More again tomorrow for this week of Airplane p0rn!
Friday, 31 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - Asiana Airlines Tails
More airplane p0rn for this quiet week, and it's a lineup of Asiana airlines tails at Seoul Inchon International Airport.
More again tomorrow for this week of Airplane p0rn!
More again tomorrow for this week of Airplane p0rn!
The joy of train travel...
Well it's new years eve, and if course - the trains are...
Have a guess.
Correct: Rammed solid, with stops to go before London.
Oh well, I've got a seat. That's the main thing....
)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!
Have a guess.
Correct: Rammed solid, with stops to go before London.
Oh well, I've got a seat. That's the main thing....
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - Virgin Atlantic 747-400 and A340
Airplane p0rn week continues apace at Ghettoife.com, and today, it's time for the Red Tails of Virgin Atlantic to take over the post. This is a pair of the Virgin Atlantic fleet with the Heathrow tower over them
More of course tomorrow!
More of course tomorrow!
MU: Another 50 A320's please...
China Eastern Airlins have been busy and got themselves a later Christmas present of an order to Airbus for 50 A320's.
These units will be delivered from 2012 through to 2015, and firmly puts aside the homegrown C919 at this time from this fleet.
This is in addition to the 20 already ordered by China Eastern in 2009, with better fiscal terms for the airline.
So where does this leave the homegrown COMAC C919 Aircraft? Dead in the water or just waiting in the wings?
For now - waiting - there's a lot of aircraft to sell still, but for imminent growth verses an aircraft that only got 1 in the series and has been certificated for test work, going back to the old airframers is a lot easier...
These units will be delivered from 2012 through to 2015, and firmly puts aside the homegrown C919 at this time from this fleet.
This is in addition to the 20 already ordered by China Eastern in 2009, with better fiscal terms for the airline.
So where does this leave the homegrown COMAC C919 Aircraft? Dead in the water or just waiting in the wings?
For now - waiting - there's a lot of aircraft to sell still, but for imminent growth verses an aircraft that only got 1 in the series and has been certificated for test work, going back to the old airframers is a lot easier...
NZ: Those Kiwis are at it again.... with a Christmas card.
I'm going to let you all count the internet memes here... but it's a darn good effort.
Wednesday, 29 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - US Airways A320
There's still not a lot happening, and so it's time for some more Airplane p0rn.
Today, it's the "high quality" Star Alliance carrier - US Airways Airbus A320 on final approach for Chicago O'Hare International
More airplane p0rn tomorrow!
Today, it's the "high quality" Star Alliance carrier - US Airways Airbus A320 on final approach for Chicago O'Hare International
More airplane p0rn tomorrow!
KE: Goes for the lowest density A380
Korean Air have annouced how they're going to configure their A380's.
And it's an intresting configuration, with 301 Economy seats down the back, 94 business seats on the top deck for business class, and 12 seats at the front.
That's 407 seats only on the plane - which isn't a lot in comparatively to some other carriers (Air France's 538 seats come to mind).
The A380's are to enter service in May 2011, initially on short-haul routes to Japan and eastern Asia, then when ready, they will be deployed to USA and Europe in August.
It'll be interesting to see the seats and the space on it... and see how Asiana, JAL and ANA react...
And it's almost tempting enough for me to get a bunch of points on SkyTeam to redeem on Korean Air...
And it's an intresting configuration, with 301 Economy seats down the back, 94 business seats on the top deck for business class, and 12 seats at the front.
That's 407 seats only on the plane - which isn't a lot in comparatively to some other carriers (Air France's 538 seats come to mind).
The A380's are to enter service in May 2011, initially on short-haul routes to Japan and eastern Asia, then when ready, they will be deployed to USA and Europe in August.
It'll be interesting to see the seats and the space on it... and see how Asiana, JAL and ANA react...
And it's almost tempting enough for me to get a bunch of points on SkyTeam to redeem on Korean Air...
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - British Airways 767-300ER
As there's not a lot happening thankfully this year (apart from the East Coast of the USA being snowed in - as I said - not a lot), I'm going to release some more airplane p0rn images over the next few days between now and the New Year.
And these will be images taken over the past year (where as some Airplane p0rn can date... umm.. years if I was honest...)
First up is an airline that has labour troubles through most of the year, and heading into more next year - British Airways and one of the 767-300ER fleet being towed around Heathrow Airport in the early morning.
More Tomorrow!
And these will be images taken over the past year (where as some Airplane p0rn can date... umm.. years if I was honest...)
First up is an airline that has labour troubles through most of the year, and heading into more next year - British Airways and one of the 767-300ER fleet being towed around Heathrow Airport in the early morning.
More Tomorrow!
Sunday, 26 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - Korean Air Boeing 747-400
Well it's Boxing Day, so it must be time for some Airplane p0rn. As it's Christmas, I should give a few extra gifts as well.
So this week, we're back at the Hyatt O'Hare, with a Korean Air Boeing 747-400 on final approach to Chicago O'Hare
More of course next week!
So this week, we're back at the Hyatt O'Hare, with a Korean Air Boeing 747-400 on final approach to Chicago O'Hare
More of course next week!
Saturday, 25 December 2010
Safety Video Saturday - Pam Ann
It may be Christmas day, but in GhettoIFE.com land, your safety is our number on concern.
Therefore please pay attention to Pam Ann introducing her safety presentation
And Merry Christmas...
Therefore please pay attention to Pam Ann introducing her safety presentation
And Merry Christmas...
Friday, 24 December 2010
Well an extra half hour....
... Is the cost of travelling in these conditions on the Great British Railway system when the weather goes bad.
Oh, and the cancellations don't help really.
As it always seems by the train loads, everyone wants to escape London, but no one wants to go there. Which would be nice but for one thing: it seemed the heating had packed in.....
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!
Oh, and the cancellations don't help really.
As it always seems by the train loads, everyone wants to escape London, but no one wants to go there. Which would be nice but for one thing: it seemed the heating had packed in.....
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - apologies for the spelling!
UK Airports: Open, Other transport... Good luck.
The latest update from the BBC indicates that all UK airports are operating, however ensure your flight is operating by checking with your carrier and or airport website.
However, for rail passengers, there are issues today. As well as trains finishing a lot earlier than normal (as is tradition for Christmas), Chiltern Railways, First Capital Connect and Mersyrail are operating 3/4 services.
Delays have already been noted on East Coast, Eurostar, First TransPennine Express, London Midland, National Express East Anglia, Northern Rail ScotRail, South West Trains, Stansted Express and Virgin Trains.
Roads are still not particually good, and whilst the trunk routes appear to be good, other routes are suffering from ice still. This is affecting some National Express services.
For those of you stuck in Paris CDG, don't expect to move until midday due to freezing conditions.
If you're travelling today, please take care and I hope you make it to your ultimate destination.
However, for rail passengers, there are issues today. As well as trains finishing a lot earlier than normal (as is tradition for Christmas), Chiltern Railways, First Capital Connect and Mersyrail are operating 3/4 services.
Delays have already been noted on East Coast, Eurostar, First TransPennine Express, London Midland, National Express East Anglia, Northern Rail ScotRail, South West Trains, Stansted Express and Virgin Trains.
Roads are still not particually good, and whilst the trunk routes appear to be good, other routes are suffering from ice still. This is affecting some National Express services.
For those of you stuck in Paris CDG, don't expect to move until midday due to freezing conditions.
If you're travelling today, please take care and I hope you make it to your ultimate destination.
For those of you who love being felt up by the TSA... you might be on the interwebs....
Thanks to http://thedailypatdown.com/ A lovley collection of Security Theatre images that only the TSA and America's Finest Screeners can deliver.
In style.
And with the full humiliation that goes with it.
And for those of you who have to run the airport gauntlet today - safe travels, and hoping you reach your destination in time for Christmas. I'll be travelling myself - if the rail network is playing ball in this snow.
In style.
And with the full humiliation that goes with it.
And for those of you who have to run the airport gauntlet today - safe travels, and hoping you reach your destination in time for Christmas. I'll be travelling myself - if the rail network is playing ball in this snow.
Thursday, 23 December 2010
Snow - Dublin Airport: Closed
Dublin Airport has just been closed according to RTE.ie. http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1223/weather_main.html
Reopened at 13:00GMT.
Other UK Airports are experiancing delays and cancellations. Check with your airline before you fly and before you set off to the airport, and check your airport's web site/twitter feed to see if they're taking any passengers.
Safe Travels
Reopened at 13:00GMT.
Other UK Airports are experiancing delays and cancellations. Check with your airline before you fly and before you set off to the airport, and check your airport's web site/twitter feed to see if they're taking any passengers.
Safe Travels
Wednesday, 22 December 2010
KL/MH: Sign a memo - SkyTeam Membership to follow?
KLM and Malaysian Airlines have announced they have signed a memo to allow them to work closer together by strengthening the connection between the airlines’ hubs in Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur To offer "greater connectivity, better schedules and more choice for their passengers".
So apart from more codesharing, is this a litte preview of who SkyTeam wish to want as their next member?
Possibly.
Big airlines are now have already grouped up, either by merging or joining an alliance. Malaysian has been on it's own for some time, and needs to address a weakness it has - that and the massive Kuala Lumpur International Airport - and Air Asia (and Air Asia X) is biting at its heels.
By not joining a major alliance, Malaysian is out in the cold. And sooner or later - it's going to have to come in...
So apart from more codesharing, is this a litte preview of who SkyTeam wish to want as their next member?
Possibly.
Big airlines are now have already grouped up, either by merging or joining an alliance. Malaysian has been on it's own for some time, and needs to address a weakness it has - that and the massive Kuala Lumpur International Airport - and Air Asia (and Air Asia X) is biting at its heels.
By not joining a major alliance, Malaysian is out in the cold. And sooner or later - it's going to have to come in...
UA: Finally looks at upgrading 747's....
United belatedly is finally working on the 747-400's, and is looking to upgrade the economy product on those birds.
And may I say - it's about time. Stepping onboard one of those things is... a time warp.
Jeff Smisek says he hopes the upgrade to upgrade them by 2016 - when it's A350XWB's are due into service.
Some of the savings that the combined UA/CO entinty is making is paying for these upgrades. Even Jeff says:
Again - like I said, if you've been in the back of a 747-400 with United, it's stepping into a timewarp. An early 90's timewarp. And 5 year turnaround is a bit long winded.
What actual upgrades will occur has yet to be decided, but I'd hope at a minimum AVOD and a decent seat product - and not the joke that exists.
And may I say - it's about time. Stepping onboard one of those things is... a time warp.
Jeff Smisek says he hopes the upgrade to upgrade them by 2016 - when it's A350XWB's are due into service.
Some of the savings that the combined UA/CO entinty is making is paying for these upgrades. Even Jeff says:
"The back of the product on the 747 that United flies is not an acceptable level of product. I know that,"
"But United didn't have the money to invest in that product. Well it does now."
"We can re-allocate aircraft to a much greater depth and drive significant additional revenue,"
You have to invest. There is a price for not investing: you lose people."
