This week it's the Swiss A340-300 San Francisco logojet taxing around Zurich Airport
More next week!
Sunday, 31 July 2011
Airplan p0rn - Swiss A340 Logojet
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week it's the Swiss A340-300 San Francisco logojet taxing around Zurich Airport
More next week!
This week it's the Swiss A340-300 San Francisco logojet taxing around Zurich Airport
More next week!
Saturday, 30 July 2011
Safety Video Saturday - Retro - Delta 767
It's time to take a step back in time as Delta shows us around one of it's then new 767ER's...
More next week!
More next week!
Friday, 29 July 2011
KE: Confirms C Series Order.
It seems that when Korean Air isn't dinging A380's here and there, it's commiting to orders placed.
Korean Air has placed a firm order for 10 Bombardier CSeries CS300 aeroplanes, converting a letter of intent signed at the Paris Air Show 2011.
Korean Air's confirmation of it going ahead with the CSeries gives the programme a welcome boost with an outstanding build of 133 aircraft.
However, compared to the numbers that Airbus were racking up with the A320NEO and even American's order for 460 Boeing and Airbus aeroplanes, this is very small beer for Bombardier.
Korean Air has placed a firm order for 10 Bombardier CSeries CS300 aeroplanes, converting a letter of intent signed at the Paris Air Show 2011.
Korean Air's confirmation of it going ahead with the CSeries gives the programme a welcome boost with an outstanding build of 133 aircraft.
However, compared to the numbers that Airbus were racking up with the A320NEO and even American's order for 460 Boeing and Airbus aeroplanes, this is very small beer for Bombardier.
Lunchtime Reading: AF447
The latest inquiry report regarding AF447 is out today.
http://www.bea.aero/en/enquetes/flight.af.447/flight.af.447.php
Sobering stuff again.
http://www.bea.aero/en/enquetes/flight.af.447/flight.af.447.php
Sobering stuff again.
AI: In the words of Ted Knight .... Well.... We're Waiting....
And we're waiting to see IF Air India can pull a rabbit out of it's hat, meet Star Alliance joining criteria, and formally be ready to join.
And they've got until the 31st July to do it.
Will it happen? That's a very good question - one that I suspect Air India cannot answer itself.......
According to The Hindu Business Times, some of the Star Alliance members are opposed to Air India joining - and a safety row may be at the heart of it according to Travel Business Monitor
Doesn't bode well....
Wednesday, 27 July 2011
CZ: They're packing them in on their A380's....
China Southern has announced how many people they're going to cram into their new A380s.
And cram is the word of the day with 506 seats on the plane, configured as
First: 8 (Lower Desk)
Business: 70 (Upper deck)
Economy: 352 in 3-4-3 configuration (Lower Deck), 76 in 2-4-2 (Upper Deck)
China Southern are due to take delivery of their first Airbus A380 in September, and will operate it initially on domestic routes between Beijing to Shanghai and Beijing to Guangzhou.
And cram is the word of the day with 506 seats on the plane, configured as
First: 8 (Lower Desk)
Business: 70 (Upper deck)
Economy: 352 in 3-4-3 configuration (Lower Deck), 76 in 2-4-2 (Upper Deck)
China Southern are due to take delivery of their first Airbus A380 in September, and will operate it initially on domestic routes between Beijing to Shanghai and Beijing to Guangzhou.
EK: A380's to KL and Rome.
It's looking like the airline who ordered a lot of Airbus A380's is looking for routes to place them on.
Emirates has announced today two new A380 routes - Rome "Leonardo da Vinci" to Dubai and Kuala Lumpur to Dubai
Rome Rotations:
Commences: 01/12/11.
Operates: Daily, All times local.
Equipment: Airbus A380.
Kuala Lumpur Rotations:
Commences: 01/12/11.
Operates: Daily, All times local.
Equipment: Airbus A380.
A bit more A380 news in a bit - this time from China Southern that deserves it's own post...
Emirates has announced today two new A380 routes - Rome "Leonardo da Vinci" to Dubai and Kuala Lumpur to Dubai
Rome Rotations:
EK97 DEP DXB 09:10 ARR FCO 12:35
EK98 DEP FCO 14:35 ARR DXB 23:05
Commences: 01/12/11.
Operates: Daily, All times local.
Equipment: Airbus A380.
Kuala Lumpur Rotations:
EK346 DEP DXB 04:05 ARR KUL 14:55
EK347 DEP KUL 19:30 ARR DXB 22:30
Commences: 01/12/11.
Operates: Daily, All times local.
Equipment: Airbus A380.
A bit more A380 news in a bit - this time from China Southern that deserves it's own post...
Tuesday, 26 July 2011
BE: Reconnects Newquay to the world... well Manchester.
Whilst Air Southwest is withering away into nothing, FlyBe has come as a knight in shining armour to offer a 4 times a week all year service connecting Newquay and Manchester.
Services commence from 30th October 2011.
Monday/Thursday/Friday
Sunday
FlyBe also connects Newquay to London... although in some cases, you might be better off using the Great Western to London Paddington.
Services commence from 30th October 2011.
Monday/Thursday/Friday
DEP NQY 10:50 ARR MAN 12:05
DEP MAN 12:30 ARR NQY 13:40
Sunday
DEP MAN 14:40 ARR NQY 15:50
DEP NQY 16:15 ARR NQY 17:30
FlyBe also connects Newquay to London... although in some cases, you might be better off using the Great Western to London Paddington.
Thank you Star Alliance - it's taken long enough.... (Star Alliance App now out)
For those of us who have iPhones and fly Star Alliance airlines, I've had to carry a PocketPC with me when I travel with a copy of the Star Alliance Gloabla timetable as the app was darn useful.
Except the iPhone in various guises has been out for some time now. And I've been waiting... patiently.
Well my wishes were answered today with a Star Alliance App.
I'll be reviewing it later on, but there is one important feature for those of us on high cost data plans outside our home countries... the data in it is Cacheable and there is an offline mode.
Which is very useful.
You can download it at the App Store or head to http://itunes.apple.com/app/star-alliance-navigator/id448905125?mt=8 and follow the links
Except the iPhone in various guises has been out for some time now. And I've been waiting... patiently.
