the public about this wonderful invasion of privacy that quite frankly doesn't work.
Hattip: The Register
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)