Again - like I said, if you've been in the back of a 747-400 with United, it's stepping into a timewarp. An early 90's timewarp. And 5 year turnaround is a bit long winded.
What actual upgrades will occur has yet to be decided, but I'd hope at a minimum AVOD and a decent seat product - and not the joke that exists.
Tuesday, 21 December 2010
Stuck in the snow? Lonley Planet is here to help!
Lonely Planet are offering 13 of their guides for free during this snow problems. You can pick them up at the iTunes Music Store or follow the links from here
It's free unitil 6pm Wednesday 22 December 201 0PS, so fill your boots for some reasonable guides!
It's free unitil 6pm Wednesday 22 December 201 0PS, so fill your boots for some reasonable guides!
Monday, 20 December 2010
Hometime Reading: Seattle Time on the Woe of the 787
The Seattle Times has posted a good hometime reading article on the problems that have beset the 787 programme with another delay to the programme in the offing.
Sad, but it seems to be the case of most modern planes delays with the term "Expect Delays".
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2013713745_dreamliner19.html?cmpid=2727
No doubt if more delays are announced, ANA is going to get more annoyed, as well as other partners who were betting fleet expansions on the 787.
Recommended reading.
Sad, but it seems to be the case of most modern planes delays with the term "Expect Delays".
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2013713745_dreamliner19.html?cmpid=2727
No doubt if more delays are announced, ANA is going to get more annoyed, as well as other partners who were betting fleet expansions on the 787.
Recommended reading.
UK Snow troubles - Continues
With movements starting to go along, here's the latest travel updates.
Please remember to check with your airline.
British Airports Authority has issued an urgent appeal for travellers not to go to Heathrow unless they know for sure their flight will leave.
Heathrow is clearing through the backlog, but shorthaul programmes are hit (in particular, British Airways has cancelled all of it's shorthaul flights), and long haul isn't doing that much better.
Gatwick is returning to normal, but delays are expected.
Cardiff Airport will be remain closed until at least 1600 GMT.
Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Birmingham, Luton, London City, Bristol and Southampton airports all said flights would be subject to delays and cancellations.
Exeter has closed a runway until at least 1900 GMT.
Stansted is said to be operating as normal.
Eurostar has implemented an emergency snow timetable, and will not be selling tickets for services until 24th December
Rail Services are still being hammered - please check before you travel.
In addition, it's not just the UK being hit, there continues to be disruption at airports in Frankfurt, Paris, Florence and Amsterdam.
Be careful and travel only if you need too!
Please remember to check with your airline.
British Airports Authority has issued an urgent appeal for travellers not to go to Heathrow unless they know for sure their flight will leave.
Heathrow is clearing through the backlog, but shorthaul programmes are hit (in particular, British Airways has cancelled all of it's shorthaul flights), and long haul isn't doing that much better.
Gatwick is returning to normal, but delays are expected.
Cardiff Airport will be remain closed until at least 1600 GMT.
Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Birmingham, Luton, London City, Bristol and Southampton airports all said flights would be subject to delays and cancellations.
Exeter has closed a runway until at least 1900 GMT.
Stansted is said to be operating as normal.
Eurostar has implemented an emergency snow timetable, and will not be selling tickets for services until 24th December
Rail Services are still being hammered - please check before you travel.
In addition, it's not just the UK being hit, there continues to be disruption at airports in Frankfurt, Paris, Florence and Amsterdam.
Be careful and travel only if you need too!
UK Snow - More trouble exepected
Well as most of Europe seems not to be coping with snow, here is the latest updates on who's doing what
Monday, more snow is expected in the South East, bringing Heathrow and Gatwick back into the firing line.
Heathrow is expecting some movements, but fully expects to be snowed in. Gatwick has had about a 1/4 of the movements expected, but is expecting the worst tommorow.
Regional airports are suffering with delays, but are open, however, check the list below and click through the website. If in doubt, consult your airline as rebooking policies should be live.
For those of you who might be confused by some of the Three Lettered Codes (IATA) of Airports I use in the blog posts, here's a semi-comprehensive list of major airports within the United Kingdom and Ireland area. The link to the respective airport's site is also there too. I've added a Twitter feed if they have it too.
Ireland
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
Twitter Follow Links
For those of you who use Twitter, you can add the following feeds for up-to-date news and spam from the following airports:
England
Monday, more snow is expected in the South East, bringing Heathrow and Gatwick back into the firing line.
Heathrow is expecting some movements, but fully expects to be snowed in. Gatwick has had about a 1/4 of the movements expected, but is expecting the worst tommorow.
Regional airports are suffering with delays, but are open, however, check the list below and click through the website. If in doubt, consult your airline as rebooking policies should be live.
For those of you who might be confused by some of the Three Lettered Codes (IATA) of Airports I use in the blog posts, here's a semi-comprehensive list of major airports within the United Kingdom and Ireland area. The link to the respective airport's site is also there too. I've added a Twitter feed if they have it too.
| IATA | Airport Name and Link |
| BHX | Birmingham Airport |
| BLK | Blackpool International Airport |
| BOH | Bournemouth Airport |
| BRS | Bristol Airport |
| MME | Durham Tees Valley Airport |
| EMA | East Midlands Airport |
| EXY | Exeter Airport |
| HUY | Humberside International Airport |
| LBA | Leeds Bradford Airport |
| LPL | Liverpool John Lennon Airport |
| LCY | London City Airport |
| LGW | London Gatwick Airport |
| LHR | London Heathrow Airport |
| STN | London Stansted Airport |
| LTN | Luton Airport |
| MAN | Manchester Airport |
| NCL | Newcastle Airport |
| NQY | Newquy Airport |
| NWI | Norwich Airport |
| DSA | Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield |
| SOU | Southampton Airport |
Ireland
| ORK | Cork Airport |
| DUB | Dublin Airport |
| NOC | Knock Airport |
| SNN | Shannon Airport |
Northern Ireland
| BFS | Belfast International Airport |
| BHD | George Best Belfast City Airport |
| LDY | Derry Airport |
Scotland
| ABZ | Aberdeen |
| EDI | Edinburgh |
| GLA | Glasgow International |
| PIK | Glasgow Prestwick |
| INV | Inverness |
Wales
| CWL | Cardiff Airport |
Twitter Follow Links
For those of you who use Twitter, you can add the following feeds for up-to-date news and spam from the following airports:
England
- Birmingham - twitter.com/bhx_official
- Durham - twitter.com/DurhamTVAirport
- Liverpool - twitter.com/LPL_Airport
- London City - twitter.com/LondonCityAir
- London Gatwick - twitter.com/Gatwick_Airport
- London Heathrow -twitter.com/heathrowairport
- Manchester - twitter.com/manairport
- Southampton - twitter.com/SOU_Airport
- Dublin - twitter.com/DublinAirport
- Belfast - twitter.com/BELFASTAIRPORT
- Aberdeen - twitter.com/ABZ_Airport
- Edinburgh - twitter.com/EDI_Airport
- Glasgow - twitter.com/GLA_Airport
- Cardiff - twitter.com/Cardiff_Airport
Sunday, 19 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - Lufthansa A320 RetroJet
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week, it's the Lufthansa RetroJet, parked up at its base at Frankfurt Airport awaiting it's next duty
More of course next week!
This week, it's the Lufthansa RetroJet, parked up at its base at Frankfurt Airport awaiting it's next duty
More of course next week!
UK - Lots of Snow - Except Delays
Well of course, more snow has been dumped (and even if negotiating to the shops is near enough impossible), UK airports are suffering due to the weather.
Head to the Airports list, and click your airport that you might be flying from.
And when in doubt - contact your operator.
Safe travels to all!
Head to the Airports list, and click your airport that you might be flying from.
And when in doubt - contact your operator.
Safe travels to all!
Saturday, 18 December 2010
Safety Video Saturday - Emirates A380
It's Saturday again, so it's time to put your seat into the upright position, stow your tray table and pay attention to this weeks safety video from Emirates and their A380 product
In English...
and in Arabic
More next week!
In English...
and in Arabic
More next week!
Thursday, 16 December 2010
AA: Expands Manchester Services, Year-Round services to JFK
AA is boosting it's regional credentials, by taking one of it's services year-round from Manchester UK to New York-JFK.
After beating BMI with the Manchester <> Chicago services, and taking a minor beating from Delta with it's MAN-JFK, American Airlines is back again, to relaunch Manchester - New York JFK, and is expected to remain a year-round service.
Route commences 6th April 2011, to be operated by a 757-200 in a two-class configuration.
Manchester has a bevvy of services to the New York area with all the alliances covered - with Delta (SkyTeam) operating to JFK and Continental (Star Alliance) operating to EWR
Lets hope they can make a good go of it.
After beating BMI with the Manchester <> Chicago services, and taking a minor beating from Delta with it's MAN-JFK, American Airlines is back again, to relaunch Manchester - New York JFK, and is expected to remain a year-round service.
Route commences 6th April 2011, to be operated by a 757-200 in a two-class configuration.
Flight From Dept To Arrive
AA211 MAN 09:50 JFK 1240
AA210 JFK 20:25 MAN 08:45+1Manchester has a bevvy of services to the New York area with all the alliances covered - with Delta (SkyTeam) operating to JFK and Continental (Star Alliance) operating to EWR
Lets hope they can make a good go of it.
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
Even Santa has to deal with the TSA....
So if your presents are delayed this year, we all know who to blame....
Thanks to: Pundit Kitchen - http://news.icanhascheezburger.com/2010/12/15/political-pictures-you-want-to-do-what-but-im-santa/
BA: BA vs Unite - Notification of Ballot sent - Possible strike action ahead
Like two old women moaning and arguing, British Airways and Unite are once again locking horns.
As they cannot agree over:
I could give time to both points, but really, I'm not intrested. As a customer two words come to mind.
Otherwise, customers will decide BA's future, and the future of Unite's members for them.
As they cannot agree over:
- The immediate restoration of staff travel concessions, in full, to the crew from whom they were taken by BA.
- Binding arbitration, through ACAS, of all cabin crew disciplinary cases related to the original dispute.
- The restoration of all earnings docked from crew who were genuinely off sick during strike dates.
- Full and proper discussion of the trade union facilities agreement at the company with the immediate removal of all threats and sanctions made by BA in relation to this.
- The introduction of mixed fleet on different terms and conditions without the agreement of the trade union.
I could give time to both points, but really, I'm not intrested. As a customer two words come to mind.
SORT IT!
Otherwise, customers will decide BA's future, and the future of Unite's members for them.
APD: Want to fly from the south east? There could be a tax for that!
It seems the current administration really wants to turn the screws for taxes, with a new aviation policy in the offing.
Now whilst most of us couldn't give two tosses what's in it (least of all Heathrow will be ignored, expansion ignored, etc etc etc), this gem comes from Theresa Villiers, Minister of State for Aviation
It isn't any of the regional airports like East Midlands, Norwich, Bristol, Aberdeen or Blackpool.
So Minister for Aviation, what is this apart from a possible taxation exercise that will create MORE confusion to the visitor and traveller departing from the United Kingdom?
Of course, since no government minister would actually admit to it being a taxation exercise, this is moot really....
