United Continues Upgrades with New International Economy Meals, Complimentary Beer and Wine
CHICAGO, — United Airlines this spring will give United Economy customers on long-haul international flights an all-new, high-quality in-flight dining experience, designed to offer travelers flavorful, complimentary meals with more substantial portions, complimentary beer and wine and a new option to purchase premium snacks.
The airline will introduce this significantly upgraded food and beverage experience June 1 on trans-Atlantic flights; service between the United States and Argentina, Brazil and Chile; and most trans-Pacific flights.
New Multi-Course Meal Service
United will expand the primary complimentary economy meal to a hearty three-course service, beginning with a beverage and snack of cheese and crackers, baked whole-grain bruschetta chips or Kiri cheese spread and crackers, followed by a generous main course served with refreshed salads and artisan bread.
Main-course meals will include new dishes designed by United’s team of chefs, including:
Home-style turkey meatloaf in spicy barbecue sauce, served with sweet potato mash, mixed vegetables, an artisan ciabatta roll and amaranth mango salad;
Tuscan ravioli with roasted red pepper sauce, served with a petit artisan ciabatta roll and mixed-grain salad; and
Udon noodles with stir-fried vegetables and ginger soya sauce, served with a petit multi-grain baguette roll and apple wheatberry salad.
For the final course, customers may enjoy a premium dessert, such as gelato, sorbet, ice cream or mousse.
Complimentary Beer and Wine
United will offer beer and wine at no charge in United Economy on intercontinental flights with multi-course meal service, and each customer will receive a complimentary bottle of water to stay refreshed throughout their flight. Additionally, customers may purchase half-bottle premium wines, and United will continue to offer spirits for sale.
Choice Menu Snack Shop Expansion
The airline will also introduce snacks for purchase in United Economy on long-haul international services. Along with enjoying complimentary meals, customers will be able to purchase packaged snacks and snack boxes throughout their flights through the airline’s Choice Menu Snack Shop – currently available in United Economy on most North and Central America flights scheduled for more than two hours, flights to and from northern South America and service between Honolulu and Guam.
Pre-Arrival Service
Complimentary pre-arrival service will continue. Depending on the market flown, United Economy customers will receive a croissant with jam, a warmed sandwich or a hot meal served with fruit and a roll. On flights where a hot meal is available, new options, such as cinnamon-swirl French toast and a Tuscan skillet with scrambled eggs, will join current offerings.
“United is committed to improving every aspect of our customers’ experience on the ground, in the air and with every interaction,” said Sandra Pineau-Boddison, United’s senior vice president of customers. “The changes to come on June 1 will deliver an elevated onboard experience on many of our intercontinental flights and will offer travelers the high level of service they expect from a global airline.”
Customer Investments
The upcoming refresh is part of United’s ongoing investment in its customers’ travel experience from booking to arrival. The airline has also:
Revamped many of its largest airport terminals – including in Chicago, Houston, New York/Newark, San Francisco, Boston and London – to provide travelers a streamlined experience from the curb to the departure gate, along with new restaurants and modern gate areas with power outlets throughout;
Debuted an all-new complimentary food menu for United Clubs worldwide, with customers currently enjoying the new fresh and healthy options at locations in Chicago and Houston, expanding to Newark this month and other locations this year;
Introduced delicious new premium-cabin meals and snacks on flights within North America, and expanded premium-cabin meal service to include flights of at least 800 miles;
Replaced snack boxes with freshly prepared entrees served on chinaware, in premium cabins on United Express regional-jet service of at least 800 miles; and
Launched Goose Island Beer Company’s award-winning Goose IPA this month on flights worldwide. To celebrate, today United and Goose Island will offer complimentary Goose IPA to customers on seven domestic flights departing Chicago O’Hare International Airport and on one flight from United’s Houston hub to London.
About United
United Airlines and United Express operate an average of 5,055 flights a day to 373 airports across six continents. In 2014, United and United Express operated nearly two million flights carrying 138 million customers. United is proud to have the world’s most comprehensive route network, including U.S. mainland hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. United operates nearly 700 mainline aircraft, and this year, the airline anticipates taking delivery of 34 new Boeing aircraft, including the 787-9 and the 737-900ER. United is also welcoming 49 new Embraer E175 aircraft to United Express. The airline is a founding member of Star Alliance, which provides service to 193 countries via 27 member airlines. More than 84,000 United employees reside in every U.S. state and in countries around the world. For more information, visit united.com, follow @United on Twitter or connect on Facebook. The common stock of United’s parent, United Continental Holdings, Inc., is traded on the NYSE under the symbol UAL.
Virgin Atlantic To Launch Air4 Suite Of Passenger Service Systems In Partnership With Delta Air Lines

LONDON, April 13, 2015 – Virgin Atlantic has announced that it will move to AIR4, an innovative suite of passenger service systems (PSS). AIR4 offers reservation, ticketing and departure control functionality, as well as enhanced web, kiosk and mobile capabilities, featuring customer-centric options such as automated bag drop and disruption management.
The best-in-class suite of systems has been built on Delta’s proven PSS technology platform and has been selected by Virgin Atlantic following a thorough tender and evaluation process. AIR4’s implementation represents a step change in Virgin Atlantic’s technology portfolio and will cement the Virgin Atlantic/Delta joint venture as the most customer-focused transatlantic airline partnership, ensuring seamless experiences for both Delta and Virgin customers.
AIR4 (Access Information Real-time for Customers) will be fully distinct from Delta’s PSS but close alignment will allow Virgin Atlantic to benefit in full from Delta’s extensive development pipeline, creating huge opportunities for innovation and customer service improvement.
Virgin Atlantic Director of Network and Alliances Joe Thompson said:
“This is a further example of how our partnership with Delta Air Lines can bring extensive benefits both to our customers and to our business. AIR4 will significantly improve our customers’ experiences when booking and travelling with Virgin Atlantic across our network.
“By accessing Delta’s expertise and development plan we can build even better customer journeys, and offer an even more joined-up experience for customers travelling on our joint venture services.”
Delta’s Senior Vice President for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Perry Cantarutti added:
“Virgin Atlantic’s decision to use Delta’s core customer service technology platforms will simultaneously eliminate passenger experience seams and means that we can share long-term IT investments and direction which are key differentiators for our joint venture.”
The migration to AIR4 is scheduled for implementation in 2016
Customers wishing to book travel on Delta and Virgin Atlantic services can visit www.delta.com and www.virgin-atlantic.com or see their travel agent.
Notes to editors
Virgin Atlantic is migrating from its existing host system for reservations known as SHARES.
Work has already begun contacting Virgin Atlantic’s key trade and sales partners to explain the change of system, but it will not impact the way the airline works with its partners.
Delta is the only U.S. airline to directly control its critical technology systems making it possible to build the next generation of technology that will improve the travel experiences of customers.
About Delta and Virgin Atlantic:
Launched on January 1, 2014, the Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Airways joint venture partnership creates an expanded transatlantic route network, enhancing competition between the UK and North America. With up to 39 flights each way per day between the UK and 15 nonstop destinations in the United States and Mexico, the joint venture provides a premier service with the benefits of an aligned route network offering more frequencies, competitive fares and seamless service. The JV offers customers connecting in the United States simple and convenient access to and from 215 destinations, as well as frequent flyer reciprocity and global lounge access. For more information on the two carriers visit www.delta.com and www.virgin-atlantic.com
Lufthansa and Germanwings Appreciate Recovery Workers and Help In Investigation Process
Carsten Spohr, the Chairman of the Executive Board & CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG and Thomas Winkelmann, the CEO of Germanwings visited the recovery workers and local residents in Seyne-les-Alpes today and thanked them for all their help and support following the loss of Germanwings flight 4U 9525.