Well my wishes were answered today with a Star Alliance App.
I'll be reviewing it later on, but there is one important feature for those of us on high cost data plans outside our home countries... the data in it is Cacheable and there is an offline mode.
Which is very useful.
You can download it at the App Store or head to http://itunes.apple.com/app/star-alliance-navigator/id448905125?mt=8 and follow the links
Monday, 25 July 2011
NH: First 787 trips announced.
ANA must be getting a few smiles along the way as it prepares for it's first 787 to be delivered from Boeing (the fact it is horrendously late is of course, besides the point).
For the first trips, the 787 will be chartered within ANA for a package tour run to Hong Kong. An additional 2 "Domestic" charter runs will also be operated by ANA so people "can experience the 787" - targeting their Mileage Club Members.
ANA are working to receiving the aircraft in September, and having it in operation a month after.
With the announcement of the charter flights, ANA have are deciding on where to deploy the first 787 after delivery - either Tokyo Haneda-Okayama or Tokyo Haneda-Hiroshima.
Well it looks like the Dream in the Dreamliner is about to wake up. Lets hope there are no further nightmares along the way......
For the first trips, the 787 will be chartered within ANA for a package tour run to Hong Kong. An additional 2 "Domestic" charter runs will also be operated by ANA so people "can experience the 787" - targeting their Mileage Club Members.
ANA are working to receiving the aircraft in September, and having it in operation a month after.
With the announcement of the charter flights, ANA have are deciding on where to deploy the first 787 after delivery - either Tokyo Haneda-Okayama or Tokyo Haneda-Hiroshima.
Well it looks like the Dream in the Dreamliner is about to wake up. Lets hope there are no further nightmares along the way......
Sunday, 24 July 2011
Airplane p0rn - Spanair MD87
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week, it's Spanair McDonnald Douglas MD87, painted up in Star Alliance colours parked up at Barcelona El Pratt Airport.
More of course next week!
This week, it's Spanair McDonnald Douglas MD87, painted up in Star Alliance colours parked up at Barcelona El Pratt Airport.
More of course next week!
Saturday, 23 July 2011
Safety Video Saturday - Philippine Airlines
It's time again for another Safety Video. This week, Philippine Airlines are leading the pack....
More next week!
More next week!
Friday, 22 July 2011
BA: A Right Royal messup.
It seems the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (or Prince Will and Kate Middlton to the rest of us) had a problem on the way home from the USA.
The couple flew BA on a 747 from LA to London. Alas, the bird decided to have an IFE failure inflight.
And as a result, service compensation went into play. Which, if you're stuck in BA First (and there are worse places to be in the world when you have a broken IFE system)
Now those of us who are frequent flyers would had opted for the miles. This being Will and Kate, BA's normal practice is to offer £200 each of Vouchers (MCO's - Miscellaneous Charge Orders).
The worst part: They want to watch Bridesmaids on the IFE system
Even worst part: They went off to a cinema afterwards to watch it...
Oh well, at least the version they watched in the cinema wouldn't had been cut to shreds... like some films in a plane.
The couple flew BA on a 747 from LA to London. Alas, the bird decided to have an IFE failure inflight.
And as a result, service compensation went into play. Which, if you're stuck in BA First (and there are worse places to be in the world when you have a broken IFE system)
Now those of us who are frequent flyers would had opted for the miles. This being Will and Kate, BA's normal practice is to offer £200 each of Vouchers (MCO's - Miscellaneous Charge Orders).
The worst part: They want to watch Bridesmaids on the IFE system
Even worst part: They went off to a cinema afterwards to watch it...
Oh well, at least the version they watched in the cinema wouldn't had been cut to shreds... like some films in a plane.
KE: Don't Ding that new A380... oops. Too late.
AVHerald picked this gem up.
It seems a Korean Air Airbus A380 was landing at Tokyo Narita - an airport famed for it's mad winds sadly, made a landing - landing on one of the engine pods.
I'll let the picture do the talking.
Picture - avherald.com
Not the most graceful of landings.
The aircraft itself was able to right itself on landing, and rolled to the gate safely. The runway was shut for 20 minutes for inspections, before being reopened.
The A380 itself returned to Seoul as booked with passengers and a 1 hour delay on the board.
Whilst Narita wild winds are known (one only need remember the FedEx crash last year), it's amazing that there's so minimal damage... and that Korean Air said "Hang it, we'll fly her home with passengers rather than an empty ferry flight"
No doubt, there's more to this than meets the eye...
It seems a Korean Air Airbus A380 was landing at Tokyo Narita - an airport famed for it's mad winds sadly, made a landing - landing on one of the engine pods.
I'll let the picture do the talking.
Not the most graceful of landings.
The aircraft itself was able to right itself on landing, and rolled to the gate safely. The runway was shut for 20 minutes for inspections, before being reopened.
The A380 itself returned to Seoul as booked with passengers and a 1 hour delay on the board.
Whilst Narita wild winds are known (one only need remember the FedEx crash last year), it's amazing that there's so minimal damage... and that Korean Air said "Hang it, we'll fly her home with passengers rather than an empty ferry flight"
No doubt, there's more to this than meets the eye...
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Shuttle Atlantis: Home Safe.
Ok, this is nothing to do with commerical flight, but I don't care. An end of an era today as the Space Shuttle Atlantis touched down safely at Kennedy Space Centre today.
Images: NASA.
The landing brings to a close of 30 years of Space Shuttle programme.
Atlantis will be put into a museum at the Kennedy Space Centre in the future.
The landing brings to a close of 30 years of Space Shuttle programme.
Atlantis will be put into a museum at the Kennedy Space Centre in the future.
ANA and Air Asia to form Air Asia Japan
It seems ANA want to really get into this Low Cost Carrier thing. As well as developing their own Lo-Co "Peach Aviation", they have also today annoucned a new joint venture with Air Asia to form Air Asia Japan.
The aim is to go after the Japanese domestic market. As such, ANA and Air Asia have agreed not to attack the new airline - however the agreement allows Peach Aviation to go on the offensive if required from it's base at Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Peach will not be allowed to serve Tokyo Narita in this agreement.
