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January 14, 2021

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Today's Top Stories

A321LR Flight Breaks Duration Record

An Airbus A321LR operated by Azores Airlines completed a nine-hour, 49-minute flight from Portugal to Colombia, marking the longest commercial flight ever conducted by the aircraft type. Commenting on the achievement, Airbus said it served as a testament to how “versatile and efficient” the A321LR can be. This type of narrowbody aircraft benefits from shorter turnaround times, and airlines are expected to favor it over widebody jets for transatlantic operations.

Airline Geeks | Related Why The Airbus A321XLR Is Perfect For Post COVID-19 Aviation – Simple Flying

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Delta Reflects on Losses, Increases Precautions Ahead of Biden Inauguration

The coronavirus crisis spurred Delta Air Lines’ first annual loss in over a decade. CEO Ed Bastian expressed hope that a bounce back in summer travel and further vaccine rollouts could return Delta to profitability in the second half of 2021. The airline will continue to block middle seats until the flying public expresses confidence in the form of increased bookings. In response to security concerns ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration, Bastian confirmed that those traveling to the Washington metropolitan area will not be allowed to check firearms on their flight.

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Air Canada Cuts Capacity and Staff, Leaving Smaller Cities Disconnected

Under its COVID-19 Mitigation and Recovery Plan, Air Canada announced it would cut capacity in Q1 by an additional 25%, which translates into a loss of 1,700 employees. The airline cited increased travel restrictions imposed by the Canadian government as a contributing factor, echoing a sentiment expressed by WestJet on Monday. All flights in Gander and Goose Bay, Newfoundland are suspended, and service to Fredericton, Yellowknife, Prince Rupert and Kamloops will also cease. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Canada's Transport Minister said future support for airlines will be on the condition that regional airports continue to be served.

globe newswire | Related Smaller cities suffer the economic brunt of Air Canada's pandemic exit – CBC

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Helsinki Terminal 2 Renovations Begin Early

Taking advantage of a dearth of crowds due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Finavia has begun the renovation of the departure lounge and arrivals hall of Helsinki Airport’s Terminal 2. This includes a 450,000 square foot terminal expansion slated to be completed in 2022. Between January 18 and June, travelers will need to deal with constrained queuing spaces as all check-in and security control points will be moved to one location.

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West Entertainment Becomes Service Provider for Ricochet

Ricochet Digital Media chose West Entertainment (West) as its technical services provider yesterday. Ricochet is a film distributor for airline and maritime markets that owns classic titles acquired from now-defunct Jaguar Distribution. West will service Ricochet’s non-theatrical post-production lab requirements. Delisa Hudson, Partner at Ricochet, noted that she has known the team at West for a long time: “They are highly qualified industry experts and have a state-of-the-art lab which, combined with their exceptional service and on time delivery, meets our needs perfectly.”

West Entertainment | Related West Entertainment Partners With Qloo for Jetset AI In-Flight Entertainment – APEX Media

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Norwegian Axes Long-Haul Network

Budget carrier Norwegian’s board of directors cited the “profound” impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as the basis of their decision to operate a more simplified business structure that focuses on European routes and ends its long-haul operations. This will lead to the loss of 1,100 pilot and cabin staff based at London Gatwick, and over 1,000 more jobs at bases around the world. Jacob Schram, the airline’s CEO, said the move should attract investors. "Our focus is to rebuild a strong, profitable Norwegian so that we can safeguard as many jobs as possible."

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Smart Glass Windows to be Installed at DFW

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport’s (DFW) Terminal D expansion, scheduled for completion in April, will showcase what it calls the gate of the future, and smart windows manufactured by View will play a leading role. The glass doubles as an ultra-HD screen that can display anything from pertinent flight information to entertainment. It also incorporates AI-based sensors that monitor the environment and keep heat and glare in check. “Our partnership with View is an example of finding innovative answers that improve the passenger experience, proactively provide more efficient energy usage, and reduce our carbon footprint,” said Sean Donohue, CEO at DFW Airport.

Smart Cities World | Related View Smart Windows Aviation – YouTube

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

"On the flight deck of a brand-new Air Canada 787-9, during an air-to-air photo mission to capture the airline’s new livery."

This week, we’re featuring #AvGeekTreasures from longtime APEX Media contributor Howard Slutsken.

> Tweet of the Day

It’s #DressUpYourPetDay, and we think these photos of our #PITPAWS therapy dog team are just too dog-gone cute not to share! Reply below with photos of your furry friends warming up in their winter sweaters, rocking the black and gold, or (Gasp!) sporting another team’s gear.

Pittsburgh International Airport @PITairport

Association News

New Guidelines to Access US Stimulus Funds

Last month, APEX members were encouraged to contact Congress to assure that the Payroll Support Program (PSP) also included relief for contractors. These efforts proved successful and under the COVID-19 relief provisions of the new stimulus bill, a total of $1B has been earmarked to enable the continuation of the PSP for airline contractors. Applications received after 25 January are less likely to be considered, so apply as quickly as possible. Read the Treasury-issued streamlined guidelines and application procedures, and complete your application online.

> Quote of the Day

"We think that in three- or four-months’ time, our adjusted net debt will not have grown since the onset of COVID."

Bradley D. Tilden, Alaska Airlines
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Until 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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