“We have the greatest respect for the dedication and the professionalism with which people are working here to investigate and process this tragedy,” Carsten Spohr said. “We appreciate the immense psychological and physical strain that these helpers are working under. We cannot thank them enough.” Mr. Spohr further extended his sincere gratitude to the investigating authorities, and to the local residents near the accident site.
“I would further like to mention the many helpers in Marseille, in Barcelona, in Düsseldorf, in Haltern and elsewhere,” added Thomas Winkelmann. “Volunteers from our own ranks are also supporting and caring for the bereaved. This is the least we can do at this time.”
Lufthansa and Germanwings continue to support the families and friends of the victims of flight 4U 9525 in every possible way. Immediately after the accident the companies provided help and care for the bereaved in Barcelona, Düsseldorf and Marseille. Since 28 March a Family Assistance Center (FAC) has been established in Marseille as a central provider of such care and support. A total of 90 personnel have been assigned to the FAC until further notice, to offer the bereaved personal comfort and care and to assist and accompany them, if they wish to visit the Seyne-les-Alpes accident area. To date more than 200 relatives and friends of the victims have been supported by the three care centers.
The co-pilot of Germanwings flight 4U9525 interrupted his pilot training at the Flight Training Pilot School for several months. Thereafter the co-pilot received the medical certificate confirming his fitness to fly.
To ensure a swift and seamless clarification, Lufthansa – after further internal investigations – has submitted additional documents to the Düsseldorf Public Prosecutor, particularly training and medical documents. These also include the email correspondence of the copilot with the Flight Training Pilot School. In this correspondence he informed the Flight Training Pilot School in 2009, in the medical documents he submitted in connection with resuming his flight training, about a “previous episode of severe depression”.
Lufthansa will continue to provide the investigating authorities with its full and unlimited support. We therefore ask for your understanding that we cannot provide any further statements at this time, because we do not wish to anticipate the ongoing investigation by the Düsseldorf Public Prosecutor.
As already confirmed last Thursday to the public the co-pilot held a fully valid class 1 medical certificate during flight duty on 24 March 2015.
After Crash That Kills 150 On Board, Germanwings Airlines To Adopt “Rule of Two” For Aircraft Cockpits
Germanwings announces with the deepest regret that, according to the information currently available, its Airbus A320 aircraft operating Flight 4U 9525 from Barcelona to Düsseldorf suffered an accident above the French Alps at around 11:00 local time today (Tuesday 24 March). According to current information, there were 144 passengers and six crew members on board.
Everyone at Germanwings and Lufthansa is deeply shocked and saddened by these events. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the passengers and the crew members.
In coordination with the Luftfahrtbundesamt (Germany’s aviation authority), the other German airlines and the German aviation industry association (Bundesverband der deutschen Luftverkehrswirtschaft), the airlines of the Lufthansa Group are to adopt a new cockpit occupancy procedure as a precautionary measure. Under the new procedure, two authorized persons must be present in the cockpit at all times during a flight.
The passenger airlines of the Lufthansa Group will adopt the new procedure as soon as possible, in due consultation with their national aviation authority.
The Lufthansa Group is also expanding its safety structures. In addition to the safety pilots at each of its member airlines, the new position of Group Safety Pilot has been created until further notice. The new post will be assumed with immediate effect by Captain Werner Maas, who will hold it in parallel with his current function as Safety Pilot of Deutsche Lufthansa AG. Captain Maas will have overarching groupwide responsibility for examining and further refining all flight safety-relevant procedures in his new capacity, in which he reports directly to Group CEO Carsten Spohr.
Federal Aviation Authority Streamlines Certification For Commercial Drones Weighing Under 55 pounds
The Federal Aviation Administration has established an interim policy to speed up airspace authorizations for certain commercial unmanned aircraft (UAS) operators who obtain Section 333 exemptions. The new policy helps bridge the gap between the past process, which evaluated every UAS operation individually, and future operations after we publish a final version of the proposed small UAS rule.
Under the new policy, the FAA will grant a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) for flights at or below 200 feet to any UAS operator with a Section 333 exemption for aircraft that weigh less than 55 pounds, operate during daytime Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions, operate within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the pilots, and stay certain distances away from airports or heliports:
5 nautical miles (NM) from an airport having an operational control tower; or
3 NM from an airport with a published instrument flight procedure, but not an operational tower; or
2 NM from an airport without a published instrument flight procedure or an operational tower; or
2 NM from a heliport with a published instrument flight procedure
The “blanket” 200-foot COA allows flights anywhere in the country except restricted airspace and other areas, such as major cities, where the FAA prohibits UAS operations. Previously, an operator had to apply for and receive a COA for a particular block of airspace, a process that can take 60 days. The agency expects the new policy will allow companies and individuals who want to use UAS within these limitations to start flying much more quickly than before.
Section 333 exemption holders will automatically receive a “blanket” 200 foot COA. For new exemption holders, the FAA will issue a COA at the time the exemption is approved. Anyone who wants to fly outside the blanket parameters must obtain a separate COA specific to the airspace required for that operation.
Federal Aviation Authority Approves Amazon’s Plan’s For Drone Trials
The Federal Aviation Administration today issued an experimental airworthiness certificate to an Amazon Logistics, Inc. unmanned aircraft (UAS) design that the company will use for research and development and crew training. The FAA typically issues experimental certificates to manufacturers and technology developers to operate a UAS that does not have a type certificate.
Under the provisions of the certificate, all flight operations must be conducted at 400 feet or below during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions. The UAS must always remain within visual line-of-sight of the pilot and observer. The pilot actually flying the aircraft must have at least a private pilot’s certificate and current medical certification.
The certificate also requires Amazon to provide monthly data to the FAA. The company must report the number of flights conducted, pilot duty time per flight, unusual hardware or software malfunctions, any deviations from air traffic controllers’ instructions, and any unintended loss of communication links. The FAA includes these reporting requirements in all UAS experimental airworthiness certificates.
New Airline in Malaysia, flymojo Executes Letter of Intent for up to 40 Bombardier CSeries Airliners
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and Fly Mojo Sdn Bhd announced today that the parties have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the sale and purchase of 20 CS100 aircraft with options for an additional 20 CS100 aircraft.
The announcement was made in parallel with the Government of Malaysia’s announcement at LIMA on a new airline, flymojo, which will be based out of Johor Bahru, Johor and Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Upon execution of a firm purchase agreement, flymojo is expected to become the first customer and operator of the CS100 aircraft in the region.
Based on the list price of the CS100 aircraft, a firm order would be valued at approximately $1.47 billion US, and could increase to $2.94 billion US, should flymojo exercise all its options.
At the LOI signing ceremony, flymojo was represented by Managing Director, Janardhanan Gopala Krishnan and Bombardier Commercial Aircraft by Regional Vice President, Sales, Asia-Pacific, Frank Baistrocchi.
In attendance were the Right Honorable Prime Minister of Malaysia, Najib Tun Razak, the Honorable Minister of Transport, Liow Tiong Lai, the Honorable Deputy Minister of Transport, Aziz Kaprawi, Canada’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, Her Excellency Judith St. George, flymojo Chairman, Alies Anor Abdul and Vice President, Sales, China and Asia-Pacific, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, Andy Solem.
“The announcement of a new airline in Malaysia is an exciting way to kick off LIMA. With flymojo’s primary hub at Senai International Airport, Johor and secondary hub in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, the airline’s ultra-modern fleet of CS100 aircraft will play a key role in improving connectivity between the Peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak, as well as other parts of the region,” said Deputy Minister of Transport, Aziz Kaprawi.