From it's base, it's clear where Air Asia wishes to spread next via this new subsiduary - Japan itself, as well as North China, South Korea and Taiwan, whilst linking it up further with it's South East Asian markets.
ANA is the "Other" major carrier in Japan and competes with JAL as well as other local airlines. Air Asia is represented in Japan already by it's Air Asia X subsidiary, running long haul services.
No launch date has been announced or equipment specified, but it has been confirmed that Air Asia Japan when operating will operate from Tokyo Narita Airport.
When this shakes out, it'll be interesting how "toe to toe" Peach and Air Asia Japan go. Japan's domestic market tends to be based on big birds tightly packed to the gills in high density operations - it'll be interesting to see how these adapt.
The aim is to go after the Japanese domestic market. As such, ANA and Air Asia have agreed not to attack the new airline - however the agreement allows Peach Aviation to go on the offensive if required from it's base at Osaka's Kansai International Airport. Peach will not be allowed to serve Tokyo Narita in this agreement.
From it's base, it's clear where Air Asia wishes to spread next via this new subsiduary - Japan itself, as well as North China, South Korea and Taiwan, whilst linking it up further with it's South East Asian markets.
ANA is the "Other" major carrier in Japan and competes with JAL as well as other local airlines. Air Asia is represented in Japan already by it's Air Asia X subsidiary, running long haul services.
No launch date has been announced or equipment specified, but it has been confirmed that Air Asia Japan when operating will operate from Tokyo Narita Airport.
When this shakes out, it'll be interesting how "toe to toe" Peach and Air Asia Japan go. Japan's domestic market tends to be based on big birds tightly packed to the gills in high density operations - it'll be interesting to see how these adapt.
Wednesday, 20 July 2011
AA: New Order - Airbus eeks ahead of Boeing.
Surprisingly, American's orders for new aircraft will be a "win" for Airbus over Boeing
For Boeing frames it's 200 frames, split between the current 737NG models (700/800/900ER) and the "expected evolution of the 737NG" (the frame Boeing doesn't talk about - least of all they don't know what that frame looks like yet...)
First Boeing 737's NG are expected from 2013.
Meanwhile, with negotiation with Airbus, the 260 aircraft will be made up of 130 of the current generation of Airbus narrow body (A319/A320/A321), and the A320Neo Series.
Current A320 series deliveries commence in 2013, A320Neo Series from 2017.
Delivery through both series are due to begin in 2013, and continue through 2022.
That's a LOT of frames as I said before - and spells the end for the MD-80's that still fly with AA.
For Boeing frames it's 200 frames, split between the current 737NG models (700/800/900ER) and the "expected evolution of the 737NG" (the frame Boeing doesn't talk about - least of all they don't know what that frame looks like yet...)
First Boeing 737's NG are expected from 2013.
Meanwhile, with negotiation with Airbus, the 260 aircraft will be made up of 130 of the current generation of Airbus narrow body (A319/A320/A321), and the A320Neo Series.
Current A320 series deliveries commence in 2013, A320Neo Series from 2017.
Delivery through both series are due to begin in 2013, and continue through 2022.
That's a LOT of frames as I said before - and spells the end for the MD-80's that still fly with AA.
AA: Massive Narrow Body renewal: Airbus and Boeing share the spoils....
It seems American Airlines is in the mood to upgrade parts of it fleet, with the announcement today that has agreed with Boeing and Airbus to renew it's fleets.
Under the new agreements, American will acquire 460 narrowbody aircraft from the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families beginning in 2013 in what American calls "the largest aircraft order in aviation history."
Don't think they're doing this for love - there's looking at the long term fuel efficiency gains.
When I see a breakdown of the "actual numbers" and "options", it'll be reported here.
For those of you who love your wide bodies, American has seen the light, and has 8 Boeing 777-300ER's that a scheduled for delivery between 2012 and 2013. American has options for 42 Boeing 787 frames at this time too.
Lots for American's competitors to chew over.
Under the new agreements, American will acquire 460 narrowbody aircraft from the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families beginning in 2013 in what American calls "the largest aircraft order in aviation history."
Don't think they're doing this for love - there's looking at the long term fuel efficiency gains.
When I see a breakdown of the "actual numbers" and "options", it'll be reported here.
For those of you who love your wide bodies, American has seen the light, and has 8 Boeing 777-300ER's that a scheduled for delivery between 2012 and 2013. American has options for 42 Boeing 787 frames at this time too.
Lots for American's competitors to chew over.
Tuesday, 19 July 2011
BD: Off to Nice and Agadir
It's never a dull minute at Castle Donnington where BMI have announced new routes to Agadir (Morocco) and Nice (France)
The Nice service will commence on 25th August on a single return flight a day on the 25th August 2011, scaling up to 2 return flights a day from 30th October 2011. This will be operated with an A320.
From 25 August – to 29 October 2011:
From 30 October 2011:
The Agadir service will be operated twice weekly, commencing 29th October. This compliments the current Marrakech and Casablanca flights. Again, this will be operated on an A320.
29 October 2011 only:
From 1 November 2011:
These are odd moves for BMI, least of all Nice has major competition with British Airways and Easyjet, whilst Agadir has competition with the low cost carriers.
Fares have not been disclosed, but knowing the loony bin known as Revenue Management at BMI, you can be sure they'll either be sky high or bargain basement.
The Nice service will commence on 25th August on a single return flight a day on the 25th August 2011, scaling up to 2 return flights a day from 30th October 2011. This will be operated with an A320.
From 25 August – to 29 October 2011:
BD195 Dept LHR 17:30 Arrive NCE 20:40
BD196 Dept NCE 21:30 Arrive LHR 22:30
From 30 October 2011:
BD193 Dept LHR 08:50 Arrive NCE 11:45
BD194 Dept NCE 13:10 Arrive LHR 14:15 (Operates MON, TUE, WED, SAT)
BD194 Dept NCE 13:00 Arrive LHR 14:05 (Operates THUR, FRI)
BD195 Dept LHR 17:50 Arrive NCE 20:50 (Operates MON, TUE, WED, THURS, FRI, SAT)
BD196 Dept NCE 21:35 Arrive LHR 22:35
The Agadir service will be operated twice weekly, commencing 29th October. This compliments the current Marrakech and Casablanca flights. Again, this will be operated on an A320.
