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January 12th, 2024

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Today's Top Stories

Alaska Airlines Offering $1,500 In Compensation For MAX 9 Incident

Alaska Airlines is offering $1,500 compensation, full flight refunds, and counseling to passengers of Flight 1282 after the plug door of a Boeing 737 MAX 9 blew out mid-flight. The airline, in an email to passengers, provided the cash compensation to cover immediate needs. Passengers recounted harrowing experiences, and some find the compensation inadequate. Six passengers have filed a lawsuit against Boeing, seeking compensation. The Federal Aviation Administration has grounded all 737 MAX 9s with these plug doors.

Simple Flying | Related

Boeing CEO bizarrely calls Alaska Airlines plane door blowout a ‘quality escape’ - Independent

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APEX TECH Unveils 2024 Workshops: Ancillary Revenues

APEX has revealed a quartet of interactive workshops as part of the 2024 APEX TECH event from 28-29 February at Los Angeles Airport. Each workshop will offer participants a choice of three optional sessions. The first workshop, focusing on “Ancillary Revenue Use Cases,” will give attendees the chance to discuss in-flight advertising, eCommerce and in-flight payments and personalized media content offerings. “Each of our four workshops are a crucible where the future of the airline industry is being forged,” commented APEX TECH Chair, Jonas von Krüchten.

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Vistara says premium economy class is here to stay as more passengers are choosing it

Vistara, the joint venture between Tatas and Singapore Airlines, has affirmed the permanence of its premium economy class amidst plans to strengthen its position in the full-service carrier sector. With 320 daily flights and a fleet of 67 planes, the airline notes a rising trend in passengers opting for premium economy seats on its Airbus 320 neo, Airbus 321, and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Vistara's Chief Commercial Officer, Deepak Rajawat, emphasized the differentiation the premium economy class offers, attributing its success to customer value. As India's aviation market rebounds post-pandemic, Vistara holds a 9.4% domestic market share and anticipates a merger with Air India by mid-2025.

Deccan Herald | Related Vistara CEO moots mid-2025 for Air India merger closure date - CH Aviation

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Finnair appoints new CEO as Manner leaves airline

Finnair has announced Turkka Kuusisto as its new CEO, succeeding Topi Manner, who departs on January 15. Kuusisto, currently CEO at Posti Group Corporation, will assume the role by July 11. Jaakko Schildt, Finnair's COO, will serve as interim CEO until then. Sanna Suvanto-Harsaae, Finnair's board chair, welcomed Kuusisto, highlighting his understanding of complex industries and leadership skills. Kuusisto expressed excitement about leading the iconic 100-year-old airline. Manner had announced his resignation last summer. The change comes as Finnair navigates the next phases of its strategy amid evolving industry dynamics.

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TSA’s Pre-Check Program Adds Airlines And Generates Big Revenue

The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) PreCheck program, facilitating expedited airport security for low-risk passengers, has expanded to include 94 U.S. and foreign airlines. Recent additions, such as Norse Atlantic Airways, Lynx Air, Starlux Airlines, and Fiji Airways, bring the program to over 200 U.S. airports. PreCheck members, totaling over 18 million, can pass through security without removing shoes, belts, laptops, liquids, and food from carry-on bags. TSA collected $311,928 in PreCheck fees in fiscal year 2022, a substantial increase from 2018, contributing to the program's revenue growth. The program's continued expansion aims to enhance the airport experience for eligible passengers.

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“Passengers are in for a treat”– Dublin Airport unveils final phase of F&B transformation programme

Dublin Airport has unveiled the final phase of its five-year Food & Beverage (F&B) transformation program, partnering with Irish food services specialist KSG and Lagardère Travel Retail. The updated F&B offerings across Terminals 1 and 2 include over 20 new and enhanced concepts, bringing the total number of outlets to 42. Passengers can expect a diverse range of options, including Italian, Asian, and Mexican outlets, a world-class food hall, and local favorites. The project, conducted in collaboration with partners, aims to meet passenger preferences for more variety, including gluten-free options. The phased rollout is expected to see over half of the new and revamped units open by June.

The Moodie Davitt Report | Related

Potential freeze on private business jets at Dublin Airport would ‘greatly hinder’ foreign direct investment in Ireland - Irish Times

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London Gatwick Airport Launches Dedicated Electric Vehicle Charging Forecourt

London Gatwick Airport has inaugurated the first international airport Electric Forecourt, a dedicated forecourt for electric vehicle (EV) charging. The Electric Forecourt, powered by Gridserve, boasts 30 EV chargers with options for high-power and low-power outputs, all powered by 100% net-zero energy. The site includes a lounge area with high-speed Wi-Fi, a convenience store, and an interactive EV experience area with on-site support from an EV guru. London Gatwick's Development Director, Bronwen Jones, stated that the strategic location of the charging station will serve millions of passengers, commuters, staff, residents, and businesses passing through the area annually.

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today’s picture comes from @photos_avion_roissy_cdg, showing an Air France A350 at Paris CDG. Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

"Join us February 28-29, in Los Angeles for #APEXTECH & learn from industry leaders during the transformative panel on "AI-assisted smart metadata in the content delivery supply chain." Register ➡️ http://bit.ly/3yKIZkn

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

"Premium economy is a differentiation we have created in India. The first airline to bring it in. It does give a lot of benefits compared to what the economy class (gives)... it gives a value to the customer and that is why we have seen a turn around in premium economy in the last two to three years."

Vistara Chief Commercial Officer Deepak Rajawat
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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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