“In addition, as the only airline utilizing the Southern Corridor as its headquarters, flymojo will transform Senai into a key regional aviation and logistics hub – augmenting the government’s initiatives in developing Iskandar Malaysia and the Southern Corridor. Further strengthening Kota Kinabalu’s standing as a gateway into Malaysia, flymojo will also boost tourism into Sabah and Sarawak,” added Deputy Minister Aziz.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to congratulate Malaysia’s flymojo and Bombardier Commercial Aircraft as they work together to bring the CSeries aircraft to Malaysia and the ASEAN region,” said the Honorable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, Government of Canada. “As the travel needs in the region increase, Canada is committed to supporting the growth of economic ties between our two countries. As Minister of International Trade, I am pleased to see a Canadian company growing through exports, creating jobs and prosperity for all Canadians.”
“Born of the desire to make air travel a much-anticipated and longed for experience, flymojo is dedicated to providing value, and exceptional customer service that will focus on putting the human touch back into flying,” said flymojo Chairman, Alies Anor Abdul.
“We are confident that our model will resonate deeply with our passengers and that the use of the technologically advanced CSeries aircraft will transform the aviation industry in Malaysia and the region,” added Mr. Alies.
“With its strategic market footing and unique operations, flymojo is an ideal match for the all-new CS100 jetliner,” said Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “The CSeries family of aircraft will enable new airlines such as flymojo to cover markets efficiently thanks to its exceptional economics, operational flexibility and widebody comfort, coupled with an unmatched environmental and noise footprint.
“The CSeries family of aircraft’s game-changing technology, and its two models – the CS100 and CS300 jetliners — provide airlines the capability for natural progression in terms of market coverage and passenger capacity,” added Mr. Arcamone.
About CSeries aircraft
Bombardier is creating the future with its CSeries aircraft — the only 100 per cent-new family of airliners specifically designed for the100- to 149-seat, single-aisle market. Benefitting from a clean-sheet design that includes leading-edge technology and systems integration, advanced materials and latest generation aerodynamics, the CSeries aircraft offer a 15 per cent* cash operating cost advantage, a 20 per cent* fuel burn advantage, exceptional operational flexibility, widebody comfort and an unmatched environmental and noise footprint.
The CS100 aircraft offers unmatched flexibility for many airline business models and is an ideal solution for hot-and-high and city-centre airport operations.
Bombardier has booked orders and commitments for 603 CSeries aircraft, which include firm orders for 243 CSeries airliners.
About flymojo
flymojo, operated by Fly Mojo Sdn Bhd, is a new airline targeting the travel market within ASEAN and the regions bordering it. flymojo was born out of the desire to make air travel a much-anticipated and enjoyable experience. flymojo aims to deliver value and exceptional service to our customers, and to put the human touch back into flying. flymojo intends to set the standard in passenger comfort, on time performance, inflight entertainment and communication, as well as in delivery of seamless services. flymojo will operate out of its primary hub at Johor Bahru, Johor and secondary hub at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
About Bombardier
Bombardier is the world’s largest manufacturer of both planes and trains. Looking far ahead while delivering today, Bombardier is evolving mobility worldwide by answering the call for more efficient, sustainable and enjoyable transportation everywhere. Our vehicles, services and, most of all, our employees are what make us a global leader in transportation.
Bombardier is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. Our shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD) and we are listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America Indexes. In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, we posted revenues of US$20.1 billion. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.
Northrop Grumman Highlights New Air Traffic Control Communication Portfolio at World ATM Congress 2015
LONDON – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE:NOC) U.K.-based air traffic communication systems subsidiary, Northrop Grumman Park Air Systems, will be showcasing its new air traffic control (ATC) communications portfolio, Park Air Sapphire, at the air traffic management (ATM) exhibition and conference, World ATM Congress in Spain.
Park Air Sapphire is a solution-driven portfolio of products and services aimed at providing ATC communication systems with components designed to ensure ease of purchase, installation and maintenance.
The Park Air Sapphire portfolio will be on display in the Northrop Grumman exhibit, Stand 430 in Hall 9 where demonstrations will be available. The World ATM Congress takes place in Madrid from March 10-12.
“We are very proud of the Sapphire portfolio, and the launch year has been an exciting time for us,” said Charles Houseago, managing director, Northrop Grumman Park Air Systems. “We are confident that 2015 will see Sapphire rapidly become established as the ATC communication solution of choice.”
Included in the exhibit will be the new generation of the world’s most widely deployed ATC radio, the Park Air T6. The latest version of the T6 is a highly capable radio fully compliant with Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), and EUROCAE Interoperability Standards for VoIP ATM (ED-137). On display also will be the MARC Server, a highly configurable Internet browser-based control and monitoring system to monitor all the portfolio assets from desktops or tablets.
Also featured will be the company’s award-winning Airport Realtime Collaboration (ARC) software and services. ARC enables airports to capture, process and share crucial information across all of its stakeholders. Customers have achieved impressive results, from increasing the utilisation of existing infrastructure to reducing C02 emissions.
For those unable to attend the show who would like further information about Park Air Sapphire, an App for tablets is available that can be downloaded for free use from iTunes and Google Play.
Northrop Grumman Park Air Systems supplies communication systems for airspace operations worldwide.
Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in unmanned systems, cyber, C4ISR, and logistics and modernization to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.
American Airlines Welcomes First Boeing 787 Dreamliner – This will bring new benefits to American’s network
FORT WORTH, Texas, – American Airlines today officially welcomes its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner. American took delivery of the airplane, a 787-8 with registration number N800AN, on Thursday at Boeing’s factory in Everett, Washington, and it is scheduled to arrive in Dallas/Fort Worth on Friday afternoon.
American’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner departing on its maiden test flight on Jan. 6, 2015.
“We are committed to delivering a fantastic product for our customers with the continuation of our unprecedented fleet renewal program and more than $2 billion in improvements in the customer experience,” said Doug Parker, American’s chairman and CEO. “The 787 makes our fleet younger and more modern and it will open up new possibilities to connect our customers to the places they want to fly.”
“We’re proud that American Airlines has chosen the 787 to be a key part of its fleet renewal plan,” said Ray Conner, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We appreciate American’s confidence in the airplane and know the Dreamliner will open exciting new routes for American’s customers.”
American has placed firm orders for 42 Boeing 787 aircraft, with the right to acquire an additional 58. American will take delivery of both the 787-8 and 787-9 as part of the 42 firm orders. American expects its first 787 to enter revenue service in the second quarter, flying domestically between American’s hubs for several weeks before being launched on international flights.
The 787 will bring new benefits to American’s network and customers. It has an onboard experience unlike any other airplane and provides improved aerodynamics, advanced engine technology, reduced maintenance requirements, better fuel efficiency and lower overall operating costs.
American already has the youngest fleet of the U.S. global network carriers, with an average aircraft age of 12.3 years. In 2015, American plans to take delivery of an average of two new aircraft per week. These new deliveries will make American’s fleet even younger, more modern and more efficient and will provide a solid foundation for continued improvements in technology, products and services.
American is in the midst of more than $2 billion in planned improvements to give customers a superior travel experience around the world. These investments include fully lie-flat seats on international long-haul aircraft; international Wi-Fi; more in-flight entertainment options and power outlets; a new, modern design for Admirals Club lounges worldwide; and an upgraded assortment of complimentary healthy food, cocktails and more. In addition to taking delivery of hundreds of new planes, American is retrofitting its entire fleet of Boeing 777-200s and selected 767-300s, 757-200s and Airbus A319s to refresh the cabins and enhance the experience on domestic and international flights.