29 October 2011 only:
BD445 Dept LHR 10:55 Arrive AGA 13:55
BD446 Dept AGA 15:40 Arrive LHR 20:35
From 1 November 2011:
BD445 Dept LHR 09:55 Arrive 13:55 TUESDAYS
BD446 Dept AGA 14:50 Arrive 18:45 TUESDAYS
BD445 Dept LHR 10:50 Arrive 14:50 SATURDAYS
BD446 Dept AGA 15:40 Arrive 19:35 SATURDAYS
These are odd moves for BMI, least of all Nice has major competition with British Airways and Easyjet, whilst Agadir has competition with the low cost carriers.
Fares have not been disclosed, but knowing the loony bin known as Revenue Management at BMI, you can be sure they'll either be sky high or bargain basement.
BAA: Competition Commission says "Flog Stansted ... and either Glasgow or Edinburgh "
It seems that the Competition Commission has has enough of BAA, and has ruled it must sell Stansted and either Glasgow or Edinburgh airports.
This is a follow on from the case in 2009 where BAA was instructed to sell Gatwick as well (which it did unwillingly), and challenged the sale of the other airports.
BAA is "dismayed" and is preparing to launch a judicial review - buying more time before it has to sell the airports, calling it a 'Draconian demand'.
The Competition Commission says:
However, BAA cite that the world has changed, that different markets are served and they'd loose money on any sale that an investor could make money on -and destroy shareholder value.
Unsurprisingly, Ryanair is on the side of the Competition Commission, as is EasyJet who favour going for the best value.
If a review is granted, expect this to play out for a lot longer.....
This is a follow on from the case in 2009 where BAA was instructed to sell Gatwick as well (which it did unwillingly), and challenged the sale of the other airports.
BAA is "dismayed" and is preparing to launch a judicial review - buying more time before it has to sell the airports, calling it a 'Draconian demand'.
The Competition Commission says:
"that the sales process for Stansted would start in three months' time, and would be followed by the sale of one of the Scottish airports."
However, BAA cite that the world has changed, that different markets are served and they'd loose money on any sale that an investor could make money on -and destroy shareholder value.
Unsurprisingly, Ryanair is on the side of the Competition Commission, as is EasyJet who favour going for the best value.
If a review is granted, expect this to play out for a lot longer.....
SQ: Boosts routes for the Winter Season
Singapore Airlines is boosting certain routes over the winter season. They are:
Singapore Airlines is to raise frequencies on select routes between as well as enter a code share with Moscow-based Transaero.
Here are the new timings:
Ahmedabad, India - Goes from 2 flights to 3 per week.
Bangkok, Thailand – Goes from four flights a day to Five
Guanghou, China - Goes from Daily to Twice Daily
Istanbul, Turkey – Goes 4 times a week to 6 times a week, with 3 services continuing onto Athens
Osaka, Japan - Goes from 10 to 11
Toyko, Japan - Goes from Daily to Twice Daily
Mumbai, India - Goes from 14 flights a week to 17
These changes are due to commence October 30 2011 and March 24 2012.
In addition, there is a raft of codeshares with Transaero being announced, with SQ's code appearing on UN Flights, and a UN flight code appearing on the SIN-DME-HOU service.
The code sharing starts officially on the 1st August... and it's looking more and more like Star Alliance have a partner in Russia with Transaero (Austria, BMI and
EgyptAir currently codeshare with them).
Singapore Airlines is to raise frequencies on select routes between as well as enter a code share with Moscow-based Transaero.
Here are the new timings:
Ahmedabad, India - Goes from 2 flights to 3 per week.
Bangkok, Thailand – Goes from four flights a day to Five
Guanghou, China - Goes from Daily to Twice Daily
Istanbul, Turkey – Goes 4 times a week to 6 times a week, with 3 services continuing onto Athens
Osaka, Japan - Goes from 10 to 11
Toyko, Japan - Goes from Daily to Twice Daily
Mumbai, India - Goes from 14 flights a week to 17
These changes are due to commence October 30 2011 and March 24 2012.
In addition, there is a raft of codeshares with Transaero being announced, with SQ's code appearing on UN Flights, and a UN flight code appearing on the SIN-DME-HOU service.
The code sharing starts officially on the 1st August... and it's looking more and more like Star Alliance have a partner in Russia with Transaero (Austria, BMI and
EgyptAir currently codeshare with them).
Monday, 18 July 2011
I think I'm reaching a new level of Madness...
... as I'm considering Eurolines to Brussels to start my next trip.
Now for those of you who aren't aware, this is a coach service.
You read that right. A coach service across the channel (with a ferry sailing to boot).
The trouble is the day I need to position into Brussels, hotels are not appearing cheaply, Eurostar is costing an arm and a leg (unless I get to Brussels first thing - and to be honest, there are better places in the world to visit that Brussels) and ai fares? Don't get me started on the cost of a single ticket to BRU.
However the economics of the coach are unsurpassed (£32 for the coach vs £150 for a hotel and £39 for a Cheap Eurostar), and it will position me with plenty of time out to Brussels Airport where I can collaspe in a lounge until my flight to LHR is called.
Convince me out of it please before I hit the magical "Book" Button???
Now for those of you who aren't aware, this is a coach service.
You read that right. A coach service across the channel (with a ferry sailing to boot).
The trouble is the day I need to position into Brussels, hotels are not appearing cheaply, Eurostar is costing an arm and a leg (unless I get to Brussels first thing - and to be honest, there are better places in the world to visit that Brussels) and ai fares? Don't get me started on the cost of a single ticket to BRU.
However the economics of the coach are unsurpassed (£32 for the coach vs £150 for a hotel and £39 for a Cheap Eurostar), and it will position me with plenty of time out to Brussels Airport where I can collaspe in a lounge until my flight to LHR is called.
