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January 9th, 2024

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Today's Top Stories

JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes to step down in February

JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes will step down next month, and COO Joanna Geraghty will assume the role, making her the first woman to lead a major U.S. carrier. The move comes as JetBlue pursues the acquisition of budget carrier Spirit Airlines, a nearly $4 billion deal currently facing a legal challenge from the U.S. Department of Justice. Hayes, citing the high-pressure nature of the job, will retire for health reasons, staying on the board until February 12. Geraghty, with two decades at JetBlue, will be tasked with overseeing the airline's operations and the potential Spirit merger.

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United, Alaska find loose hardware on jets amid 737 Max 9 probe

Both Alaska and United Airlines discovered issues with door plugs on their Boeing 737 Max 9 jets following a recent fuselage blowout incident on an Alaska flight. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the matter, revealing findings of "loose hardware" in Alaska's case and loose bolts in United's. The NTSB highlighted potential hardware failure leading to the door plug dislodgment, causing explosive decompression. The investigation also focused on a warning light indicating pressurization issues on the aircraft and the erasure of the cockpit voice recorder.

LA Times | Related

Working iPhone found on side of road ‘likely’ fell from Alaska Airlines flight - Guardian

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British Airways increases minimum connection time At London Heathrow

British Airways has extended the minimum connection time at London Heathrow from 60 to 75 minutes, effective from January 9. The adjustment aims to reduce missed flights and enhance the passenger experience. Passengers transferring between Terminals 3 and 5 will maintain a 90-minute minimum connection time, necessitating a bus transfer. The decision is driven by the desire for a more relaxed experience and to alleviate the financial burden of missed flights. However, critics argue that the change might disadvantage British Airways compared to other European hub airlines, which offer shorter international-to-international connection times.

Simple Flying | Related

Heathrow slowdown as British Airways lengthens connection times - The Independent

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Emirates ramps up its vegan menu

Emirates is enhancing its plant-based culinary offerings with the introduction of new vegan dishes onboard and in lounges. As demand for plant-based cuisine grows, the airline plans to expand its 'vegan vault' to include more than 300 curated plant-based recipes. In 2023, Emirates served over 450,000 plant-based meals, a significant increase from 2022, with vegan meal consumption rising 40% YoY. The vegan options span all classes, featuring dishes like jackfruit curry, tofu tikka masala, and creamy polenta cake. The airline incorporates high-quality vegan ingredients from around the world, including Beyond Meat, soybean protein, and more.

Times Aerospace | Related

Emirates reveals its ‘vegan vault’ of 300 recipes as demand for plant-based cuisine increases by 40% - Emirates

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Cathay Pacific needs to address capacity issues, Hong Kong leader says

Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways is facing capacity challenges, prompting plans to cut a dozen daily flights until February's end. Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, expressed concern, emphasizing the need for Cathay to address the issue seriously, asserting the government's involvement in minimizing passenger inconveniences. The Hong Kong Aircrew Officers Association, representing pilots, called for a government inquiry, attributing current problems to decisions made by Cathay's management in 2020, which led to cancellations and chronic staff shortages. Despite Cathay's earlier plan to recruit 5,000 staff in 2024, the pilot union notes a substantial reduction in pilots since the pandemic.

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"Virtual humans" feature in new Korean Air safety video

Korean Air has introduced a new inflight safety video featuring virtual humans, which it says is a first in the airline industry. The video showcases a virtual human, Rina, in a flight attendant uniform, providing safety instructions within a virtual setting. This approach aims to engage passengers of all ages and backgrounds. The virtual space, named the 'Korean Air Safety Lounge,' simplifies the explanation of inflight safety rules. Rina, a virtual human trained at Korean Air’s Cabin Crew Training Centre, and the virtual girl group MAVE enhance the video's visual appeal. The airline says that the initiative reflects Korean Air's commitment to inflight safety and delivering a unique customer experience.

Runway Girl | Related Korean Air releases a new safety video featuring virtual humans - Breaking Travel News

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Why Edinburgh Airport Is Worth $3 Billion

Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) has put Edinburgh Airport up for sale, expecting interest from global investors. GIP, which has owned the airport for 12 years, recently initiated renovations, enhancing facilities and retail space. The sale, set to begin in the next six months, is estimated to surpass $3 billion (£2.5 billion). HSBC and JP Morgan have been enlisted for the sale process. Renovations have expanded retail space, improved the overall passenger experience, and increased connectivity. The airport's proximity to the Scottish capital's corporate community, coupled with a surge in passenger numbers and strategic airline operations, enhances its appeal for potential buyers.

Simple Flying | Related

Edinburgh Airport owners pick banks to take flight with £2.5bn sale - Sky News

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today’s picture comes from @speedbirduk, showing a British Airways A380 about to land at London Heathrow Airport Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

Ready to revolutionize your content game? Join us at #APEXTECH, February 28-29, in Los Angeles, to unlock the secrets to curating the BEST personalized media content offering. Register ➡️ http://bit.ly/3yKIZkn #PaxEx #Aviation

APEX @theAPEXassoc

Association News

NEW Online APEX Merchandise Store

We are thrilled to announce the launch of an online APEX Store. ‘Tis the season of giving, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than treating your colleagues and team to a gift from the APEX Store. You can find the perfect holiday gift and show your support for your APEX community. Start Shopping.

APEX TECH | 28-29 February 2024 | Los Angeles, CA, USA

Come embark on a journey to explore the latest advancements and innovations in the world of Inflight Connectivity, Media Content and Supply Chain, Data Capture and Intelligence, and Ancillary and Passenger Experience Use. Join us at 2024 APEX TECH, 28-29 February, in Los Angeles, CA, and learn from and network with airlines and service providers. Registration is now open!

> Quote of the Day

“The extraordinary challenges and pressure of this job have taken their toll, and on the advice of my doctor and after talking to my wife, it’s time I put more focus on my health and well-being,”

JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes
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The next newsletter will be out tomorrow.

ABOUT APEX

The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) encompasses a network of airlines, businesses and professionals that are committed to providing a world-class airline experience for passengers around the globe. Every day, APEX members are improving every aspect of the airline experience, from designing, building and installing seating, entertainment and communications systems on commercial aircraft, to airport lounges and in-flight dining. Visit apex.aero for more information. APEX is professionally managed by Kellen Company, the premier global association management firm with offices and representation in the United States, Europe, China, the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia.

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