For more information on American’s fleet renewal efforts, visit aa.com/newplanes.
About American Airlines Group
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways. Together with wholly owned and third-party regional carriers operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to 339 destinations in 54 countries from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. The American Airlines AAdvantage and US Airways Dividend Miles programs allow members to earn miles for travel, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and everyday purchases. Members of both programs can redeem miles for tickets as well as upgrades to First Class and Business Class. In addition, AAdvantage members can redeem miles for vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and retail products. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines and follow US Airways on Twitter @USAirways.
PSA Airlines Continues Fleet Growth with Additional Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen Aircraft
DAYTON, Ohio – PSA Airlines has been selected by American Airlines to operate 24 new Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen aircraft. This aircraft assignment to PSA follows American exercising 24 of its 40 CRJ900 NextGen aircraft options. The options were originally acquired as part of American’s large regional jet order announced in December 2013.
“We are pleased to add these new aircraft to our growing fleet and see the award as a reflection of American’s continued confidence in PSA to provide friendly, reliable and cost-effective regional services for American’s customers,” said Dion Flannery, president of PSA Airlines. “We are proudly building, from a foundation of strength, one of the largest regional service providers for the world’s largest airline.”
PSA will induct the 24 additional CRJ900 NextGen aircraft beginning in November 2015, with all aircraft being received by August 2016. These modern and fuel-efficient aircraft will be operated under the American Eagle brand and will provide American’s customers with a seamless transition between mainline and regional flights. The CRJ900 NextGen aircraft offers modern cabin elements including oversized overhead bins, all-leather seating and inflight Wi-Fi. The 76-seat jet features a two-class configuration with 12 First Class, 36 Main Cabin Extra and 28 Main Cabin seats, allowing American to offer an unsurpassed regional customer experience in its most competitive markets.
“Having fostered a relationship that spans over 15 years, Bombardier is proud to once again stand alongside American and its regional subsidiary PSA Airlines as PSA prepares to integrate an additional 24 CRJ900 NextGen aircraft into its fleet – a move that will add another chapter to PSA’s rich aviation heritage,” said Mike Arcamone, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “We congratulate PSA on its recent successes and we are thrilled to see this award-winning airline reaching new heights with its CRJ900 NextGen aircraft – equipped with the latest enhancements allowing operational flexibility, best-in-class customer comfort along with significant operating cost savings.”
Since 2013, PSA has experienced significant fleet and job growth. During this time the carrier, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group operating an all Bombardier fleet, has announced the addition of these 24 CRJ900 NextGen aircraft, 30 previously announced CRJ900s NextGen aircraft and 47 CRJ700s. PSA’s fleet growth has resulted in more than 700 newly hired employees in the past year and a multitude of career and advancement opportunities for every workgroup. PSA’s pilot training program is recognized as one of the industry’s best, preparing crew members for a career with a rapidly expanding fleet of state-of-the-art regional jets. The company’s 1,900 employees currently operate nearly 400 daily flights to more than 80 destinations.
Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, PSA has flight crew bases located in Dayton, Knoxville, Tennessee, and Charlotte, North Carolina, and maintains maintenance facilities in Dayton and Akron/Canton, Ohio, as well Charlotte.
About American Airlines Group
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways and three wholly owned regional carriers, including PSA Airlines, Inc. Together with wholly owned and third-party regional carriers operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to 339 destinations in 54 countries from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. The American Airlines AAdvantage and US Airways Dividend Miles programs allow members to earn miles for travel, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and everyday purchases. Members of both programs can redeem miles for tickets as well as upgrades to First Class and Business Class. In addition, AAdvantage members can redeem miles for vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and retail products. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines.
American Airlines And Korean Air Announce Codeshare Agreement
FORT WORTH, Texas, – American Airlines and Korean Air have signed an agreement to begin codesharing. Pending regulatory approval, Korean Air will place its code on American Airlines flights between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul, South Korea.
“The new codeshare cooperation with Korean Air is an important milestone in growing our relationships with carriers around the globe to provide customers access to the destinations they value most,” said Kurt Stache, American’s senior vice president – Alliances and Partnerships. “This is the next step in strengthening our position in Asia, allowing us to win new customers in the region. We look forward to a strong relationship with Korean Air.”
“We look forward to a successful relationship with American Airlines,” said Yong Soon Park, Korean Air’s Senior Vice President of International Affairs and Alliance. “We are delighted with this partnership which will provide our customers with better access between Korea and the U.S. and to destinations throughout North, Central and South America.”
Once approved, the two carriers plan to sell codeshare flights for travel beginning in April 2015. The new agreement will allow Korean Air SKYPASS members to earn miles when traveling on American-operated flights between DFW and ICN.
American began serving Seoul in May 2013. Through American’s extensive network from Dallas/Fort Worth, customers traveling from South Korea have one-stop access to nearly 200 additional destinations throughout North America, the Caribbean and Latin America.
American’s route between DFW and Seoul is operated with a Boeing 777-200 aircraft. The airline is retrofitting all 47 of its 777-200s to refresh the cabins and enhance the premium experience on international flights. The retrofitted 777-200 features a Business Class product designed especially for American’s customers, with a fully lie-flat seat, direct aisle access and a private flying experience. The plane has a modern interior – including a walk-up bar – with unique lighting, a dramatic archway and a spacious look.
About American Airlines
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways. Together with wholly owned and third-party regional carriers operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to 339 destinations in 54 countries from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. The American Airlines AAdvantage and US Airways Dividend Miles programs allow members to earn miles for travel, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and everyday purchases. Members of both programs can redeem miles for tickets as well as upgrades to First Class and Business Class. In addition, AAdvantage members can redeem miles for vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and retail products. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines and follow US Airways on Twitter @USAirways.
About Korean Air
Korean Air, established in 1969, is one of the world’s top 20 airlines and carried more than 23 million passengers in 2013. Korean Air operates in excess of 430 flights per day to 126 cities in 45 countries on six continents with a fleet of 155 aircrafts including ten A380s. With its modern aircraft and over 20,000 professional employees, Korean Air offers customers safety, convenience and comfort. Korean Air’s award-winning offerings of Korean and Western meals and state-of-the-art inflight entertainment system provide passengers with a memorable inflight experience. The airline is a founding member of the Sky Team airline alliance which together with its 20 members, offers its 612 million annual passengers a worldwide system of more than 16,000 daily flights covering 1,052 destinations in 177 countries. Korean Air introduced the double-decker A380 aircraft to its fleet in 2011 and made the interior more spacious than any other airline, with just 407 seats spread across three classes, with the top deck dedicated to ‘Prestige’ business class. The design also features the world’s first onboard ‘Duty Free Showcase’ and three bar lounges. More on Korean Air’s programs, routes, frequencies and partners is available at www.koreanair.com.
Delta Employees Earn More than $1 Billion in Profit Sharing for 2014 Performance
ATLANTA, – Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) employees today will receive profit sharing as part of the company’s $1.1 billion total payout for 2014 – the largest payment in the company’s history – in recognition for their industry-leading performance.
Delta Air Lines and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to nearly 370 destinations on six continents. For more information visit news.delta.com.
“At Delta, we believe that people, values and culture drive our success,” said Richard Anderson, Delta’s chief executive officer. “We call it the ‘Delta Difference.’ It is essential for our employees to have an ownership stake in our business and share in the record-breaking achievements they helped create. Thank you to Delta’s 80,000 people worldwide, who made 2014 an exceptional year by taking great care of our customers.”
Total individual payouts will equal more than 16 percent of employees’ eligible 2014 earnings, which equates to an average of nearly two months’ salary. In October 2014, Delta paid a 5 percent advance on profit sharing to employees.