Convince me out of it please before I hit the magical "Book" Button???
TG: A380's Inital destinations are annouced.
And there's no prizes for guessing where.
Thai Airways are looking like London and Frankfurt to be the first Long Haul destinations due to the high loads and twice daily services that operate from there already. However, don't expect them in a rush. In the first phase, they will receive one A380, which will primarily operate regional routes. By the end of 2012, Thai Airways will have Three in the fleet - enough to begin a real service.
Another 3 are destined for delivery in 2013, taking it to a grand total of Six Airbus A380's.
For those who like to know there seats, it's 507 seats broken down into 435 in Economy, 60 Business and 12 First seats.
Thai Airways are looking like London and Frankfurt to be the first Long Haul destinations due to the high loads and twice daily services that operate from there already. However, don't expect them in a rush. In the first phase, they will receive one A380, which will primarily operate regional routes. By the end of 2012, Thai Airways will have Three in the fleet - enough to begin a real service.
Another 3 are destined for delivery in 2013, taking it to a grand total of Six Airbus A380's.
For those who like to know there seats, it's 507 seats broken down into 435 in Economy, 60 Business and 12 First seats.
Sunday, 17 July 2011
Airplan p0rn - Thomson Boeing 767
Well Sunday weaves it's merry way around again, so it must be time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week, it's a Thomson Boeing 767-300ER with Winglets... and having it's engines seen to at Birmingham Airport.
More next week!
This week, it's a Thomson Boeing 767-300ER with Winglets... and having it's engines seen to at Birmingham Airport.
More next week!
Well I might have a use for some of this Canadian shrapnel after all ....
Coming this September: Multi-Modal-Mayhem (or YYZ2)!
Although you might notice a problem with this map...
This starts in Brussels and ends in.... Frankfurt.
Much more to come on this in the coming months - although you might be able to guess by the title how I get to Brussels..........
There's also a couple of other things on the brew - my usual Chicago trip and... something that is beyond bonkers.
More on that next week ;)
Saturday, 16 July 2011
Safety Video Saturday - Condor 767
It's Saturday, so it's time to pop your seats into the upright position as Condor tell you how to be safe onboard their aircraft
More next week
More next week
Thursday, 14 July 2011
SZ: Air Southwest... abandons the Southwest (Plymouth and Newquay)
it seems nothing goes right for Air Southwest
After loosing money hand over foot, being sold to Eastern Airways, the final nails in the coffin are looming with the shut down of Newquay and Plymouth routes from the 14th September.
In short - the airline will cease to exist at that point.
Flights from Newquay simply didn't make money without Plymouth, so it's been decided to pull:
Newquay to Glasgow,
Newquay to Guernsey, Jersey
Newquay to Manchester
In addition, the following services will be pulled on the 30th September, ending Air Southwest services:
Newquay to Aberdeen,
Newquay to Bristol,
Newquay to Cork,
Newquay to Dublin
Newquay to Leeds Bradford
For those holding bookings after termination dates, your tickets will be refunded. And for those affected, it's time to look at tickets on the train, rail or sea.
After loosing money hand over foot, being sold to Eastern Airways, the final nails in the coffin are looming with the shut down of Newquay and Plymouth routes from the 14th September.
In short - the airline will cease to exist at that point.
Flights from Newquay simply didn't make money without Plymouth, so it's been decided to pull:
Newquay to Glasgow,
Newquay to Guernsey, Jersey
Newquay to Manchester
In addition, the following services will be pulled on the 30th September, ending Air Southwest services:
Newquay to Aberdeen,
Newquay to Bristol,
Newquay to Cork,
Newquay to Dublin
Newquay to Leeds Bradford
For those holding bookings after termination dates, your tickets will be refunded. And for those affected, it's time to look at tickets on the train, rail or sea.
USA Today: More than 25,000 security breaches since November 2001
... or as I like to call it 25,000 FAILURES.
This excludes any fondling, X-rays, nude-o-scoping. Of which if we counted those, we'd be here for forever and day.
http://travel.usatoday.com/flights/story/2011/07/Airport-security-breaches-since-2001-raise-alarms/49326312/1 is where the story is at. Have a read then head back here.
Whilst some of these incidents are for example heading down the wrong corridor, some of them have been more worrying with fake bombs and weapons being missed.
And simply put TSA - this isn't good enough.
Heck if I fluffed up that many times, I'd be kicked out of the door with a P45 (what Americans would call a "Pink Slip") in my hand.
As I have been on the rough end of TSA screening more than once (be it on my person with a full fondle at IAD, hand swabbings at ORD and IAD, the destruction of my luggage not once, but TWICE), dear reader - you can understand why I have no sympathy for the TSA.
If they want the role they so vauntly impose on passengers - fine, but do a good job of it.
NOT THE LOUSY ONE THEY'RE DOING AT THE MOMENT.
This excludes any fondling, X-rays, nude-o-scoping. Of which if we counted those, we'd be here for forever and day.
http://travel.usatoday.com/flights/story/2011/07/Airport-security-breaches-since-2001-raise-alarms/49326312/1 is where the story is at. Have a read then head back here.
Whilst some of these incidents are for example heading down the wrong corridor, some of them have been more worrying with fake bombs and weapons being missed.
And simply put TSA - this isn't good enough.
Heck if I fluffed up that many times, I'd be kicked out of the door with a P45 (what Americans would call a "Pink Slip") in my hand.
As I have been on the rough end of TSA screening more than once (be it on my person with a full fondle at IAD, hand swabbings at ORD and IAD, the destruction of my luggage not once, but TWICE), dear reader - you can understand why I have no sympathy for the TSA.
If they want the role they so vauntly impose on passengers - fine, but do a good job of it.
NOT THE LOUSY ONE THEY'RE DOING AT THE MOMENT.
CZ: First to use A380's... Domesticly within China
China Southern has been busy, as the SkyTeam member has announced it's first operations for it's incoming A380 fleet.
The A380's are planned to serve on daily China domestic services between Beijing-Guangzhou and Beijing-Shanghai Hongqiao.
