Economy Class & Beyond

European Commision formally objects to Ryanair’s takeover of Aer Lingus.

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In news that will make you go "oh really?", the European Commission has formally objected to Ryanair taking over Aer Lingus, and has lodged concerns over competition. Currently, a total of 40 routes are shared like for like by Aer Lingus and Ryanair - and are the only operators on that route (a good example is my local route to Dublin from Birmingham where Ryanair and Aer … [Read more...]

Boeing delivers its first 787 to LOT

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As Boeing 787s are making their way out to airlines at a reasonable rate, the first European Airlines to receive one has now been delivered to LOT Polish Airlines. LOT Polish Airlines 787 - Image: The Boeing Company. LOT are pretty excited about the 787, with Marcin Pirog, chief executive officer of LOT stating: "This is a historic moment for LOT" "I am convinced … [Read more...]

SAS in trouble: Wideroe for sale…

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It was well reported yesterday that SAS's future is bleak  with 6,000 jobs for the cut and a SEK3 Billion (or ~US$444 Million) costs savings plan. More details have emerged with the Norwegian regional airline - Wideroe now on the sale block too, along with SAS Ground Handling. SAS's CEO Rickard Gustafson says “We are facing a very serious situation. That is … [Read more...]

An intresting Alitalia offer

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Yes, I did promise a piece on Alitalia... and here it is They seem to have a reasonable offer on, called "MultiBonus", involving actual flying with up to 50% more miles per flight. Fly from 4 to 7 flight segments: you get 15% more miles Fly from 8 to 19 flight segments: you get 30% more miles Fly over 20 flight segments: you get 50% more miles. Offer runs until … [Read more...]

IAG takes a very hard look at Vueling – considering takeover

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For International Airlines Group, it's been a rather good year getting control of British Midland Airways in the United Kingdom. However, in Spain things have been a bit more fraught. The setting up of Iberia Express has caused a lot of friction between the management and the pilots and cabin crew. Well it looks like the management are looking for a way out - and its … [Read more...]

Virgin Atlantic to offer “Mile Booster”

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I don't write too often about Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, as to be honest its not an exciting programme. However, with the announcement today, it maybe a bit more interesting. Mile Booster is a simple enough product: Pay Virgin Atlantic more money Get 2x or 3x base mileage extra Also get 1000 points for each use. Miles Booster starts at £0.015 each mile, with a … [Read more...]

Fastjet readying to open its booking engine

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FastJet is preparing to launch, and has been busying unveiling its logo and a render of what its planes are going to look like Images - FastJet The branding features the African Grey Parrot - which according to FastJet's CEO Ed Winter "is renowned for its intelligence and is therefore a perfect personification of Fastjet’s motto—smart travel" Yes, it does … [Read more...]

London City Airport celebrates 25 years of operation

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London City Airport this week celebrated 25 years of operations its location, and has announced one heck of a major infrastructure upgrade. The upgrade valued at £15 million will involve: The refurbishment of the Western Pier, with new departure gates and improved lounge facilities re-development of the International Arrivals Hall enhancements to baggage handling … [Read more...]