The 2014 payout is a record for the airline industry, and among the highest for any U.S. corporation.
In addition to profit sharing, Delta’s Shared Rewards program pays out monthly bonuses for meeting corporate operational goals throughout the year.
In 2014, Delta employees earned more than $84 million in Shared Rewards as the company achieved history-making operational and financial results. Delta has paid out $2.9 billion to employees in profit sharing and Shared Rewards during the past five years.
Delta employees will be honored for their record-breaking performance today at events held across its global network.
Delta Air Lines serves more than 170 million customers each year. Delta has ranked No.1 in the Business Travel News Annual Airline survey for four consecutive years, a first for any airline. Additionally, Delta was named to FORTUNE magazine’s top 50 Most Admired Companies in addition to being named the most admired airline for the third time in four years. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 326 destinations in 59 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs nearly 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. The airline is a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance and participates in the industry’s leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia as well as a newly formed joint venture with Virgin Atlantic. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 15,000 daily flights, with key hubs and markets including Amsterdam, Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York-JFK, New York-LaGuardia, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City, Seattle and Tokyo-Narita. Delta has invested billions of dollars in airport facilities, global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Additional information is available on delta.com, Twitter @Delta, Google.com/+Delta, Facebook.com/delta and Delta’s blog takingoff.delta.com.
Delta Air Lines, Ports Authority and JFK International Air Terminal Unveil Newest Expansion at Terminal 4
NEW YORK, – Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL), the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and JFK International Air Terminal LLC (JFKIAT) today unveiled the next phase of a Terminal 4 expansion at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The $175 million project adds 11 gates and 75,000 square feet to Terminal 4’s Concourse B and continues Delta’s $1.2 billion investment to enhance and expand the terminal.
Delta Air Lines and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to nearly 370 destinations on six continents. For more information visit news.delta.com.
“The newest enhancements at Terminal 4 underscore the significant investment Delta is making in New York City’s airports—nearly $2 billion over the last six years,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s president. “Our customers and employees are benefitting from substantial enhancements to our JFK operations, and we thank our partners at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFKIAT for working with Delta to create a world-class facility that meets—and, we believe, exceeds—the expectations of today’s modern travelers.”
Through this latest investment, Delta is significantly enhancing the customer experience at Terminal 4 and Terminal 2 by relocating a majority of its Delta Connection flights at JFK from Terminal 2 to the expanded Concourse B in Terminal 4. This will streamline travel for those with connecting flights at JFK and enhance access to amenities at both terminals.
“Delta’s Terminal 4 at JFK is a world-class entrance to the Big Apple, and with 11 brand-new gates and more area in the B Concourse, this expansion will further enhance visitors’ first impressions of this great city,” said Senator Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) “I applaud Delta for investing in this nearly $200 million job-creating expansion project, as well as the Port Authority and JFKIAT for their hard work in making this project a reality.”
The new gates at Terminal 4 will feature enclosed jet bridges and offer customers proximity to a flagship Sky Club and chef-driven restaurants. The expansion also facilitates intra-terminal connections with the addition of a new JFK Jitney bus stop at the end of Concourse B in Terminal 4 near the new gates. This will complement the existing stops located by gate B18 at the base of Concourse B in Terminal 4 and by gate C60 at Terminal 2.
“The Port Authority and our airline partners are committed to continuing our initiatives to transform and modernize JFK Airport into a world-class facility befitting the hundreds of thousands of people who fly in and out of our region each day,” said Port Authority Executive Director Pat Foye. “We applaud Delta’s investment in New York City’s airports to modernize and expand its terminal operations, and we will continue to work with all of our stakeholders to make sure JFK continues to serve as a premier source of job creation and economic activity.”
As a result of the expansion at Terminal 4, Delta customers at Terminal 2 will also enjoy an improved experience, as all Delta flights that will continue to operate there will use climate-controlled jet bridges. Customers will also have access to a renovated Sky Club, convenient iPad stations and a chef-driven food and beverage program featuring seven food and beverage concepts, fresh markets, coffee shops and concierge services. In Q2 2015, the Terminal 2 bus stop will be refreshed, with escalators and elevators installed.
“Delta’s ongoing investment at JFK helps ensure that Queens, New York, is the home of the world-class air travel experience that tens of millions of travelers expect and deserve,” said Representative Gregory W. Meeks (D-N.Y.). “This state-of-the-art expansion adds a welcome new dimension to JFK’s goal of delivering a modern, safe and enjoyable gateway for travel around the globe.”
“We applaud Delta’s continued commitment to one of the world’s busiest airports, which is also part of our own neighborhood in the city we’re proud to call home,” said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz.
The expanded Terminal 4—which JFKIAT has successfully operated for more than a decade—improves the customer experience for the 12 million passengers Delta serves at JFK annually. It also builds on Delta’s $1.2 billion redevelopment of Terminal 4, which opened in May 2013. That expansion featured nine new and seven renovated international gates; improved and renovated check-in areas, including a dedicated Sky Priority check-in area; a centralized security checkpoint; new dining and retail offerings; a new 24,000 square-foot flagship Delta Sky Club with the first-ever Sky Deck outdoor terrace; dual taxiways for less congestion and shorter taxi times; and improved Customs and Border Protection and baggage claim facilities.
“JFKIAT is pleased to join Delta to unveil the latest expansion at JFK Terminal 4,” said Gert-Jan de Graaff, president and CEO, JFKIAT. “We applaud the company’s commitment to develop an infrastructure at JFK that truly caters to the modern traveler.”
“Delta’s investments at JFK will increase capacity and improve the experience of millions of visitors—both of which will positively impact the city’s economy,” said Kyle Kimball, president of the New York City Economic Development Corporation. “We congratulate Delta, JFKIAT and the Port Authority on today’s expansion and look forward to their continued progress at the city’s airports.”
Over the last six years, Delta has invested nearly $2 billion in New York City’s airports, leading the way in improving the traveler experience by bringing state-of-the-art technology, award-winning chefs and exceptional customer service to New York passengers.
About Delta in New York
Delta Air Lines is New York City’s largest and fastest-growing carrier with 460 peak-day departures to more than 110 destinations worldwide from its hubs at New York’s LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport – including more destinations from New York State than any other airline as well as nonstop service to five continents. Delta’s Terminal 4 at JFK, a $1.2 billion state-of-the-art international gateway, opened in May 2013; a $175 million second-phase extension of 11 new gates opened in January 2015. The airline has also invested more than $160 million to expand and update Terminals C and D at LaGuardia. Product investments include flat-bed seats in the premium cabin on all widebody international flights as well as on eight daily flights between New York-JFK and Los Angeles International Airport. Aircraft with flat-bed seats will be introduced on flights between New York-JFK and San Francisco by summer 2015. Additionally, the unique Delta Shuttle product offers the only hourly service from New York-LGA to Boston, Chicago O’Hare and Washington D.C. Delta’s three metropolitan-area airports carried 23.6 million domestic and international passengers in 2013, up from 22.1 million passengers in 2012. Delta and its nearly 10,000 New York-based employees are part of the fabric of the New York community, acting as the official airline of the Yankees, Mets, Knicks, Rangers, Madison Square Garden, Food Bank for New York City, New York Wine and Food and amfAR, among many others.