Now whilst most of us couldn't give two tosses what's in it (least of all Heathrow will be ignored, expansion ignored, etc etc etc), this gem comes from Theresa Villiers, Minister of State for Aviation
"It is not inconceivable that our tax reform might look at a higher tax to fly from congested south east airports"The aim being to boost regional traffic, and balance out heavy hits the London Airports take for most of the international traffic. According to the minister:
"A key part of our approach is to create conditions for regional airports to flourish, and this also has the potential to help relieve overcrowding at south east airports," she adds.Ok. Lets take a step back here HM Government. When you go abroad and ask people the first UK city they think of, it isn't Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Belfast or Birmingham.
It isn't any of the regional airports like East Midlands, Norwich, Bristol, Aberdeen or Blackpool.
It's LONDON!
So Minister for Aviation, what is this apart from a possible taxation exercise that will create MORE confusion to the visitor and traveller departing from the United Kingdom?
Of course, since no government minister would actually admit to it being a taxation exercise, this is moot really....
Tuesday, 14 December 2010
BA: Fuel Surcharge on the up.
Bad news if you fly BA, as the fuel surcharge (the dreaded YQ) is on the up again by another £10 a sector on long haul services.
Short Haul services are unaffected, but those going the distance, prepare to pay more.
World Traveller (Economy), Less than 9 hours goes from £53 to £63
World Traveller (Economy), Greater than 9 hours goes from £66 to £76
World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Less than 9 hours goes from £63 to £73
World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Greater than 9 hours goes from £84.50 to £94.50
First and Club World, Less than 9 hours goes from £78 to £88
First and Club World, Greater than 9 hours goes from £98 to £108
This takes effect from Thursday 16th December.
So if you need to do a BA redemption, or to book a BA long haul flight, I'd get booking today/tomorrow...
Short Haul services are unaffected, but those going the distance, prepare to pay more.
World Traveller (Economy), Less than 9 hours goes from £53 to £63
World Traveller (Economy), Greater than 9 hours goes from £66 to £76
World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Less than 9 hours goes from £63 to £73
World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Greater than 9 hours goes from £84.50 to £94.50
First and Club World, Less than 9 hours goes from £78 to £88
First and Club World, Greater than 9 hours goes from £98 to £108
This takes effect from Thursday 16th December.
So if you need to do a BA redemption, or to book a BA long haul flight, I'd get booking today/tomorrow...
BD: BMI's visit to the strategy boutique hits the front page.
In what will become known as the blue button phase, the rollout of the new logo has hit the BMI website.
Well it's there. And pefectly timed in the middle of a repaint phase of the fleet.
That's our BMI I guess...
Well it's there. And pefectly timed in the middle of a repaint phase of the fleet.
That's our BMI I guess...
Monday, 13 December 2010
BD: Off to the Strategy Boutique once again with a new logo
BMI once again has gone off to the Strategy Boutique* and has re-logoed itself - revealed in a Lufthansa Newsletter with thanks to oliver2002 on FlyerTalk
And this is what they've spent money on this time..
Well it's a logo I suppose. Any resemblance to the OneWorld logo is just a passing concern.
There's also an interesting piece of PR from Lufthansa and Donnington Hall HQ on the future of BMI. Which is nice enough fluff. Kills a few minutes if you're bored.
This is of course is one of BMI's many trips to the Strategy Boutique, with the renaming of lounges, new soft furnishings on aircraft, trips to the paint shop (when they can be bothered), etc ...
For the uninitiated, the term "javascript:void(0)Strategy Boutique" comes from when a company does a re-brand, and the "joss stick - PowerPoint - Laser Pointing wielding execs" actually get creative.
As demonstrated so eloquently by "The Register"
And this is what they've spent money on this time..
Well it's a logo I suppose. Any resemblance to the OneWorld logo is just a passing concern.
There's also an interesting piece of PR from Lufthansa and Donnington Hall HQ on the future of BMI. Which is nice enough fluff. Kills a few minutes if you're bored.
This is of course is one of BMI's many trips to the Strategy Boutique, with the renaming of lounges, new soft furnishings on aircraft, trips to the paint shop (when they can be bothered), etc ...
For the uninitiated, the term "javascript:void(0)Strategy Boutique" comes from when a company does a re-brand, and the "joss stick - PowerPoint - Laser Pointing wielding execs" actually get creative.
As demonstrated so eloquently by "The Register"
SQ: No more economy for you on the top deck!
Singapore Airlines has dissapointingly decided the stragegy of having Economy on both decks of an A380 is to come to an end with the delivery of new aircraft next year according to Business Traveller
What as a nice cabin in a A340/A330'eqse 2 x 4 x 2 seating (as opposed to the main deck holding 3 x 4 x 3) in a very "mini-club" cabin will become harder to get hold of when the 13th A380 and all aircraft onwards will not have an economy product on the top deck, but instead will make most of that deck business class.
From May onwards, expect the new aircraft to be rostered onto high business routes - so London <> Singapore is a prime candidate, as a Paris and Zurich. The old units will not be modified, but be rostered onto lower business class routes
So keep an eye on those seating plans as one this gets confusing quickly.
A big shame really. But if it means Singapore Airlines can extract more cash to buy more toys and pay people.....
What as a nice cabin in a A340/A330'eqse 2 x 4 x 2 seating (as opposed to the main deck holding 3 x 4 x 3) in a very "mini-club" cabin will become harder to get hold of when the 13th A380 and all aircraft onwards will not have an economy product on the top deck, but instead will make most of that deck business class.
From May onwards, expect the new aircraft to be rostered onto high business routes - so London <> Singapore is a prime candidate, as a Paris and Zurich. The old units will not be modified, but be rostered onto lower business class routes
So keep an eye on those seating plans as one this gets confusing quickly.
A big shame really. But if it means Singapore Airlines can extract more cash to buy more toys and pay people.....
Sunday, 12 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - Delta 767-300ER
.. and speaking of Delta, it's Sunday - so it's time for some airplane p0rn.
And it's a Delta 767-300ER in the Deltaflot style colour scheme, taken at Dublin Airport
More of course next week!
And it's a Delta 767-300ER in the Deltaflot style colour scheme, taken at Dublin Airport
More of course next week!
DL: Delta Customer Service - According to VirtualShackles....
I'll let the cartoon do the talking...
But in some ways, we've all encountered this (well maybe not the last panel....)
Source: http://www.virtualshackles.com/159
But in some ways, we've all encountered this (well maybe not the last panel....)
Source: http://www.virtualshackles.com/159
Saturday, 11 December 2010
Safety Video Saturday - Thomson Airlines A320
It's that time again to put your seat back into the upright position, stow your tray table and put your seatbelt on as Thomson gives us a safety demo for their A320's
More of course next week!
More of course next week!
Friday, 10 December 2010
LH: FRA-JFK? Yep. A380 Land.
Lufthansa are laying in the plans for it's A380 fleet.
Already serving Johannesburg, Tokyo and Being, the next target for the LH A380's will be New York - John F Kennedy International.
This will be the destination of the 5th A380 when it arrives in February.
JFK isn't a stranger to A380's with Emirates running services there originally, before it redeployed them to Toronoto. Hopefully with the upgrades that are being made to JFK, it will be more A380 friendly.
And that's if Rolls Royce have actually made engines that don't leak oil.
Already serving Johannesburg, Tokyo and Being, the next target for the LH A380's will be New York - John F Kennedy International.
This will be the destination of the 5th A380 when it arrives in February.
JFK isn't a stranger to A380's with Emirates running services there originally, before it redeployed them to Toronoto. Hopefully with the upgrades that are being made to JFK, it will be more A380 friendly.
And that's if Rolls Royce have actually made engines that don't leak oil.
BD: Sir Michael Bishop talks to Airline Business.
BMI's ex-CEO Sir Michael Bishop talks to Airline Business Magazine. It's an interesting retrospective of being man with the "the little airline" at Heathrow, and some of his views on the future, in particular the role of security and the delays airframers are taking to get products into market.
Interesting reading for those who need something to nibble on.
http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/11/22/349768/ab25-former-bmi-chairman-sir-michael-bishop.html
Interesting reading for those who need something to nibble on.
http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/11/22/349768/ab25-former-bmi-chairman-sir-michael-bishop.html
Thursday, 9 December 2010
EK: A380 damaged by catering truck...
If it's not one thing with A380's, it's another. And today's news from Toronto is a small wakeup to those supply those A380's.
Emirates has withdawn one of its A380 from use after an incident with a catering truck, damaged the right wing of the aircraft.
The truck is a scisor lift truck, and was servicing the top deck of the aircraft during the incident when it failed, and the body of the truck struck the wing - "on the leading edge of the inboard starboard wing and wing root".
As the aircraft was being serviced, no passengers were aboard. The A380 has been withdrawn pending an examination to the damage.
Emirates has withdawn one of its A380 from use after an incident with a catering truck, damaged the right wing of the aircraft.
The truck is a scisor lift truck, and was servicing the top deck of the aircraft during the incident when it failed, and the body of the truck struck the wing - "on the leading edge of the inboard starboard wing and wing root".
As the aircraft was being serviced, no passengers were aboard. The A380 has been withdrawn pending an examination to the damage.
Security at the airport - no, not Security Theatre, but Computer Security....
We all go through airport security time and a again thinking what security theatre nonsense we are going to have to put up with today.
However for those of you who use Internet Kisoks, or computers left in lounges for your use, are you practicing safe computing?
The chances are - not.
Paul Ducklin of Sophos has written an excellent artricle on what he found on one Mac in a Qantas lounge. It may surprise you what you leave behind.
My advice is simple - either take your own laptop and use trusted WiFi connections, or stick to very generalised browsing only. Don't rely on these computers to connect to corporate LANs safely as to be honest, you don't know what the last person did before you logged on.
A reasonable read. Highly recommded.
http://nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2010/12/09/airport-insecurity-and-high-risk-travel/
However for those of you who use Internet Kisoks, or computers left in lounges for your use, are you practicing safe computing?
The chances are - not.
Paul Ducklin of Sophos has written an excellent artricle on what he found on one Mac in a Qantas lounge. It may surprise you what you leave behind.
My advice is simple - either take your own laptop and use trusted WiFi connections, or stick to very generalised browsing only. Don't rely on these computers to connect to corporate LANs safely as to be honest, you don't know what the last person did before you logged on.
A reasonable read. Highly recommded.
http://nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2010/12/09/airport-insecurity-and-high-risk-travel/
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
CX: They want you feel... New Business Class seats.
Cathay Pacific have been busy it seems, and as well as new routes, they've launched a new Business Class Seat.
Image - Cathay Pacific, resized to fit screens better ;)
So lets do some quick checks:
It's being installed on a lot of birds:
- On all New long haul A330-300 deliveries (March 2011)
- On all new Boeing 777-300ER deliveries (April 2011)
Rollout will then continue to all Long Haul A330-300's and 777-300ER by 2013 - a total of 50 aircraft
The seat and the bed form out to some nice numbers:
Information - Cathay Pacific.