Reasons cited include high domestic traffic on routes, and in the case of Beijing - Shanghai route, competition from the new High Speed Rail service.
For those with an international eye, the first International service will be Bejing Guangzhou-Paris CDG.
For those who love the Whalejet, the first China Southern A380 is due for delivery in September, the second in November, with ticket sales commencing on the 20th September.
The A380's are planned to serve on daily China domestic services between Beijing-Guangzhou and Beijing-Shanghai Hongqiao.
Reasons cited include high domestic traffic on routes, and in the case of Beijing - Shanghai route, competition from the new High Speed Rail service.
For those with an international eye, the first International service will be Bejing Guangzhou-Paris CDG.
For those who love the Whalejet, the first China Southern A380 is due for delivery in September, the second in November, with ticket sales commencing on the 20th September.
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
FR: Back to MAN.
After a partial pullout from Manchester over charges a few years ago, Ryanair are back again now that BMI Baby is pulling out of the airport.
Ryanair will operate services from Manchester to Alicante, Girona, Bezier, Biarritz, Bremen, Brussels, Dublin, Faro, Frankfurt, Ibiza, Katowice, Madrid, Malaga, Memmingen, Milan, Murcia, Oslo, Palma, Paris, Reus, Rome, Rzeszow, Tallinn, Tours, Tenerife and Valencia (Note that these will be how Ryanair define these places. Add time to get into the final destination).
These tickets are on sale tomorrow, and I wouldn't put it past Ryanair to act like a certain UK sofa company, and have a sale for them.
Hopefully Ryanair has learnt that bullying airports can lead to them saying "No" from this experience. Well, we can but hope...
Ryanair will operate services from Manchester to Alicante, Girona, Bezier, Biarritz, Bremen, Brussels, Dublin, Faro, Frankfurt, Ibiza, Katowice, Madrid, Malaga, Memmingen, Milan, Murcia, Oslo, Palma, Paris, Reus, Rome, Rzeszow, Tallinn, Tours, Tenerife and Valencia (Note that these will be how Ryanair define these places. Add time to get into the final destination).
These tickets are on sale tomorrow, and I wouldn't put it past Ryanair to act like a certain UK sofa company, and have a sale for them.
Hopefully Ryanair has learnt that bullying airports can lead to them saying "No" from this experience. Well, we can but hope...
D7: Air Asia X is moving from STN to LGW
For those of you who love Low Cost Carriers on ultra-long haul routes, Air Asia X is upping sticks from London Stansted and heading over to London Gatwick.
This will be for flights arriving and departing from October 24th, providing better connections to the South East and beyond.
Slots times will be simlar, so check your travel plans - EasyJet is also cooperating and can transfer onto LGW flights (at a cost no doubt).
For those of you hoping for a fare sale to promote this: Bad news - due to taxes heading into 3 figures, there's not a cat in hells chance of that happening.
Still it's a small boost for Gatwick. And more importantly for some of us: it isn't Stansted.
This will be for flights arriving and departing from October 24th, providing better connections to the South East and beyond.
Slots times will be simlar, so check your travel plans - EasyJet is also cooperating and can transfer onto LGW flights (at a cost no doubt).
For those of you hoping for a fare sale to promote this: Bad news - due to taxes heading into 3 figures, there's not a cat in hells chance of that happening.
Still it's a small boost for Gatwick. And more importantly for some of us: it isn't Stansted.
Monday, 11 July 2011
TT: Tiger Airways Australia - Court appearance set for 22/07
Tiger Airways Australia's case for an extended grounded by the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) will be heard on 22nd July.
Subject to the result of the hearing will determine if Tiger Australia remains grounded, or actually flies. If the hearing goes against Tiger Australia, they grounded till at least the 1st August.
Tiger Australia has said it is optimistic that it will resume services.
Tiger Airways Singapore continues to fly at this time.
However with the cash it's now bleeding per day and keeping 10 A320's on the ground with the staff... can it survive in it's current form?
Subject to the result of the hearing will determine if Tiger Australia remains grounded, or actually flies. If the hearing goes against Tiger Australia, they grounded till at least the 1st August.
Tiger Australia has said it is optimistic that it will resume services.
Tiger Airways Singapore continues to fly at this time.
However with the cash it's now bleeding per day and keeping 10 A320's on the ground with the staff... can it survive in it's current form?
In it for the Miles - ua1flyer hits 10,000,000 Miles ... the HARD Way.
ua1flyer - or Thomas Stuker has made one hell of an achievement. That is flying 10,000,000 (Ten Million) miles with United.
For those keeping track that's, 5,962 United Airlines flights flying the equivalent of 400 times around the globe.
And no matter what class you're in, that's one hell of a lot of flying.
And that's one hell of a cause for a party in Chicago - which is what Flyertalkers and United Airlines did.
There is coverage all over the web about this from ABC News, the PA Newswire, at One Mile at a Time and of course on FlyerTalk
Well done! - 10 million miles, butt in seat is hard going!
For those keeping track that's, 5,962 United Airlines flights flying the equivalent of 400 times around the globe.
And no matter what class you're in, that's one hell of a lot of flying.
And that's one hell of a cause for a party in Chicago - which is what Flyertalkers and United Airlines did.
There is coverage all over the web about this from ABC News, the PA Newswire, at One Mile at a Time and of course on FlyerTalk
Well done! - 10 million miles, butt in seat is hard going!
QF: Pliots vote for industrial action
It seems all is not well aboard the good ship Qantas with the pilots voting to take industrial action over pay and conditions.
With 94% of those who voted voting for action - although at this time the exact form (eg strikes) has not been decided or when it would take place. The Union wishes to use the threat of the action as a stick to push Qantas management to the table for discussions.
The Pilots are unhappy with plans to shift operations to Asia and outsource some of the pilots (with the upcoming start of Qantas Asia operations). Qantas are disappointed that the pilots have voted to take action and inconvenience the Australian traveller. They also state that current demands from the union are "excessive and unsustainable".
Oh great. Another round of strike action round the corner. Just what we all need...
With 94% of those who voted voting for action - although at this time the exact form (eg strikes) has not been decided or when it would take place. The Union wishes to use the threat of the action as a stick to push Qantas management to the table for discussions.