About Delta
Delta Air Lines serves more than 170 million customers each year. Delta has ranked No.1 in the Business Travel News Annual Airline survey for four consecutive years, a first for any airline. Additionally, Delta was named the 2014 Airline of the Year by Air Transport World magazine and was named to FORTUNE magazine’s top 50 Most Admired Companies in addition to being named the most admired airline for the third time in four years. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 327 destinations in 59 countries on six continents. Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs nearly 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. The airline is a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance and participates in the industry’s leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia as well as a newly formed joint venture with Virgin Atlantic. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 15,000 daily flights, with key hubs and markets including Amsterdam, Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York-JFK, New York-LaGuardia, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City, Seattle and Tokyo-Narita. Delta has invested billions of dollars in airport facilities, global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Additional information is available on delta.com, Twitter @Delta, Google.com/+Delta, Facebook.com/delta and Delta’s blog takingoff.delta.com.
About JFKIAT
JFKIAT, LLC is the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport, one of the most active air terminals in the New York area, serving 31 international and domestic airlines with an annual passenger volume of more than 17.1 million travelers in 2014. With an expansion completed in 2014, passengers traveling through Terminal 4 can visit an outstanding selection of new and upgraded restaurants and bars, including world-class eateries, well-known casual dining, healthy options, and food-to-go. Terminal 4’s expansive shopping mall offers an unparalleled shopping experience for travelers with a wide range of retail options including upscale boutiques, convenience stores, electronics, accessories and gifts. Terminal 4 is the only air terminal in North America operated by a private management company. JFKIAT, LLC is owned by Schiphol USA Inc., a U.S. affiliate of Schiphol Group. Visit us at www.jfkiat.com.
American Airlines Launches American Way Magazine with New Look and More Content
FORT WORTH, Texas – American Airlines is refreshing the look and expanding the reach of its flagship in-flight magazine, American Way. Starting with the January issue which features the Foo Fighters on the cover, the redesigned publication appears on all flights operated by US Airways as well as American. American Way reaches 193 million people annually.
“The revitalized American Way comes as American makes a huge investment in the customer experience with improvements to our aircraft, our lounges and the airports we serve,” says Fernand Fernandez, vice president – Global Marketing, American Airlines. “We’re excited about what’s ahead for the magazine. Its fresh approach appeals to a wide range of our customers who love to see the world from a variety of perspectives.”
American in September announced its partnership with global travel media company Ink to re-launch the monthly magazine with a mix of entertaining and informative content and a fresh eye on design. The January magazine launches with a double cover edition featuring rock star David Grohl and the band Foo Fighters.
American Way’s updated look includes new sections such as POV, in which the magazine’s writers and editors offer their opinions of cultural, lifestyle and travel trends. Another new section, Maps & Legends, each month will reveal a writer’s unique look at a travel-related topic. The inaugural section features the best BBQ joints in Texas according to a bona fide aficionado – the Barbecue Editor of Texas Monthly.
Ink has also brought American Way into the digital age so that fans can read its award-winning content via mobile devices whether they’re relaxing during a flight or reading on the ground.
The digital expansion includes a revamped americanway.com website as well as a first-ever American Way mobile app, both of which let readers share select content via Facebook, Twitter, email and other options.
“We are honored to be launching the new edition of American Way magazine,” says Marisa Beazel, vice president – Publishing, Ink, which creates award-winning media and builds innovative technology for airlines and rail partners. “Millions of loyal customers every week will sit back, relax, enjoy a good read and browse through a great lifestyle magazine – be it to learn something new, plan their next trip or be inspired to make a new purchase. With more editorial features than ever before, American Way unlocks one of the strongest markets available to the world’s advertisers. This new edition of the magazine marks yet another great moment for American.”
Though American Way will have a different look and feel to it, longtime magazine fans will still find their favorite features.
“Air Mail,” the popular collection of readers’ letters to the editor, for example, will remain a key component in the front of the magazine. Fans will also still find the Sudoku and the crossword puzzles.
In addition to American Way, American will soon introduce the updated versions of its two other magazine titles: Nexos, the bimonthly airline magazine written in Spanish and Portuguese, and Celebrated Living, the industry’s first quarterly publication for premium cabin customers. The new issues of the redesigned publications will begin appearing on flights in February and March, respectively.
About American Airlines Group
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways. Together with wholly owned and third-party regional carriers operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to 339 destinations in 54 countries from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. The American Airlines AAdvantage and US Airways Dividend Miles programs allow members to earn miles for travel, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and everyday purchases. Members of both programs can redeem miles for tickets as well as upgrades to First Class and Business Class. In addition, AAdvantage members can redeem miles for vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and retail products. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines and follow US Airways on Twitter @USAirways.
European Commission Orders Cyprus to Recover Incompatible Aid from National Air Carrier Cyprus Airways
Following an in-depth investigation, the European Commission has concluded that a restructuring aid package of over €100 million for Cyprus’ ailing flag carrier Cyprus Airways gave the company an undue advantage over its competitors in breach of EU state aid rules. Cyprus Airways therefore needs to pay back all incompatible aid received, which according to the Commission’s information amounts to over €65 million plus interest. In particular, the Commission found that Cyprus Airways had no realistic perspective of becoming viable without continued state subsidies.
Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “Cyprus Airways has received large quantities of public money since 2007 but was unable to restructure and become viable without continued state support. Therefore, injecting additional public money would only have prolonged the struggle without achieving a turn-around. Companies need to be profitable based on own merits and their ability to compete and cannot and should not rely on taxpayer money to stay in the market artificially.”
The Commission found that Cyprus Airways had been in economic difficulties for many years and repeatedly benefitted from public support measures (for full details, see Chronology below):
In September 2007, the Commission authorised a restructuring aid package worth €95 million in favour of Cyprus Airways.
In December 2012, Cyprus notified to the Commission €73 million rescue aid for the airline. Several tranches of this loan amounting to in total €34.5 million were paid out in breach of Cyprus’ obligation to await the result of the Commission’s state aid scrutiny. In 2012, Cyprus also granted a capital injection worth €31.3 million to Cyprus Airways. The Commission opened an in-depth investigation into this measure and the 2012 capital injection in March 2013.
In October 2013, Cyprus notified to the Commission a €102.9 million aid package to restructure Cyprus Airways. The package included the €31.3 million capital injection mentioned above, a conversion of debts into equity amounting to €63 million and €8.6 million to cover the deficit of the company’s Provident Fund, an employee benefit scheme. The Commission opened an in-depth investigation in February 2014 to assess the measures.
Under the applicable EU guidelines on the rescue and restructuring of companies in difficulty, a company can only receive restructuring aid once over a period of ten years (“one time, last time” principle). This is to avoid that market players rely on public money instead of running an effective business and competing on the merits. Cyprus has provided no evidence that Cyprus Airways faced exceptional and unforeseeable circumstances that would justify an exemption from this principle.
The Commission also found that Cyprus Airways’ restructuring plan is based on unrealistic assumptions and does not sufficiently reflect different market scenarios.The proposed restructuring measures do not appear appropriate to address the circumstances that led to Cyprus Airways’ difficulties. Moreover, the proposed restructuring period is longer than what the Commission has authorised in other airline restructuring cases.
Finally, in order to avoid the moral hazard of bailing out inefficient players with taxpayer money, under EU state aid rules any company that receives restructuring aid has to sufficiently contribute itself to the cost of restructuring. The Commission found that Cyprus Airways’ own contribution is significantly below the level of 50% required by the guidelines.
For all these reasons, the Commission concluded that Cyprus Airways was unable to become viable in the long term without continued state support.
The repeated public support measures have already procured a considerable economic advantage to the airline that its competitors, who had to operate without such public money, did not have. In order to remedy this distortion of competition, Cyprus Airways now needs to return the aid received to Cypriot taxpayers. This will re-establish the situation that existed on the market prior to the granting of the aid, thereby cancelling out or at least alleviating the distortion of competition brought about by the aid. This is necessary to ensure a level-playing field in the internal market. The Commission’s recovery policy is set out in its 2007 Recovery Notice.