Long Haul A330's will be deployed on the Austrailan runs, and the 777-300ER's will see action to New York, Los Angeles and London.
Initial impressions are positive, and a welcome change from the Herringbone style seats that are currently used - however, the proof in this pudding is in the eating. And I bet flyers will be eating this up from March next year....
So lets do some quick checks:
It's being installed on a lot of birds:
- On all New long haul A330-300 deliveries (March 2011)
- On all new Boeing 777-300ER deliveries (April 2011)
Rollout will then continue to all Long Haul A330-300's and 777-300ER by 2013 - a total of 50 aircraft
The seat and the bed form out to some nice numbers:
Information - Cathay Pacific.Long Haul A330's will be deployed on the Austrailan runs, and the 777-300ER's will see action to New York, Los Angeles and London.
Initial impressions are positive, and a welcome change from the Herringbone style seats that are currently used - however, the proof in this pudding is in the eating. And I bet flyers will be eating this up from March next year....
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
Want to avoid APD? HINT: Start in Ireland....
The Irish Air Travel tax is being reduced - from a not considerable €10 to an insignficant €3.
You read that right.
This comes to effect from 1st March 2011 to 31st December 2011.
This is to combat the dropping visitor numbers to Ireland.
To quote Brian Lenihan
If you were planning a business class or first class redemption long distance, I would be actively looking to commence my journey from Dublin now.
Lets put it in hard numbers.
Notes: Calculation is based on an Aer Lingus single flight to Dublin which is about £25 on a discount flight. €3 is equal to about £2.70, but for the sake of my mental arithmetic, I've rounded it back up to a £3. Of course, Ryanair could probably fly you cheaper, but I'm assuming you have taste in airlines.
From these numbers, Band A (Intra European) is a waste of effort.
Going any further than Band A, and there are minor savings to be made in economy, but bucket loads of coins to be saved in Business and First in Taxes the further you go. Bear in mind Band D is Singapore and beyond.
And the further you go, the bigger the savings. Serious amounts of savings. Even with the positioning flight, and heck, a decent night in a hotel. It's still a good saving.
So when booking those flights for next year, my hint is start in Dublin's Fair City or somewhere on the Emerald Isle. As you'll be less ripped off starting there.
Orginal input, http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2010/1207/breaking60.html
APD Figures from HM Goverment and ABTA.
You read that right.
€3
This comes to effect from 1st March 2011 to 31st December 2011.
This is to combat the dropping visitor numbers to Ireland.
To quote Brian Lenihan
"The position will be reviewed next year, and the rate will be increased unless there is evidence of an appropriate response from the airlines. I do not want to see the reduction in the tax being used by airlines as an opportunity to raise their fees and charges."Now there are ways to view this be you an Odious Little Man, a minister for the Irish Parliament, but this is my way of looking at it.
If you were planning a business class or first class redemption long distance, I would be actively looking to commence my journey from Dublin now.
Lets put it in hard numbers.
| APD Band | Economy Class | Irish Fee + positioning flight (£25 + €3 - about £28) | Benefit |
| Band A | £12 | £28 | - £16 |
| Band B | £60 | £28 | £32 |
| Band C | £75 | £28 | £47 |
| Band D | £85 | £28 | £57 |
| APD Band | Business/ First Class | Irish Fee + positioning flight (£25 + €3 - about £28) | Benefit |
| Band A | £24 | £28 | - £4 |
| Band B | £120 | £28 | £92 |
| Band C | £150 | £28 | £122 |
| Band D | £170 | £28 | £142 |
Notes: Calculation is based on an Aer Lingus single flight to Dublin which is about £25 on a discount flight. €3 is equal to about £2.70, but for the sake of my mental arithmetic, I've rounded it back up to a £3. Of course, Ryanair could probably fly you cheaper, but I'm assuming you have taste in airlines.
From these numbers, Band A (Intra European) is a waste of effort.
Going any further than Band A, and there are minor savings to be made in economy, but bucket loads of coins to be saved in Business and First in Taxes the further you go. Bear in mind Band D is Singapore and beyond.
And the further you go, the bigger the savings. Serious amounts of savings. Even with the positioning flight, and heck, a decent night in a hotel. It's still a good saving.
So when booking those flights for next year, my hint is start in Dublin's Fair City or somewhere on the Emerald Isle. As you'll be less ripped off starting there.
Orginal input, http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2010/1207/breaking60.html
APD Figures from HM Goverment and ABTA.
CO: Flat Seats all done in 777's, 757-200's in progress, 767-400's to follow...
Continental have been beavering away since before and after the United merger, and have announced today that their 777 fleet is now totally "flat seat" in Business First.
Continentals Jim Compton says
The seat is also being installed currently in the 757-200 fleet and in 2011, will be installed in the 767-400's.
With flat seats being the norm in Business class, this is a good sign that Continental might be done before United's 777 refurbishment.
United have completed their 747-400 and 767-300ER refurbishment with flat seats - which are good for sleeping on - even if the service can be "distinctly average"
Continentals Jim Compton says
"These seats are highly popular with customers from all over the world, and we will begin installing them on the rest of our widebody fleet beginning next year"
The seat is also being installed currently in the 757-200 fleet and in 2011, will be installed in the 767-400's.
With flat seats being the norm in Business class, this is a good sign that Continental might be done before United's 777 refurbishment.
United have completed their 747-400 and 767-300ER refurbishment with flat seats - which are good for sleeping on - even if the service can be "distinctly average"
BD: Bonus Miles this week only!
BMI are flogging Destination Miles on the cheap this week it seems, with an offer of
"Special bonus offer - One Week Only - Receive 50% more miles
Purchase miles between 6 December and 12 December, 2010 and you will automatically receive a 50% bonus on the number of miles purchased."
You'll need to log into your Diamond Club account to take advantage of it. Note that that this new spree is upto any miles you've brought already. So if you've brought 24k of miles already this year, you won't be able to take part
However, to get 24000 miles on the cheap (or 0.8625p/mile a full 16k for £207 - with the 50% bonus taking it to 24,000) isn't a bad sum. And certainly easier than sitting in a plane
Of course to milk this, buy it on your BMI Credit card - that's anohter slug of miles there too.
Note - this is for DESTINATION MILES ONLY. NOT STATUS MILES.
"Special bonus offer - One Week Only - Receive 50% more miles
Purchase miles between 6 December and 12 December, 2010 and you will automatically receive a 50% bonus on the number of miles purchased."
You'll need to log into your Diamond Club account to take advantage of it. Note that that this new spree is upto any miles you've brought already. So if you've brought 24k of miles already this year, you won't be able to take part
However, to get 24000 miles on the cheap (or 0.8625p/mile a full 16k for £207 - with the 50% bonus taking it to 24,000) isn't a bad sum. And certainly easier than sitting in a plane
Of course to milk this, buy it on your BMI Credit card - that's anohter slug of miles there too.
Note - this is for DESTINATION MILES ONLY. NOT STATUS MILES.
Monday, 6 December 2010
The Kinsey Sicks ... on the TSA (to the tune of Touch me)
Most of us have been to Rocky Horror at some point.
And it does sometimes leave an impression. Like visiting the TSA for a free pat down.
So this is still close to the truth. As usual. So let them touch-a-touch you....
And it does sometimes leave an impression. Like visiting the TSA for a free pat down.
So this is still close to the truth. As usual. So let them touch-a-touch you....
CX: They Feel.. Chicago and more feeling of New York.
Cathay Pacific has decided to feel a new city, and are off to Chicago, whilst boosting it's New York Services, with CX announcing...
Operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, Cathay will run a daily non-stop service from Hong Kong to Chicago and back.
Commences: 01/09/2011, Times are local, accounting for International Date Line
As well as Chicago, for those who don't want to wander to the Mid-west, East Coast to Hong Kong services are being beefed up too, with the addition of a 3rd service from HKG to JFK.
This will be thrice weekly from 27 March 2011 going daily 02 May 2011, being a non stop flight with a Boeing 777-300ER
All other services - including the one-stopper via Vancouver (for those who want to remember what service is when flying in North America) will remain available.
A nice expansion. But how much Robbie Williams can you taken when on hold to them?
"We are extremely pleased to be launching passenger service to one of America’s greatest cities"There's a whole load of PR as well, but lets drill down to the details.
Operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, Cathay will run a daily non-stop service from Hong Kong to Chicago and back.
Flight Departs Arrive
CX806 HKG 11:45 ORD 13:45
CX807 ORD 15:25 HKG 20:00+1
CX807 ORD 15:25 HKG 20:00+1
Commences: 01/09/2011, Times are local, accounting for International Date Line
As well as Chicago, for those who don't want to wander to the Mid-west, East Coast to Hong Kong services are being beefed up too, with the addition of a 3rd service from HKG to JFK.
This will be thrice weekly from 27 March 2011 going daily 02 May 2011, being a non stop flight with a Boeing 777-300ER
Flight Departs Arrive
CX846 HKG 18:30 JFK 10:25
CX845 JFK 01:20 HKG 05:15+1
Operates Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays 27/03/11 to 01/05/11, then daily from 02/05/11CX845 JFK 01:20 HKG 05:15+1
All other services - including the one-stopper via Vancouver (for those who want to remember what service is when flying in North America) will remain available.
A nice expansion. But how much Robbie Williams can you taken when on hold to them?
Sunday, 5 December 2010
Airplane p0rn - Shandong Airlines 737-800
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week, it's a Shandong Airlines Boeing 737-800 at Seoul Inchon reprovisioing for it's next flight back to China
More airplane p0rn next week!
This week, it's a Shandong Airlines Boeing 737-800 at Seoul Inchon reprovisioing for it's next flight back to China
More airplane p0rn next week!
Elite Mileage.... A video to explain a few things...
This isn't me at all. Honest... Although there are elements of truth...
Thanks to SpencerHoward on YouTube.
Spanish Airstrike: Over, but delays are mounting.
The Spanish Air Traffic Controllers have now returned to work, after legal threats from the goverment.
However, the delays have stacked up, and services will be backlogged for the next few days.
Again, check with your carrier for rebooking and current operations, and remember that you are covered under Rule 261/2004. So hang onto those receipts.
And good luck getting where you need to go.
However, the delays have stacked up, and services will be backlogged for the next few days.
Again, check with your carrier for rebooking and current operations, and remember that you are covered under Rule 261/2004. So hang onto those receipts.
And good luck getting where you need to go.
Saturday, 4 December 2010
Spanish Airstrike: Continuing
No traffic is moving in and out of Spain at the moment, with traffic that would go through Spain is avoiding it, adding to delays
A few salient points:
British Airways are advising people check their website before departure
Iberia has cancelled all flights until tomorrow 05:00 Local
Ryanair has followed, with all flights to 10:00 Local.
EasyJet have cancelled services to 04/12 18:00 Local - including Portuguese and Morocco services as well
The advice is contact your carrier before departing. If you're bound for Spain, there is a very good chance you won't be flying today.
The air traffic controllers are calling in sick, and the army has been called in to operate the system - with a state of an alert declared by the Spanish Government.
Let the chaos continue.
