Traffic figures for September released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) show continued robust growth in demand, but persistently soft air cargo market conditions. During the month, the region’s airlines recorded a solid 8.2 per cent growth in the number of international passengers carried to a total of 18.0 million compared to the
The US Federal Aviation Administration has approved passenger use of portable electronic devices – PEDS – in all phases of flight following the findings of the PED Aviation Rulemaking Committee which determined that most commercial airliners can tolerate radio interference signals from PEDs. The decision means passengers will be able to use devices such as smartphones,
AirAsia X operated its inaugural Kuala Lumpur-Adelaide service on October 31, marking the start of its year-round four-weekly schedule. The airline is the only one to offer a direct low-cost service between Malaysia and Adelaide. The airline said it has been encouraged by demand for the new route, with the inaugural flight operating at a
Qantas and Virgin Australia are engaged in a war of airport lounges, with Virgin Australia opening its new Sydney and Cairns lounges, while Qantas, not to be upstaged, previewed its new lounges in Hong Kong and Los Angeles. The flagship lounge stretches across two levels and can accommodate up to 500 guests, with design elements
Qantas has increased its stake in Jetstar Japan via an equity injection “to support the airline’s growth”. Both Qantas and Japan Airlines are injected a combined ¥11 billion (around A$120m) into Jetstar Japan via non-voting shares, taking their holdings in Jetstar Japan to 45.7 per cent each. Consequently, Mitsubishi Corporation and Century Tokyo Leasing’s shares will
Qatar Airways has officially joined oneworld, becoming the 13th airline to join the alliance and in the process adding 20 new destinations to the oneworld network. At a ceremony to mark its entry into the alliance, held at Hamad International Airport, which will soon open as Qatar Airways’ new home base, the airline unveiled the