Chronology
September 2007
Commission authorised restructuring aid package of €95 million for Cyprus Airways.
2010-2011
Cyprus Airways received €269 000 training aid under the exemption regime for unproblematic support measures.
February 2012
The Commission started a preliminary investigation when it learned from press reports that a capital increase was planned for Cyprus Airways.
September – December 2012
Cyprus injected capital worth €31.3 million into the airline.
December 2012
Cyprus notified €73 million rescue aid for the airline. Several tranches of this loan – in total €34.5 million – were paid out between January and July 2013, in breach of Cyprus’ obligation to await the result of the Commission’s state aid scrutiny.
March 2013
The Commission opened an in-depth investigation into the €73 million rescue aid package and the €31.3 million capital injection.
October 2013
Cyprus notified a €102.9 million aid package to restructure Cyprus Airways for state aid clearance. The package covered the €31.3 million capital injection already granted in 2012, a conversion of debts into equity amounting to €63 million and €8.6 million to cover the deficit of the company’s Provident Fund, a benefit scheme for the Cyprus-based employees (excluding pilots), financed through contributions from the employees and Cyprus Airways.
February 2014
The Commission opened an in-depth investigation to assess the restructuring aid package.
Background
Cyprus Airways is the Cypriot flag carrier and 93.67% owned by the Cypriot State. Cyprus Airways has been in financial difficulty since 2009.
In recent years, the Commission has conducted a number of in-depth investigations concerning airlines restructuring. In the majority of cases, the relevant measures either involved no state aid (e.g. SAS Scandinavian Airlines) or were in line with the guidelines (e.g. Adria Airways, airBaltic, LOT airlines, Air Malta and Czech Airlines). However, in January 2012, the Commission found that the restructuring plan of Malév was not suitable for making the company viable in the long term and ordered Hungary to recover the undue advantage granted to the company through repeated public support measures. The Commission has also published a policy brief on state aid granted to airlines in difficulty.
The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.37220 in the State Aid Register on the competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved. New publications of state aid decisions on the internet and in the Official Journal are listed in the State Aid Weekly e-News.
United Airlines Launches In-flight Wi-Fi on Regional Jet Service
CHICAGO, — United Airlines has expanded Wi-Fi to the first of its United Express regional aircraft, enabling more customers to stay connected in flight during their journeys.
The airline will outfit more than 200 E175, E170 and CRJ700 regional jets with Gogo’s ATG-4 advanced air-to-ground Wi-Fi product. By mid-2015, United expects to complete installation on nearly all these aircraft.
Additionally, the company will begin providing Personal Device Entertainment on regional jets this year, offering customers hundreds of complimentary movies and television shows to view on their Wi-Fi-enabled iOS and Android devices using United’s mobile app, as well as on laptop computers.
“Expanding in-flight connectivity and personal device programming aligns the customer experience on our regional jets with our mainline aircraft and will enable many more of our customers to enjoy Internet access and streaming entertainment on their personal devices when traveling with us,” said Tom O’Toole, United’s senior vice president of marketing and loyalty and president of MileagePlus.
United Wi-Fi and Personal Device Entertainment
United’s regional jet Wi-Fi installations begin as the airline continues to outfit its mainline fleet with Wi-Fi, which the carrier currently offers on nearly three-quarters of its domestic mainline fleet. United also operates more international aircraft with Wi-Fi than any other U.S. airline.
The company has installed Personal Device Entertainment on nearly 200 mainline aircraft, including its entire Boeing 747, Airbus A319 and A320 fleets and its nine Boeing 777 aircraft that fly primarily between the continental United States and Hawaii.
Regional Service Upgrades
In addition to Wi-Fi and Personal Device Entertainment, United is further investing in its customers’ regional-jet experience, including:
Adding 120 E175 aircraft to the regional fleet, each offering wider seats and aisles than other regional aircraft, large overhead bins and a power outlet at each United First seat; and
Upgrading premium-cabin meal service on United Express this spring by replacing snack boxes with freshly prepared food on flights that are more than 2 hours and 20 minutes, or 800 miles.
About United
United Airlines and United Express operate an average of 5,055 flights a day to 373 airports across six continents. In 2014, United and United Express operated nearly two million flights carrying 138 million customers. United is proud to have the world’s most comprehensive route network, including U.S. mainland hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. United operates more than 700 mainline aircraft, and this year, the airline anticipates taking delivery of 34 new Boeing aircraft, including the 787-9 and the 737-900ER. United is also welcoming 50 new Embraer 175 aircraft to United Express. The airline is a founding member of Star Alliance, which provides service to 193 countries via 27 member airlines. More than 85,000 United employees reside in every U.S. state and in countries around the world. For more information, visit united.com, follow @United on Twitter or connect on Facebook. The common stock of United’s parent, United Continental Holdings, Inc., is traded on the NYSE under the symbol UAL.
Southwest Airlines Celebrates Final Scheduled AirTran Airways Flight
Southwest Airlines® (NYSE: LUV) embarked on a new era today as it celebrated the last AirTran Airways revenue flight. At 10:25pm EST, AirTran Airways Flight 1 departed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Tampa Bay International Airport.
“With this special flight, we are celebrating history and setting our sights on a bright future for all of Southwest Airlines,” said Bob Jordan, Southwest Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer and AirTran Airways President, who was on the flight to Tampa. “The work of so many People culminates in this moment as we salute the enormous accomplishments of AirTran and Southwest. For our Customers and Employees, we now move forward with one airline, one Customer Experience, one flight schedule, one Rapid Rewards frequent flyer program, and one award-winning Brand.”
More than 400 AirTran and Southwest Employees and special guests gathered in Atlanta Sunday evening to commemorate the milestone. AirTran Flight 1 retraced a route that is a nod to AirTran’s first commercial flight in October 1993. Flight 1’s flight crew consisted of longtime AirTran Employees, including the airline’s Chief Pilot, Floy Ponder, a 19-year veteran of AirTran Airways. Each of the flight’s 117 passengers, consisting of many former AirTran Employees, retirees, special guests, and aviation enthusiasts received a special keepsake celebrating the historic flight.
“As we’ve grown in both the domestic and international markets, I can’t help but think about all the doors the AirTran acquisition has opened for Southwest Airlines,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chairman, President & CEO, who was in Atlanta for the send-off. “The most important things—which cannot be measured and are irreplaceable—are the great People of AirTran who have worked hard to achieve this milestone, and are all soon to be part of the Southwest Airlines family.”
The acquisition of AirTran was a unique opportunity to extend the Southwest network into key markets it didn’t yet serve, such as Atlanta and the greater Washington, D.C., area, via Ronald Reagan National Airport. The integration gives Southwest the opportunity to serve Customers from 93 airports in the U.S. and near-international destinations, providing Customers more low-fare destinations as it expands the well-known “Southwest Effect” to hundreds of additional low-fare itineraries for the traveling public.
Southwest Airlines acquired AirTran Airways in 2011. Visit the Southwest Newsroom at www.swamedia.com to download broadcast quality video and interviews plus high-resolution stills from today’s celebration.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.
In its 44th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by nearly 46,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest and wholly owned subsidiary AirTran Airways operate more than 3,400 flights a day, serving 93 destinations across the United States and five additional countries. Subject to government approvals, Southwest service to San Jose, Costa Rica (from Baltimore/Washington), begins in March 2015; service to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (from Orange County/Santa Ana), begins in June 2015; and service to Belize City, Belize begins in October 2015 (from Houston (Hobby).
Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate to gate connectivity while over the United States. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to access streaming music provided by Beats Music or to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of DISH. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer Bags Fly Free® (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply), and there are never change fees, although fare differences might apply. In September 2014, the airline proudly unveiled Heart, a new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcasing the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what’s important in their lives.
From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as “The Southwest Effect,” a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic wherever the carrier serves. With 41 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier’s performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2013 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at Southwest.com/citizenship.
Raytheon to Implement Modernized Air Traffic Control System Throughout the National Air Space
MARLBOROUGH, Mass., — Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has been awarded a $350 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) contract modification to continue the upgrade of 135 air traffic control centers to the Standard Terminal Automation System (STARS) through September 2017. Implementation of STARS at these airports will bring all of the largest airports and the majority (90%+) of all Terminal air space controlled by the FAA onto the NextGen terminal automation platform.
“STARS is now operating at 150 FAA and DoD terminal air traffic control facilities and the performance of the system has been exceptional,” said Michael Espinola, managing director, Raytheon Air Traffic Systems. “STARS is the foundation for numerous NextGen efforts within the National Air Space.”
STARS is implemented under the FAA’s Terminal Automation Modernization and Replacement program. STARS brings the terminal automation program into a single operational baseline. This cohesive approach eases the implementation of potential future NextGen initiatives that are designed to maintain safety and bring efficiencies to an increasingly congested NAS.
STARS is a standard system used by both the FAA and the Department of Defense. It replaces several generations and versions of existing terminal automation systems providing substantial savings in lifecycle costs. The system brings additional safety and capacity management features to terminal automation in both the commercial and defense sectors.
For more than 60 years Raytheon has provided air traffic management technology, products and services to civil and military customers around the world. Raytheon’s ATM solutions operate in more than 60 countries, and monitor more than 60 percent of the world’s airspace.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2013 sales of $24 billion and 63,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, security and civil markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 92 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as cyber security and a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. For more about Raytheon, visit us at www.raytheon.com
American Airlines and Interjet Announce Codeshare Agreement – Expanding American Airlines Network in Mexico
FORT WORTH, Texas, – American Airlines has signed a codeshare agreement with Mexico City-based Interjet, adding new service to key destinations in Mexico.
The new codeshare arrangement with Interjet will give American Airlines customers seamless connecting service within Mexico. American will codeshare on Interjet flights from Mexico City to five key destinations – Huatulco, Villahermosa, Merida, Tuxtla Gutierrez, and Oaxaca. American and Interjet will submit an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation for regulatory approval of the proposed codeshare cooperation.
“We are excited about offering new destinations in Mexico,” said Kurt Stache, American’s Senior Vice President – Alliances and Partnerships. “This new codeshare relationship with Interjet strengthens our presence in this important and growing market.”
Over the past few years Interjet has grown substantially and operates more than 1,800 weekly flights to 38 cities throughout Mexico as well as destinations in the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean.
“We’re excited about this new partnership with American Airlines,” said José Luis Garza, Interjet’s CEO. “We’re proud to be the airline that will open these new destinations in Mexico for American Airlines customers.”
The new agreement allows AAdvantage® members to earn miles on codeshared flights operated by Interjet.
American has proudly served Mexico for more than 72 years and currently operates up to 115 daily flights to 20 destinations in the country from Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia and Phoenix.
American provides more service than any other airline between the United States and Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean.
About American Airlines Group
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways. Together with wholly owned and third-party regional carriers operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to 339 destinations in 54 countries from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. The American Airlines AAdvantage and US Airways Dividend Miles programs allow members to earn miles for travel, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and everyday purchases. Members of both programs can redeem miles for tickets as well as upgrades to First Class and Business Class. In addition, AAdvantage members can redeem miles for vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and retail products. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines and follow US Airways on Twitter @USAirways
American Airlines To Add Inflight Internet Access To Nearly 250 Regional Jets
FORT WORTH, Texas – As a part of its $2 billion investment to give customers a world-class travel experience, American Airlines will upgrade its regional fleet by adding Gogo inflight wireless services to all two-class regional jets. Nearly 250 of American’s regional aircraft will have inflight wireless Internet service installed by 2016. With this installation, the world’s largest airline will have the largest fleet of connected regional jets.
“We’re investing in a more competitive and consistent customer experience across our regional, domestic and international network,” said Andrew Nocella, American’s chief marketing officer. “Adding inflight Wi-Fi to our two-class regional jets will give our customers what they want – comfort, connectivity and a world-class travel experience. We have new regional aircraft entering our fleet every month, and combined with the amenities and services we’re adding to our existing fleet, American is going to deliver a regional product that’s better than our competitors.”
American currently has nearly 850 aircraft with Gogo services and leverages Gogo’s air-to-ground (ATG) service and its next generation ATG-4 technology. Approximately 70 of these 850 aircraft are two-class regional jets.
“As the first airline to offer our inflight Wi-Fi, American knows customers value being able to remain connected and entertained while flying,” said Michael Small, Gogo’s president and CEO. “We’re excited be a part of American’s efforts to enhance the customer experience by expanding our connectivity services to more of its regional aircraft.”
Having ordered more than 500 new aircraft – with nearly two planes arriving each week through 2016 – American will offer customers the youngest fleet of any U.S.-based network carrier. New aircraft deliveries include 90 large regional jets, the Embraer 175 and Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen. These modern and fuel-efficient 76-seat jets provide customers with a top-tier regional product with First Class, Main Cabin Extra and Main Cabin seating, larger overhead bins, more spacious lavatories and leather seats with adjustable headrests.
The American Eagle and US Airways Express regional networks operate about 2,600 daily flights for American Airlines and US Airways, respectively. These flights serve 240 destinations throughout the United States, Canada, the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Mexico. Eventually all regional service will be operated under the American Eagle brand and livery.
American marked the one-year anniversary of its merger earlier this week by announcing more than $2 billion in investments to give its customers a world-class travel experience. These investments include expanding inflight entertainment and connectivity. The airline is adding satellite-based Internet access to its international fleet including all Boeing 777s and 787s, Airbus A330s, and retrofitted Boeing 767-300s and 757s. New 737s, nearly all new A321s, as well as retrofitted A319s also will have power ports in every row. All new widebody deliveries, including 777-300ERs and 787s, come with power at every seat, allowing customers to charge their laptops and personal electronic devices from gate to gate. American also will be investing in fully lie-flat seats, more inflight entertainment options, a new, modern design for Admirals Club lounges worldwide, and an upgraded assortment of complimentary healthy food, cocktails and more.
About American Airlines Group
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways. Together with wholly owned and third-party regional carriers operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to 339 destinations in 54 countries from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. The American Airlines AAdvantage and US Airways Dividend Miles programs allow members to earn miles for travel, vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and everyday purchases. Members of both programs can redeem miles for tickets as well as upgrades to First Class and Business Class. In addition, AAdvantage members can redeem miles for vacation packages, car rentals, hotel stays and retail products. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines and follow US Airways on Twitter @USAirways.
About Gogo
Gogo (NASDAQ: GOGO) is a leading global aero-communications service provider that offers inflight Internet, entertainment, text messaging, voice and a host of other communications-related services to the commercial and business aviation markets. Gogo has more than 2,000 commercial aircraft equipped with its services on more than 10 major airlines. More than 7,000 business aircraft are also flying with its solutions, including the world’s largest fractional ownership fleets. Gogo also is a factory option at every major business aircraft manufacturer.
Gogo has more than 800 employees and is headquartered in Itasca, IL, with additional facilities in Broomfield, CO, and various locations overseas. Connect with us at www.gogoair.com and www.business.gogoair.com.