A few salient points:
British Airways are advising people check their website before departure
Iberia has cancelled all flights until tomorrow 05:00 Local
Ryanair has followed, with all flights to 10:00 Local.
EasyJet have cancelled services to 04/12 18:00 Local - including Portuguese and Morocco services as well
The advice is contact your carrier before departing. If you're bound for Spain, there is a very good chance you won't be flying today.
The air traffic controllers are calling in sick, and the army has been called in to operate the system - with a state of an alert declared by the Spanish Government.
Let the chaos continue.
Safety Video Saturday - United Airlines 757 PS
Yes, it's that time to put that seat back to the upright position as the United PS team show you why life is different aboard one of their "Premium Service" 757's...
More next week!
More next week!
Friday, 3 December 2010
Thinking of traveling to Spain or through Spanish Airspace tommorow? Think again...
A wildcat strike has hit Spain, with air traffic controllers reporting in "sick". En mass.
Most of Spain's airspace remains closed at this time, with the controllers in a dispute with Spanish airport authority Aena over hours and conditions.
The spainish government has warned it will allow the military to take control of airspace if civilian traffic controllers do not return to work.
The move comes after several airports across Spain were shut after traffic controllers began abandoning their posts, claiming sick leave.
Madrid is hit, with Iberia cancelling all arrivals and departures. Whilst the action is expected to last until midnight, Check before you travel if you're going anywhere near Spain.
This could rumble on.
Most of Spain's airspace remains closed at this time, with the controllers in a dispute with Spanish airport authority Aena over hours and conditions.
The spainish government has warned it will allow the military to take control of airspace if civilian traffic controllers do not return to work.
The move comes after several airports across Spain were shut after traffic controllers began abandoning their posts, claiming sick leave.
Madrid is hit, with Iberia cancelling all arrivals and departures. Whilst the action is expected to last until midnight, Check before you travel if you're going anywhere near Spain.
This could rumble on.
QF: QF32 A380 Incident - Pelimiary Report Out
For those of you who like light lunchtime reading, The Australian Trasport Safety Board has released it's preliminary report of the QF32 Incident.
You can get it at: http://www.atsb.gov.au/media/2888854/ao-2010-089%20preliminary%20report.pdf
Light reading for all...
You can get it at: http://www.atsb.gov.au/media/2888854/ao-2010-089%20preliminary%20report.pdf
Light reading for all...
Thursday, 2 December 2010
And this is why we've got a few transport issues in the United Kingdom
Expect further disruption tomorrow, although news indicates that Gatwick is on Target for a 6am reopening tomorrow.
Safe travels to all.
Nude-o-scope: "Homosexual Agenda" - Supervisor Eugene Delgaudio
Ah. Technical Rags are good for laughs. Especially this one wit the quote from Supervisor Eugene Delgaudio:
Do I *really* need to say much more than that?
The full story is at http://www.wusa9.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=122925&catid=158 with The Register giving it's insightful opinion.
Welcome to comedy hour.....
"The next TSA official that gives you an 'enhanced pat down' could be a practicing homosexual secretly getting pleasure from your submission,
Do I *really* need to say much more than that?
The full story is at http://www.wusa9.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=122925&catid=158 with The Register giving it's insightful opinion.
Welcome to comedy hour.....
QF: When in doubt - sue the ass off people - Qantas launches legal action against Rolls Royce
Well if you couldn't guess it was going to happen... it has.
Qantas has launched litigation against Rolls Royce engines to recover some of the losses incured during the uncontained engine incident that forced flight QF32 back to Singapore a month ago.
In a statement Qantas said:
Expect fireworks if Rolls Royce doesn't pay up.
Operationally, Qantas are still heavely down on A380's, with 2 out of the 6 aircraft operational, the other 3 still being checked over, and 1 remaining at Singapore, damaged from the incident. Qantas is due to have another pair of A380's to be delivered soon to bolster its numbers - whilst not taking over from 747 services for now, it will allow most A380 operations to resume.
Qantas currently has two of its A380 fleet in operation.
Qantas has launched litigation against Rolls Royce engines to recover some of the losses incured during the uncontained engine incident that forced flight QF32 back to Singapore a month ago.
In a statement Qantas said:
"Qantas has commenced discussions with Rolls-Royce on a range of issues concerning the A380 fleet, including financial and operational impacts, as a consequence of the QF32 Trent 900 engine failure on 4 November 2010, and will also consider legal options.
The airline has today filed a statement of claim and been granted an injunction by the Federal Court of Australia which will ensure that the company can pursue legal action against Rolls-Royce in Australia, particularly under the Trade Practices Act, if a commercial settlement is not possible.
Today's action allows Qantas to keep all options available to the company to recover losses, as a result of the grounding of the A380 fleet and the operational constraints currently imposed on A380 services."
Expect fireworks if Rolls Royce doesn't pay up.
Operationally, Qantas are still heavely down on A380's, with 2 out of the 6 aircraft operational, the other 3 still being checked over, and 1 remaining at Singapore, damaged from the incident. Qantas is due to have another pair of A380's to be delivered soon to bolster its numbers - whilst not taking over from 747 services for now, it will allow most A380 operations to resume.
Qantas currently has two of its A380 fleet in operation.
Snow Distruption continues - Gatwick Shut, other UK routes affected
As the cold snap tightens it's grip on the UK, travel chaos is beginning. In particular, Gatwick Airport is now closed until at least 06:00 on the 3rd December. Edinburgh and Jersey Airports are also closed, with random closings happening everywhere.
Heathrow is open, however delays are stacking slowly.
Elsewhere there are cancellations are happening, with train services operated by Southern suspended, South Eastern running an emergency timetable, Eurostar running half timetable
The advice is to contact your operator or airline to see what is going on. Alas, this is going to impact badly as the weather worsens.
Heathrow is open, however delays are stacking slowly.
Elsewhere there are cancellations are happening, with train services operated by Southern suspended, South Eastern running an emergency timetable, Eurostar running half timetable
The advice is to contact your operator or airline to see what is going on. Alas, this is going to impact badly as the weather worsens.
Wednesday, 1 December 2010
Groupon Deal: £5 for a £45 Expedia voucher.
For those of you who use Groupon or are new to group buying, a little deal has tipped up today, with a £5 investment for £45 off Expedia hotels.
Whilst this is good, read the terms and conditions. Basically - not redeemable at chain hotels and requires a £280 minimum spend.
Head to Groupon and take advantage if you can.
Small print:
Disclaimer: Yes, it's a referral link.. and it refers back to me. I've got try must I? ;)
Whilst this is good, read the terms and conditions. Basically - not redeemable at chain hotels and requires a £280 minimum spend.
Head to Groupon and take advantage if you can.
Small print:
- 1 voucher per person, may buy multiple as gifts
- Voucher valid until 30th April 2011, 24 hours a day excluding 1st January to 18th February 2011
- Voucher activates on Friday 3rd December at 2pm, valid for one booking
- Go to Expedia.co.uk/groupon to make your booking, have voucher and security codes ready
- Voucher valid for Hotel bookings only, minimum spend of £280
- Voucher cannot be redeemed against Hotel bookings for Harrah's, MGM, Starwood, Novotel, Sol Melia, Rezidor, Hilton Hotels, InterContinental, Accor, Sofitel, Mercure, Ibis, Pullman, MGallery, Suitehotel, All Seasons, Orbis or Marriot Hotels
- Voucher cannot be used for previously made bookings and cannot be re-used, even in the event of changes or cancellations
- Voucher entitles you to £45 off the price of a Hotel reservation before the application of any tax, applicable fees or additional costs
- UK residents and over 18s only
- Usual terms and condition apply at www.expedia.co.uk/daily/ voucher/groupon.aspx , all booking subject to availability
- Not valid with other offers
Disclaimer: Yes, it's a referral link.. and it refers back to me. I've got try must I? ;)
AF: Another day, another A380 depolyment
It seems that Air France is still enjoying life with it's Engine Alliance powered A380's, and have announced the next destination they will server - Paris CDG to Washington Dulles.
This will consiolidate two departures into one, operating as
Route commences: 06/06/2011.
Codeshares available via Alitalia, Delta, and KLM and operated with the Joint Venture that the SkyTeam carriers have between them
Air France operates it's A380 fleet out to Johannesburg, Montreal, New York, and Tokyo as well.
Well the economics of the A380 are starting to come into play - by rationaling costs and deploying one aircraft instead of two. The only people who might loose out are the travellers who now are forced to use one departure only, or switch to another airline (with United operating to CDG, Openskies operating to ORY)
This will consiolidate two departures into one, operating as
FLIGHT FROM TO DEPART ARRIVE
AF028 CDG IAD 10:40 13:00
AF039 IAD CDG 16:25 05:45+1
Route commences: 06/06/2011.
Codeshares available via Alitalia, Delta, and KLM and operated with the Joint Venture that the SkyTeam carriers have between them
Air France operates it's A380 fleet out to Johannesburg, Montreal, New York, and Tokyo as well.
Well the economics of the A380 are starting to come into play - by rationaling costs and deploying one aircraft instead of two. The only people who might loose out are the travellers who now are forced to use one departure only, or switch to another airline (with United operating to CDG, Openskies operating to ORY)
Snow update: Expect problems.
The UK has now has had a few snowstorms, and it's getting worse everywhere.
Check the airports and carriers to see if they're operating the service before you depart and allow extra time for your journeys.
You can find a list of UK & Ireland Airports here with Twitter links where appropriate.
Safe Travels!
Check the airports and carriers to see if they're operating the service before you depart and allow extra time for your journeys.
You can find a list of UK & Ireland Airports here with Twitter links where appropriate.
Safe Travels!
Greetings from the lab..
Welcome to a new section of GhettoIFE.com - The Laboratory!
As the lab is semi-hush-hush, it gives me a chance to play with new ideas before releasing them to the unsuspecting world.
First up is a PhotoSynth...
Thoughts welcome.. if you can find this page ;)
As the lab is semi-hush-hush, it gives me a chance to play with new ideas before releasing them to the unsuspecting world.
First up is a PhotoSynth...
Thoughts welcome.. if you can find this page ;)
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
5W: Iceland Express to go Ghetto, and offer iPads as IFE
Ah. This iPad as an IFE (in-flight entertainment) device.
Jetstar is inching closer, and today, abudget carrier Iceland Express (unsurprisingly, based out of Iceland), is planning to offer them on their London Gatwick to Newark Airport via Reykjavik.
Although if you want an iPad and you're not on first, there could be fun as there will be 25 units assigned per flight. Which isn't that many consider how many seats a 737-700 can hold.
Rentals will cost £9 a flight, with the iPad lasting 10 hours, the flight in total lasting 11. Which whichever way you cut it is a long time.
It'll be interesting to see how the content is locked down, and what deals are signed for the IFE.
Still - an innovative use - by the traditional problem will remain how to mount the thing....
Jetstar is inching closer, and today, abudget carrier Iceland Express (unsurprisingly, based out of Iceland), is planning to offer them on their London Gatwick to Newark Airport via Reykjavik.
Although if you want an iPad and you're not on first, there could be fun as there will be 25 units assigned per flight. Which isn't that many consider how many seats a 737-700 can hold.