The Pilots are unhappy with plans to shift operations to Asia and outsource some of the pilots (with the upcoming start of Qantas Asia operations). Qantas are disappointed that the pilots have voted to take action and inconvenience the Australian traveller. They also state that current demands from the union are "excessive and unsustainable".
Oh great. Another round of strike action round the corner. Just what we all need...
Sunday, 10 July 2011
Airplan p0rn - Swiss International Airlines BAe 146/Avro 100.
It's Sunday again, so it's time for some more Airplane p0rn.
This week, it's a Swiss Bae 146/Avro RJ-100 in Zurich Shopping Paradise livery about to take off at Zurich Airport.
More next week!
This week, it's a Swiss Bae 146/Avro RJ-100 in Zurich Shopping Paradise livery about to take off at Zurich Airport.
More next week!
Saturday, 9 July 2011
Safety Video Saturday - Saudi Arabian Airlines
It seems a bit more CGI is in vouge at the moment, as Saudi Arabian Airlines has revamped it's safety video.
See what you think.
More next week!
See what you think.
More next week!
Friday, 8 July 2011
VS: Strike threat lifted.
Good news for those of you travelling on Virgin Atlantic, with BALPA lifting the threat of strike action for now.
It seems a new offer has been received from the management at Virgin Atlantic, and BALPA will need time to present it to its members.
However, some commercial confidentiality is in place with no details of the offer being made public.
Will this quell the threat? I don't honestly know...
It seems a new offer has been received from the management at Virgin Atlantic, and BALPA will need time to present it to its members.
However, some commercial confidentiality is in place with no details of the offer being made public.
Will this quell the threat? I don't honestly know...
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
TT: CASA to attempt to keep Tiger Austraila grounded until 1st August....
It seems the CASA is just not happy with Tiger Airways Australia at the moment, and is seeking permission for Tiger to be grounded until 1st August 2011.
The purpose is for the CASA to complete it's investigations.
The CASA states:
Tiger Airlines says it will not oppose a grounding extension.
Alas, there is fallout already hitting with the CEO of Tiger Australia Crawford Rix - standing down at the end of the month.
At the moment, fares will be refunded to 31st July with Tiger Australia.
The advice for people who are travelling down under is clear - until Tiger Australia gets a clean certificate to fly - avoid, and rebook with other carriers. Tiger Airways Singapore remains in service.
The purpose is for the CASA to complete it's investigations.
The CASA states:
"If CASA completes its investigations and determinations before 1 August 2011 and is satisfied Tiger Airways Australia no longer poses a serious and imminent risk to air safety it may be possible for it to resume operations earlier," said CASA.
"The suspension of Tiger Airways Australia's operations remains in place at until either the Federal Court refuses CASA's application or CASA withdraws it."
Tiger Airlines says it will not oppose a grounding extension.
Alas, there is fallout already hitting with the CEO of Tiger Australia Crawford Rix - standing down at the end of the month.
At the moment, fares will be refunded to 31st July with Tiger Australia.
The advice for people who are travelling down under is clear - until Tiger Australia gets a clean certificate to fly - avoid, and rebook with other carriers. Tiger Airways Singapore remains in service.
LH: Adding another UK airport to the mix - to serve London Gatwick
Gatwick is getting more traffic it seems with the re-entrance of Lufthansa serving Frankfurt directly.
Commencing 30th October, this service will operate twice daily:
Morning Rotation
Evening Rotation
Booked Equipment: Boeing 737-500.
I'm honestly confused about these timings to be honest. Whilst they are good for Eastbound connections to Asia, they don't seem to fit into "business" times, nor do they cater for the first few banks of US-Bound flights (and with a delay, you could wind up missing all US bound flights).
It'll be interesting to see those who don't want to go around the M25 to Heathrow seeing if this route takes off.....
Commencing 30th October, this service will operate twice daily:
Morning Rotation
DEPT FRA 08:45 ARR LGW 09:10
DEPT LGW 09:50 ARR FRA 12:25
Evening Rotation
DEPT FRA 16:25 ARR LGW 16:50
DEPT LGW 17:40 ARR FRA 20:15
Booked Equipment: Boeing 737-500.
I'm honestly confused about these timings to be honest. Whilst they are good for Eastbound connections to Asia, they don't seem to fit into "business" times, nor do they cater for the first few banks of US-Bound flights (and with a delay, you could wind up missing all US bound flights).
It'll be interesting to see those who don't want to go around the M25 to Heathrow seeing if this route takes off.....
ZH: Shenzhen Airlines to Join Star Alliance
After the loss of one of it's partners in China (Shanghai Airlines), it seems Star Alliance is trying again with a new partner - Shenzhen Airlines.
The airline has been accepted as a future member of Star, and is due to join within the next 24 months.
Shenzhen Airlines will provide more connectivity to Southern China, along with it's 85% majority owner Air China.
Shenzhen Airlines operate a narrow body fleet of Airbus A319's, A320's, and various Boeing 737's, connecting 58 Chinese Domestic airports and 9 international destinations.
The integration process has begun, with a lot of work to do before they are formally admitted into the alliance.
This will add more destinations and gain size in a place where Star has been lacking compared to it's competitors recently. What price that growth... is of course another question entirely....
The airline has been accepted as a future member of Star, and is due to join within the next 24 months.
Shenzhen Airlines will provide more connectivity to Southern China, along with it's 85% majority owner Air China.
Shenzhen Airlines operate a narrow body fleet of Airbus A319's, A320's, and various Boeing 737's, connecting 58 Chinese Domestic airports and 9 international destinations.
The integration process has begun, with a lot of work to do before they are formally admitted into the alliance.
This will add more destinations and gain size in a place where Star has been lacking compared to it's competitors recently. What price that growth... is of course another question entirely....
Monday, 4 July 2011
TT: Tiger Airways Australia - Still Grounded
Tiger Airways Australia remains grounded for Australian domestic departures following the intervention of the CASA on Saturday.
Tiger are holding talks with the CASA to try and get back in the air, but these are bearing no fruit as of yet.