Rentals will cost £9 a flight, with the iPad lasting 10 hours, the flight in total lasting 11. Which whichever way you cut it is a long time.
It'll be interesting to see how the content is locked down, and what deals are signed for the IFE.
Still - an innovative use - by the traditional problem will remain how to mount the thing....
LH: Lufthansa shows it cares... by devaulating your miles
Miles are a flexible currency, and like any currency, the value of them tends to go down as well as down.
And in the case of Lufthansa Group flyers you'll learn about miles depreciating, with Miles and More suffering a 20% devaluation from next year.
Affected Airlines: Adria, Air Dolomiti, Austrian, Croatia Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa (and affiliated airlines), LOT, LuxAir and Swiss.
Here are the hard numbers: read them and weep. (With thanks to rcs85551 at http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/miles-more-lufthansa-austrian-swiss-other-partners/1154001-new-m-m-award-chart-01-01-2011-c-f-rumour-confirmed.html)
Europe – North America (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 90.000 / 140.000, Now 105.000 / 170.000
Europe – S America (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 120.000 / 180.000, Now 135.000 / 210.000
Europe – S. Africa (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 90.000 / 140.000, Now 105.000 / 170.000
Europe – SEA or Far East (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 120.000 / 180.000, Now 135.000 / 210.000
3-Region-Award (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 160.000 / 240.000, Now 185.000 / 290.000
Round-The-World-Award (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 280.000 / 400.000, Now 325.000 / 480.000
Other Changes inculde:
There's also a full breakdown of the image (again from the Flyertalk thread and http://www.vielfliegertreff.de/blogs/rcs/21-aenderungen-bei-miles-more-bessere-bedingungen-teurere-praemienfluege-insbesondere-first.html)
My advice: Whilst I'm not an avid collector of Lufthansa Miles, this is one hell of a devaluation, and should serve as a warning to BMI Diamond Club members who will eventually merge into Miles and More.
The simple advice I'm going to give is this:
And in the case of Lufthansa Group flyers you'll learn about miles depreciating, with Miles and More suffering a 20% devaluation from next year.
Affected Airlines: Adria, Air Dolomiti, Austrian, Croatia Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa (and affiliated airlines), LOT, LuxAir and Swiss.
Here are the hard numbers: read them and weep. (With thanks to rcs85551 at http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/miles-more-lufthansa-austrian-swiss-other-partners/1154001-new-m-m-award-chart-01-01-2011-c-f-rumour-confirmed.html)
Europe – North America (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 90.000 / 140.000, Now 105.000 / 170.000
Europe – S America (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 120.000 / 180.000, Now 135.000 / 210.000
Europe – S. Africa (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 90.000 / 140.000, Now 105.000 / 170.000
Europe – SEA or Far East (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 120.000 / 180.000, Now 135.000 / 210.000
3-Region-Award (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 160.000 / 240.000, Now 185.000 / 290.000
Round-The-World-Award (Business Class / First Class):
Previously 280.000 / 400.000, Now 325.000 / 480.000
Other Changes inculde:
- two stopovers allowed per award
- one way awards are now 50% and no longer 75%
- same day award 'penalty' of 10k has been removed
There's also a full breakdown of the image (again from the Flyertalk thread and http://www.vielfliegertreff.de/blogs/rcs/21-aenderungen-bei-miles-more-bessere-bedingungen-teurere-praemienfluege-insbesondere-first.html)
My advice: Whilst I'm not an avid collector of Lufthansa Miles, this is one hell of a devaluation, and should serve as a warning to BMI Diamond Club members who will eventually merge into Miles and More.
The simple advice I'm going to give is this:
- If you want to redeem at the old rates, spend now.
- Diamond Club members, unless you want a really bad devaluation, spend now.
- Those who are considering status for 2011-2012, unless you can take advantage of a 30 Sector to Silver on the cheap or are flying business anyway, I'd seriously reconsider your strategy.
Monday, 29 November 2010
Unite Vs BA: Here we go again - Ballot to Strike
Well I haven't had the deep joy about writing about this for months as it's been bubbling away. But Unite has decided to call for strike action against BA again.
This time, it's over travel perks, and reinstatement of those perks for members who striked who had had them revoked.
Unite's mouthpeace Tony Woodley quotes that the decision that BA took was "needless and vindictive", whilst his Unite staff have been "victimised and harassed" by BA.
Balloting will commence in 7 days time with up to 11,000 voting. Should a majority vote for a strike (not the total membership - just the ones who vote), then new industrial action could take place in the New Year. Thankfully for those travelling over the Christmas/New Year period, it's too soon to call a strike.
The balloting process will begin in seven days' time. If a majority of the 11,000 members vote for industrial action, this could begin in the New Year.
Whilst this is one of the four issues outstanding, it's the one that Tony Woodley and Unite are pushing at. The rest have not been disclosed, but it does get rather long in the tooth.
The big question remains - do the staff have it in for another long fight, or are they prepared to compromise?
Or will the Union mouthpiece continue to make noises whilst the world changes around them with their head stuck in the sand?
This time, it's over travel perks, and reinstatement of those perks for members who striked who had had them revoked.
Unite's mouthpeace Tony Woodley quotes that the decision that BA took was "needless and vindictive", whilst his Unite staff have been "victimised and harassed" by BA.
Balloting will commence in 7 days time with up to 11,000 voting. Should a majority vote for a strike (not the total membership - just the ones who vote), then new industrial action could take place in the New Year. Thankfully for those travelling over the Christmas/New Year period, it's too soon to call a strike.
The balloting process will begin in seven days' time. If a majority of the 11,000 members vote for industrial action, this could begin in the New Year.
Whilst this is one of the four issues outstanding, it's the one that Tony Woodley and Unite are pushing at. The rest have not been disclosed, but it does get rather long in the tooth.
The big question remains - do the staff have it in for another long fight, or are they prepared to compromise?
Or will the Union mouthpiece continue to make noises whilst the world changes around them with their head stuck in the sand?
BD: Get's annoyed with BAA and Heahtrow over access charges... and small planes.
BMI is as we know a funny olde airline. It'll run ERJ-145's for the fun of it into it's main hubs whilst sending off A320's to do charter work.
As regular readers know we know their revenue management also has a weird effect helping putting those small planes on trunk routes.
Well BAA at Heathrow is sort of getting annoyed at the Domestic traffic, with them increasing the passenger service fee to the same price as the international fee (the fee you pay to travel through London Heathrow from from £13.43 to £20.25).
To the point where BMI has asked the Civil Aviation Authority to review the changes and filed a compliant.
BMI Chief Exec, Wolfgang Prock Schauer has gone on the offensive saying:
Alas, these charges aren't good, least of all they'll divert traffic away from UK domestic, turning it Heathrow into an "International hub only" , and most of all if you think BMI will food the bill for this, you're dreaming - it'll be the passenger.
Alas, BMI is on a loosing front as it cut backs it's Domestic services and putting on smaller planes. There appears to be some change in the strategy recently with larger Airbus's taking over from ERJ's. But if BMI can't fill an ERJ thanks to the Low-Cost Competition eating from below (in the form of EasyJet and Ryanair) and higher quality airlines (such as Aer Lingus from Ireland) eating from the top, what hope is there for BMI to fill an Airbus A319 - let alone anything larger?
Again, this is where runway 3 would had helped. Alas, that isn't going to become a reality for at least the next 4 years,so BMI has to do something to get custom up. A few suggestions include:
Of course, this is BMI. With all the advantages it has (Their lounges and the relative peace of Terminal 1), they have to learn and take advantage of what they have.
Or else the competition will eat them alive.
As regular readers know we know their revenue management also has a weird effect helping putting those small planes on trunk routes.
Well BAA at Heathrow is sort of getting annoyed at the Domestic traffic, with them increasing the passenger service fee to the same price as the international fee (the fee you pay to travel through London Heathrow from from £13.43 to £20.25).
To the point where BMI has asked the Civil Aviation Authority to review the changes and filed a compliant.
BMI Chief Exec, Wolfgang Prock Schauer has gone on the offensive saying:
"It is clear that BAA is unfairly penalising domestic passengers at Heathrow and discriminating against airlines flying between Heathrow and Scotland and Northern Ireland.
BAA is favouring long-haul airlines and neglecting the needs of local, UK airlines serving the domestic and Northern Ireland markets.
BAA’s plans will cause huge inconvenience and higher costs for travellers and so we have written to the CAA to make it clear that we will be seeking legal remedies under the Airports Act 1986. Without doubt, these planned higher charges by BAA would damage the economic links between Heathrow and key regions across the UK.
bmi has written to the political decision makers in Scotland and in Northern Ireland to outline the damage that BAA’s higher charges would do to the economy. We are receiving enormous support from Scotland and Northern Ireland on a political level and from the business community."
Alas, these charges aren't good, least of all they'll divert traffic away from UK domestic, turning it Heathrow into an "International hub only" , and most of all if you think BMI will food the bill for this, you're dreaming - it'll be the passenger.
Alas, BMI is on a loosing front as it cut backs it's Domestic services and putting on smaller planes. There appears to be some change in the strategy recently with larger Airbus's taking over from ERJ's. But if BMI can't fill an ERJ thanks to the Low-Cost Competition eating from below (in the form of EasyJet and Ryanair) and higher quality airlines (such as Aer Lingus from Ireland) eating from the top, what hope is there for BMI to fill an Airbus A319 - let alone anything larger?
Again, this is where runway 3 would had helped. Alas, that isn't going to become a reality for at least the next 4 years,so BMI has to do something to get custom up. A few suggestions include:
- Running services that actually connect with long haul services
- Getting some of the codeshares back with other airlines
- Sorting out the pricing so it doesn't look like someone in accounting has priced people off the plane
- Running a decent and logical frequency for some services
Of course, this is BMI. With all the advantages it has (Their lounges and the relative peace of Terminal 1), they have to learn and take advantage of what they have.
Or else the competition will eat them alive.
Surely you cannot be serious? I am serious - and don't call me Shirly - Leslie Nelison passes away
A sad loss in the world of entertainment, and one who allowed many a frequent flyer to laugh out loud in "Airplane", Leslie Neilson has passed away yesterday at the age of 84.
A serious actor at first, he found his comic timing, and it delivered in Airplane! followed by Police Squad and the Naked Gun Series.
A very sad loss indeed - but his humour will live on in the films.
Unsurprisingly however, airlines didn't take to having Airplane! on their In-Flight Entertainment. A shame.... because sometimes you do need a bit of fun in the air.
So don't take the fish, make it a bad day to give up drinking, and head to http://www.awesomefilm.com/script/airplane.txt for a lunchtime chuckle.
A serious actor at first, he found his comic timing, and it delivered in Airplane! followed by Police Squad and the Naked Gun Series.
A very sad loss indeed - but his humour will live on in the films.
Unsurprisingly however, airlines didn't take to having Airplane! on their In-Flight Entertainment. A shame.... because sometimes you do need a bit of fun in the air.
So don't take the fish, make it a bad day to give up drinking, and head to http://www.awesomefilm.com/script/airplane.txt for a lunchtime chuckle.
Sunday, 28 November 2010
Airplane p0rn - Delta 757 & CRJ-200
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some airplane p0rn.
This week, it's a Delta 757 lined up on the runway at Los Angeles, with a CRJ-200 sneaking into shot as it'll be next to take off - whilst I'm lining up for landing in a United A320.
More next week!
This week, it's a Delta 757 lined up on the runway at Los Angeles, with a CRJ-200 sneaking into shot as it'll be next to take off - whilst I'm lining up for landing in a United A320.
More next week!
Saturday, 27 November 2010
Safety Video Saturday - Krasiair IL-96
Well as you prepare to put your seat into the upright position, here's something a bit more unusual this week, with Krasair (Krasnoyarsk Airlines)'s safety demonstration for an Ilyushin Il-96-300
More next week!
More next week!
UK - A dusting of Snow - Except Delays
For those of you travelling from the regions, expect delays as snow has fallen and is starting to cause minor to major delays
Check your airline, and double check your airport - you can find a list of UK airports at GhettoIFE.com, and visit their depature/arrival boards.
Good luck!
Check your airline, and double check your airport - you can find a list of UK airports at GhettoIFE.com, and visit their depature/arrival boards.
Good luck!
TSA Bumper Stickers - in full
Me? TSA (Transportation Security Administration) Bashing? Could be - dread the thought some of them are competent, but alas - I seem to get the ones who are 1) deaf or 2) don't understand the meaning of "Manually Scan my Film".
And I'm looking forward to the day I'm selected for a Millimetre Wave Scan - as we all know, these scan are X-Ray based, and X-Rays's are a cumulative effect - not a gradual fade.
So instead here are some bumper stickers from Flyertalk. Make of them and print them as you feel ;)
And closer to the truth than the Transport Security Administration would care to admit....
Credit: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travel-safety-security/1150875-new-tsa-bumper-stickers.html
And I'm looking forward to the day I'm selected for a Millimetre Wave Scan - as we all know, these scan are X-Ray based, and X-Rays's are a cumulative effect - not a gradual fade.
So instead here are some bumper stickers from Flyertalk. Make of them and print them as you feel ;)
And closer to the truth than the Transport Security Administration would care to admit....
Credit: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travel-safety-security/1150875-new-tsa-bumper-stickers.html
Friday, 26 November 2010
OS: Releases new seat. And it's a vision of hell.
Some people like them, but I'm not a fan.
Austrian Airlines (as well as Lufthansa and BMI) show off their new Europe Seat.
And oh dear. How thin does this look?
And spin forward to 50 seconds or so, and you'll see this
Image - Austrian Airlines, grabbed from Video.
Oh dear. Silm seats, zilch padding, and it does look... ermm. Yes well.
Can anyone say uncomfortable?
Austrian Airlines (as well as Lufthansa and BMI) show off their new Europe Seat.
And oh dear. How thin does this look?
And spin forward to 50 seconds or so, and you'll see this
Oh dear. Silm seats, zilch padding, and it does look... ermm. Yes well.
Can anyone say uncomfortable?
Thursday, 25 November 2010
787 - Further delayed
As you may have read elsewhere, Boeing has had a few more problems with their 787 fleet, and having to ground the entire test fleet due to an onboard fire aboard a plane during test
The findings are out - and it's not good news with Boeing have to develop “minor design changes” and updates to power distribution panels and system software.
Tests have been carried out in the labs, and are moving towards fixes on the ground, whilst it revises the planes to re-deploy the 787 test fleet into action. This will require FAA approval before they can take to the air again.
So yes, the 787 programme is grounded, and delayed again. Boeing state that “a revised 787 programme schedule is expected to be finalized in the next few weeks”.
Which is going to annoy ANA as they are first to fly the aircraft. However, Qatar are now reported to be annoyed, and Qatar airlines's CEO going so far to say
Ouch.
Considering the popularity of this frame, those are very harsh words indeed. Harsh words that has 60 aircraft in the balance (both in firm and options)
Can Airbus avoid a messup with the A350 frame now? I think not alas. The 787 is having a very troubled birth alas......
The findings are out - and it's not good news with Boeing have to develop “minor design changes” and updates to power distribution panels and system software.
Tests have been carried out in the labs, and are moving towards fixes on the ground, whilst it revises the planes to re-deploy the 787 test fleet into action. This will require FAA approval before they can take to the air again.
So yes, the 787 programme is grounded, and delayed again. Boeing state that “a revised 787 programme schedule is expected to be finalized in the next few weeks”.
Which is going to annoy ANA as they are first to fly the aircraft. However, Qatar are now reported to be annoyed, and Qatar airlines's CEO going so far to say
"I was really taken aback by the (787) programme. I never expected a programme could be delayed so much with a company like Boeing, which has pride in its quality. They have very clearly failed,"
Ouch.
Considering the popularity of this frame, those are very harsh words indeed. Harsh words that has 60 aircraft in the balance (both in firm and options)
Can Airbus avoid a messup with the A350 frame now? I think not alas. The 787 is having a very troubled birth alas......
Wednesday, 24 November 2010
Nude-O-Scopes, Security Theatre and ... Porn Stars...
A blogger has had some intresting times blowing apart the fun that is the TSA at Seattle-Tacoma Airport.
Visit http://www.feminisnt.com/2010/my-experience-mocking-tsa-security-theater-at-seatac-as-a-nearly-naked-enfant-terrible/ (NSWF!!!!!)
Yes, it's not safe for work. And another example of security theatre. But she has some classic lines...
Oh yes, she logs 30K a year. In Miles.
I'll let you watch in the comfort of your own home and your own opinions, but yes - Security Theatre - at it's best.
NSFW = Not Safe For Work. You have been warned!!!!!
Visit http://www.feminisnt.com/2010/my-experience-mocking-tsa-security-theater-at-seatac-as-a-nearly-naked-enfant-terrible/ (NSWF!!!!!)
Yes, it's not safe for work. And another example of security theatre. But she has some classic lines...
The TSA wanted to feel me up or see what I look like without clothes. I get it. I'm a sex worker. My main porn site gets about 3 million unique visitors a year, and clients pay $4 a minute to see me naked on my web cam, so the TSA's interest in me came as no surprise. Normally, I would charge for such a service, but this one was on the house. Duty, country, sacrifice, patriotism, all that
Furry Girl/Feminisnt.com (NSFW!!!!)Well anything for a freebie in TSA land I guess. Heck. This is the agency that has Pizza consumers as part of it's recruitment demographic.
Oh yes, she logs 30K a year. In Miles.
I'll let you watch in the comfort of your own home and your own opinions, but yes - Security Theatre - at it's best.
NSFW = Not Safe For Work. You have been warned!!!!!
QF: A380 Statement of Re-entry into service
The following is a bulk email sent to all Qantas Frequent Flyer Members - reproduced with just the text.
GhettoIFE.com will continue to monitor as Qantas continues to bring it's A380 back online and into service.
I am pleased to advise that Qantas will resume A380 services, commencing with an initial A380 service to London via Singapore on Saturday 27 November.
We have undertaken a rigorous inspection program in conjunction with Rolls Royce and Airbus to ensure the fleet is ready to return to service.
We always put safety first, and we continue to take a conservative approach to the reintroduction of the A380 fleet. So we will initially operate the A380 between Australia and the United Kingdom. As more A380s come into service, we will assess when and how best to deploy them.
I want to assure you that we have full confidence in our A380 aircraft fleet, and will not fly any individual aircraft unless we are completely sure that it is safe to do so.
Qantas has six A380s in its fleet, and is scheduled to take delivery of two new A380s before the end of this year, and a further two next year. With our fleet of more than 250 aircraft, we are able to maintain a full international and domestic network, so you can book and fly with us with confidence.
I want to thank you for your loyalty and patience. On behalf of all of us at Qantas we deeply regret any inconvenience. We look forward to welcoming you warmly when next you fly.
ALAN JOYCE
Qantas Chief Executive Officer
GhettoIFE.com will continue to monitor as Qantas continues to bring it's A380 back online and into service.
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
QF: A380's to slowly re-enter service
Well it's taken long enough, but Qantas has annoucned that it's slowly completing it's safetey checks and are planing for their A380 aircraft to reenter service.
Services will commence on the 27th November - over 3 weeks since the engine on QF32 decided to uncontain itself and had to return to Singapore, grounding the fleet.
Qantas will be restricting the use of the fleet as aircraft come back into service into what it calls "routes that requires the use of maximum engine thrust" - on their own orders, not those of Airbus or Rolls Royce.
To quote
Qantas are currently down to 5 A380's currently (the 6th being the unit stuck at Singapore), however an additional 2 aircraft are expected towards the end of the year. How these are deployed will be the important question - or if the engines will be donated to other aircraft to keep the rest of the fleet going.
Qantas's approach to safety has be visually applauded, but there have been a series of gaffs over the past weeks (with another contained engine failure, and a failure of a service from EZE where it had to turn back).
Hopefully, this will mark the end of this chapter, and we'll hear more positive A380 news.
Services will commence on the 27th November - over 3 weeks since the engine on QF32 decided to uncontain itself and had to return to Singapore, grounding the fleet.
Qantas will be restricting the use of the fleet as aircraft come back into service into what it calls "routes that requires the use of maximum engine thrust" - on their own orders, not those of Airbus or Rolls Royce.
To quote
"The decision to restore A380 services follows an intensive Trent 900 engine inspection programme carried out in close consultation with Rolls-Royce and Airbus. Together with the engine and aircraft manufacturers and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), Qantas is now satisfied that it can begin reintroducing A380s to its international network progressively,"
"In line with its conservative approach to operational safety, Qantas is voluntarily suspending A380 services on routes that regularly require use of maximum certified engine thrust and will do so until further operational experience is gained, or possible additional changes are made to engines. This is an operational decision by Qantas and pilots still have access to maximum certified thrust if they require it during flight. It is not a manufacturer's directive," says the airline.Expect slow filtering of aircraft and short substitutions. QF31 will be the first, operating from Sydney to London via Singapore. This will be "the" A380 as Qantas decides how best to deploy them, and where to deploy them
Qantas are currently down to 5 A380's currently (the 6th being the unit stuck at Singapore), however an additional 2 aircraft are expected towards the end of the year. How these are deployed will be the important question - or if the engines will be donated to other aircraft to keep the rest of the fleet going.
Qantas's approach to safety has be visually applauded, but there have been a series of gaffs over the past weeks (with another contained engine failure, and a failure of a service from EZE where it had to turn back).
Hopefully, this will mark the end of this chapter, and we'll hear more positive A380 news.
GA: SkyTeam signs another premier airline - Gaurdia Indonesia
Well SkyTeam is continuing apace with it's "quality" signings, with negoitation in place with Gaurdia Indonesia for it to join the alliace during the next year to 18 months.
SkyTeam has been expanding recently, with Vietnam Airlines onboard this year, and China Airlines of Taiwan joinign too.
The joining is these memembers SkyTeam will hope meet demands of customers. Other members in Asia include Korean Air and China Southern.