Or to put in the CASA's words:
Tiger Chief Executive Tony Davis has flown to Australia for talks, with the aim of getting Tiger's fleet of 10 A320's back in the air.
Estimates from Tiger Airlines Holdings indicate for each week the airline is grounded, around $1.6 to 2.0 Million Singapore Dollars is lost - which is a lot of money in anyone's book.
So if you're trapped thanks to Tiger Airways Australia, what can you do? Thankfully all 3 major operators have responded:
Jetstar have loaded special fares http://www.jetstar.com/au/en/travel-alerts
Virgin Australia have loaded special fares- http://www.virginaustralia.com/servicedisruption/index.htm,
Qantas has guidance and fares - http://www.qantas.com.au/travel/airlines/disruptions/global/en
All operators will require you to contact them directly as space is tight over the Austrailian holiday season, and no one are selling recovery fares online. Note that Tiger Airways Singapore (who operate services between Australia and Singapore as well is the South East Asia region) are unaffected by this action by the CASA.
Good luck if you're stuck. GhettoIFE.com will keep an eye on from the other side of the world....
Tiger are holding talks with the CASA to try and get back in the air, but these are bearing no fruit as of yet.
Or to put in the CASA's words:
"CASA believes permitting the airline to continue to fly poses a serious and imminent risk to air safety"Ouch.
Tiger Chief Executive Tony Davis has flown to Australia for talks, with the aim of getting Tiger's fleet of 10 A320's back in the air.
Estimates from Tiger Airlines Holdings indicate for each week the airline is grounded, around $1.6 to 2.0 Million Singapore Dollars is lost - which is a lot of money in anyone's book.
So if you're trapped thanks to Tiger Airways Australia, what can you do? Thankfully all 3 major operators have responded:
Jetstar have loaded special fares http://www.jetstar.com/au/en/travel-alerts
Virgin Australia have loaded special fares- http://www.virginaustralia.com/servicedisruption/index.htm,
Qantas has guidance and fares - http://www.qantas.com.au/travel/airlines/disruptions/global/en
All operators will require you to contact them directly as space is tight over the Austrailian holiday season, and no one are selling recovery fares online. Note that Tiger Airways Singapore (who operate services between Australia and Singapore as well is the South East Asia region) are unaffected by this action by the CASA.
Good luck if you're stuck. GhettoIFE.com will keep an eye on from the other side of the world....
Sunday, 3 July 2011
Airplane p0rn - Air Canada Boeing 777-300ER
It's Sunday again, so it must be time for some more airplane p0rn.
This week, it's an Air Canada Boeing 777-300ER parked at Toronto Pearson International
More next week!
This week, it's an Air Canada Boeing 777-300ER parked at Toronto Pearson International
More next week!
Saturday, 2 July 2011
QF: Safety Video Saturday - Qantas
It's time for controversy and to put you seat into the upright position as John Travolta and friends at Qantas give you the low down on being safe with them:
More safety next week!
More safety next week!
TT: Tiger Airways Australia - Grounded.
Tiger Airways Australia have come to a cropper, and have been grounded by the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority as the authority has "lost confidence in Tiger's ability to manage safety appropriately".
All Tiger Airways Australia have been grounded at least until 9th July.
The CASA said it took the action because it believed permitting the airline to continue to fly posed a serious and imminent risk to air safety.
CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said the action was not taken lightly and was the culmination of a number of events this year.
"All on top of each other, (they) add up to a position where the Civil Aviation Safety Authority has " Mr Gibson said.
"The last thing CASA wants to do is put airlines on the ground and inconvenience the travelling public but safety has to come first."
Two major incidents have occurred, with aircraft being flown too low into Melbourne and Avalon airports involving A320's.
Combined with previous issues with Tiger, they've been grounded for a week to sort themselves out, although this could be extended if the CASA choose to via the Federal Courts.
For updates if you're in the unfortunate position of being stuck with Tiger Australia, head to http://www.tigerairways.com/au/en/disruption.php
Virgin Australia has launched rescue fares: http://www.virginaustralia.com/servicedisruption/index.htm, with JetStar Australia adding extra flights.
All Tiger Airways Australia have been grounded at least until 9th July.
The CASA said it took the action because it believed permitting the airline to continue to fly posed a serious and imminent risk to air safety.
CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said the action was not taken lightly and was the culmination of a number of events this year.
"All on top of each other, (they) add up to a position where the Civil Aviation Safety Authority has " Mr Gibson said.
"The last thing CASA wants to do is put airlines on the ground and inconvenience the travelling public but safety has to come first."
Two major incidents have occurred, with aircraft being flown too low into Melbourne and Avalon airports involving A320's.
Combined with previous issues with Tiger, they've been grounded for a week to sort themselves out, although this could be extended if the CASA choose to via the Federal Courts.
For updates if you're in the unfortunate position of being stuck with Tiger Australia, head to http://www.tigerairways.com/au/en/disruption.php
Virgin Australia has launched rescue fares: http://www.virginaustralia.com/servicedisruption/index.htm, with JetStar Australia adding extra flights.
Friday, 1 July 2011
EU Mobile Phone costs drop again...
The European Union sometimes has a purpose - and it's regulating the costs of mobile phone costs is normally one of them.
The latest price cuts have gone into effect as of today, meaning the following:
The price changes above apply in the EU Zone only. Prices outside this zone (such as America, Asia, Africa) are subject to the normal rates as shown on the operator's web site.
Which give a new meaning to the word "extortion"
The latest price cuts have gone into effect as of today, meaning the following:
- Calls will cost no more than €0.35 (around 31p) per minute to make. This excludes VAT, down from €0.39.
- The maximum cost to receive calls will be €0.11 (around 10p). This is down from €0.15 per minute, excluding VAT.
- The price of sending a text will remain the same. It will cost no more than €0.11 (around 10p) per text, excluding VAT. Consumers cannot be charged to receive texts.
The price changes above apply in the EU Zone only. Prices outside this zone (such as America, Asia, Africa) are subject to the normal rates as shown on the operator's web site.
Which give a new meaning to the word "extortion"