This will add another 30 destinations to the SkyTeam map, but you can't help by feeling apart from the very core of SkyTeam (Delta and AirFrance-KLM) there seems to be an alliance of "not great quality" airlines....
SkyTeam has been expanding recently, with Vietnam Airlines onboard this year, and China Airlines of Taiwan joinign too.
The joining is these memembers SkyTeam will hope meet demands of customers. Other members in Asia include Korean Air and China Southern.
This will add another 30 destinations to the SkyTeam map, but you can't help by feeling apart from the very core of SkyTeam (Delta and AirFrance-KLM) there seems to be an alliance of "not great quality" airlines....
Monday, 22 November 2010
BD: Business Traveller Mazagine interviews Herr Prock-Schauer
For those of you in Diamond Club land wanting to see what the future hold, head to http://www.businesstraveller.com/news/bmi-update where their team has been interviewing Wolfgang Prock-Schauer about some of the changes coming to BMI.
I'll be publishing my analysis a bit later on this evening - but there are little titbits of information for those who are worried about the migration to Miles and More.
I'll be publishing my analysis a bit later on this evening - but there are little titbits of information for those who are worried about the migration to Miles and More.
D7: Heading off to Paris
It's confirmed that Air Asia X will serve Paris Orly to Kuala Lumpur Low Cost International Airport
The service will commence on the 14th February 2011, with fare from November 22 (inculding a launch fare with taxes by the bucket load)
Scheduldes are loaded
Winter to Kuala Lumpur
Flights will operate from Paris Olry to KLIA LCC Terminal, with a Airbus A340 aircraft. There are variances in the timetable for the summer periods, so keep a close eye out.
If the service goes full time (7 days a week), there could be a price to pay elsewhere in the Air Asia X network. Considering how "happy" they are with the British due to taxation and other fun, for Orly to go 7 days a week, STN<>KUL could suffer....
The service will commence on the 14th February 2011, with fare from November 22 (inculding a launch fare with taxes by the bucket load)
Scheduldes are loaded
Winter to Kuala Lumpur
Day Flight No Depart ORY Arrive KUL
Monday D72015 17:10 12:50
Wednesday D72013 10:00 05:40
Thursday D72015 17:10 12:50
Sunday D72013 10:00 05:40
Winter to Paris Orly
Day Flight No Depart KUL Arrive ORY
Monday D72014 09:00 15:40
Wednesday D72012 01:05 07:45
Thursday D72014 09:00 15:40
Sunday D72012 01:05 07:45
Flights will operate from Paris Olry to KLIA LCC Terminal, with a Airbus A340 aircraft. There are variances in the timetable for the summer periods, so keep a close eye out.
If the service goes full time (7 days a week), there could be a price to pay elsewhere in the Air Asia X network. Considering how "happy" they are with the British due to taxation and other fun, for Orly to go 7 days a week, STN<>KUL could suffer....
Saturday Night Live on the TSA....
With thanks to Lucky, Saturday Night Live take a close look of what can happen if you refuse to go through the Nude-O-Scope/Millimetre Wave Scanner this Thanksgiving weekend
Alas and sadly, very close to the truth...
Alas and sadly, very close to the truth...
Sunday, 21 November 2010
Airplane p0rn - Singapore Airlines 777-300ER
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some more Airplane p0rn.
This week, it's a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER preparing for the long scretch to Hong Kong and Singapore.
More of course, next week!
This week, it's a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER preparing for the long scretch to Hong Kong and Singapore.
More of course, next week!
Saturday, 20 November 2010
Safety Video Saturday - JAL
Time to put that seat of yours in the upright position and put your tray tables away as JAL present their safety video.
More next week!
More next week!
Friday, 19 November 2010
BD: Wha? You actually *fly* BMI? 10% off sound any good?
This in from Business Traveller, and it's another 10% off flying BMI.
Your magic code is: 10BMIFLIGHTSPECIAL
You need to have made your booking before midnight November 25, with your travel completed between January 1-31, 2011.
Valid only on BMI metal flights (ie, Flown by BMI for BMI, not Codeshares, Wet leased services or BMI Baby)
And of course, it's valid on the BASE FARE only (excludes Tax/Fees element). And considering how much some BMI airfares actually are (In some cases, a few pounds), this isn't great.
But better than a kick in the teeth....
Your magic code is: 10BMIFLIGHTSPECIAL
You need to have made your booking before midnight November 25, with your travel completed between January 1-31, 2011.
Valid only on BMI metal flights (ie, Flown by BMI for BMI, not Codeshares, Wet leased services or BMI Baby)
And of course, it's valid on the BASE FARE only (excludes Tax/Fees element). And considering how much some BMI airfares actually are (In some cases, a few pounds), this isn't great.
But better than a kick in the teeth....
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Durham Tee Valley Airport adds additional Passenger surcharge, Free Screw with every payment*
Durham Tees Valley Airport has started charging passengers more to use its terminal.
From Monday 8th October, every departing passenger has to pay a "Passenger Facility Fee". This is £6 for an adult, and £2 for children aged 3 to 15
Alas, this passenger facility fee isn't built into the ticket price. So yes, it's ANOTHER £6 a time if you want to depart from the airport.
So why not bundle the fee in? Simple - they want to keep the airlines there. If the airport fees raise, airlines will go away. Durham is vulnerable from above and below with Newcastle, Leeds or Manchester all within spitting distance of Durham Airport.
Durham airport Chief executive, Craig Richmond bleets the following excuse
Actually, no I don't. Either make the fees transparent and paid for in advanced, or give up. The way this is being done is akin to paying TWICE for the same privelage of flying from that airport.
Passenger Facility fees are also in use at Blackpool, Newquay and Norwich.
Durham Tees Valley Airport has released an FAQ. Which as is as interesting as watching paint dry.
Actually, paint drying is more interesting.
The other problem Durham has is the lack of operators who use it on a schedude basis. BMI used to send planeloads of up to 150 passengers a plane until BMI Revenue management managed to screw that up sufficiently and kill the route off by downsizing it from A320's to ERJ-145's.
Today, the most regular users are KLM and Eastern Airways, with Monarch Airlines, Thomson Airways, Onur Air running seasonal charters, and Aer Arann, Ryanair and Flybe running sometimes seasonal services.
Considering most of these are run with small aircraft by the schedule users, and varying aircraft by others, it's not an extensively used field.
So I'm sorry you're loosing money Durham Tees Valley Airport. Is it my problem that you're extending the charge? No. Is it my problem that you haven't planned for the future? No.
Is it my intention to even consider using you? What do you think the answer to that is?
From Monday 8th October, every departing passenger has to pay a "Passenger Facility Fee". This is £6 for an adult, and £2 for children aged 3 to 15
Alas, this passenger facility fee isn't built into the ticket price. So yes, it's ANOTHER £6 a time if you want to depart from the airport.
So why not bundle the fee in? Simple - they want to keep the airlines there. If the airport fees raise, airlines will go away. Durham is vulnerable from above and below with Newcastle, Leeds or Manchester all within spitting distance of Durham Airport.
Durham airport Chief executive, Craig Richmond bleets the following excuse
"It’s a tough time when you see your passengers drop off between 30 and 40 per cent. I hope our customers will recognise that it is something we have to do."
Actually, no I don't. Either make the fees transparent and paid for in advanced, or give up. The way this is being done is akin to paying TWICE for the same privelage of flying from that airport.
Passenger Facility fees are also in use at Blackpool, Newquay and Norwich.
Durham Tees Valley Airport has released an FAQ. Which as is as interesting as watching paint dry.
Actually, paint drying is more interesting.
The other problem Durham has is the lack of operators who use it on a schedude basis. BMI used to send planeloads of up to 150 passengers a plane until BMI Revenue management managed to screw that up sufficiently and kill the route off by downsizing it from A320's to ERJ-145's.
Today, the most regular users are KLM and Eastern Airways, with Monarch Airlines, Thomson Airways, Onur Air running seasonal charters, and Aer Arann, Ryanair and Flybe running sometimes seasonal services.
Considering most of these are run with small aircraft by the schedule users, and varying aircraft by others, it's not an extensively used field.
So I'm sorry you're loosing money Durham Tees Valley Airport. Is it my problem that you're extending the charge? No. Is it my problem that you haven't planned for the future? No.
Is it my intention to even consider using you? What do you think the answer to that is?
JQ: Jetstar to GhettoIFE Lovers - You're still going to have to make your own for a bit.... (iPad IFE Delayed)
For those of you who make GhettoIFE units with iPods, iPhones and iPads on Jetstar, and were hoping to use their iPad IFE unit, a bit of bad news as they're delayed for a bit.
Originally due for roll-out towards the end of this year, something has fouled up on the way - with contract negotiations with Apple and Media Companies proving to be the sticky point.
JetStar will be rolling out the devices next year - but why wait when you can create your own IFE system with your iPod/iPhone? Click here to read my intro to GhettoIFE.
Originally due for roll-out towards the end of this year, something has fouled up on the way - with contract negotiations with Apple and Media Companies proving to be the sticky point.
JetStar will be rolling out the devices next year - but why wait when you can create your own IFE system with your iPod/iPhone? Click here to read my intro to GhettoIFE.
Rolls Royce A380's: Oh Dear....
Bad news for Rolls Royce Powered A380's with the news today that more engine swaps will be required.
Qantas estimates that up to 40 engines will be required for swaps throughout the global A380 RR Powered fleet.
Alan Joyce, CEO of Qantas quotes:
Trent 900's are used on A380s operated by Lufthansa, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines, which in total operate 20 aircraft, each with 4 big Trent 900 engines installed in them.
This is going to cause major issues as Lufthansa has found out as it needs to change another engine on one of it's A380's, and there are few spare units available.
And it's used it's spare to keep going this moment.
Lufthansa confirms the aircraft is safe to fly, subject to precautionary checks required by Rolls Royce and the European Aviation Safety Agency.
If anything, one of the powerplants from it's due to be delivered A380's may be sent off to Frankfurt to power the rest of the fleet. Therefore, it's a question of time.
And of Rolls Royce making engines that don't have faults in them.
Qantas estimates that up to 40 engines will be required for swaps throughout the global A380 RR Powered fleet.
Alan Joyce, CEO of Qantas quotes:
"We've been talking to Airbus and Rolls-Royce and we understand that the number is around 40," he said.
"We'll have a daily dialogue with Rolls-Royce to determine which engines actually need to be taken off," he said.
Trent 900's are used on A380s operated by Lufthansa, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines, which in total operate 20 aircraft, each with 4 big Trent 900 engines installed in them.
This is going to cause major issues as Lufthansa has found out as it needs to change another engine on one of it's A380's, and there are few spare units available.
And it's used it's spare to keep going this moment.
Lufthansa confirms the aircraft is safe to fly, subject to precautionary checks required by Rolls Royce and the European Aviation Safety Agency.
If anything, one of the powerplants from it's due to be delivered A380's may be sent off to Frankfurt to power the rest of the fleet. Therefore, it's a question of time.
And of Rolls Royce making engines that don't have faults in them.
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