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January 15, 2021

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Today's Top Stories

FAA Warns Fines, Imprisonment in Store For Unruly Flyers

In response to “a disturbing increase” in disruptive passenger behavior following the violence at the US Capitol, the FAA revised its law enforcement program to be stricter from the outset. It will impose fines of up to $35,000 upon any traveler who refuses to wear a mask, as well as those who assault, threaten, intimidate or interfere with crew or other passengers. Violators may also face jail time. "Flying is the safest mode of transportation and I signed this order to keep it that way," said FAA administrator Steve Dickson.

Travel Pulse | Related FAA's Zero Tolerance for Disruptive Passengers – YouTube

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Trends Poised to Redefine Air Transport This Year

Future Travel Experience has outlined 13 trends it says will drive recovery in air transport as the year unfolds. Touchless tech has been implemented in areas like check-in and security, retail, IFE and more. Food and beverage pre-ordering is also likely here to stay, along with further investment in smart cleaning robots and UV sanitizing solutions. Finally, most airlines, airports and airframers have committed to sustainability initiatives despite the uncertainty caused by the pandemic. Governments worldwide expect the industry to lower its carbon footprint, Airbus singled out hydrogen as a promising fuel source and airlines are finding innovative ways to curb food waste.

Future Travel Experience | Related 100 Solutions to Pandemic Problems – APEX Media

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American Airlines Expands VeriFLY Recognition For All Inbound Travelers

Beginning January 23, international travelers on American Airlines (AA) flights bound for the US can use the VeriFLY app to store their COVID test results and other required entry documents. Thousands of AA customers have already used VeriFLY since November, when it was made available for departures to Jamaica, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The airline said it is supportive of the new federal rules that require travelers to the US to present a negative COVID test result and wants to make travel “seamless” for its customers.

American Airlines | Related American Airlines and Daon Extend VeriFLY Service to Four More Countries in Latin America – Find Biometrics

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Tampa Airport Rolls Out 5G as Super Bowl Draws Near

By the end of the month, Tampa International Airport (TPA) claims it will be the first facility in the nation to offer 5G cellular service across the three largest US providers. With 5G, travelers can download a feature film in a few seconds. The airport also bolstered its 4G network, improving its coverage and speed. The airport installed around 800 antennas as part of a project that is expected to generate $500,000 in revenue per year for the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority. TPA is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors for Super Bowl LV next month.

tampa airport | Related Tampa International Airport prepares to welcome Super Bowl LV teams, visitors – TPA

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Chinese Airframers Added to US Sanctions List

Comac, Aviation Industry Corporation of China and other Chinese companies were added to a blacklist of firms that the US Department of Defense suspects are contributing to the modernization of the Chinese military. American investors are subsequently required to divest their holdings of the blacklisted firms by November 11, 2021. This could hurt Comac’s continuing development of its C919 narrowbody and ARJ21 regional jet, as their engines and avionics are American-made. It remains to be seen whether president-elect Joe Biden will reverse the policy.

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Acro Plans Growth and Development From New Base

UK seat manufacturer Acro Aircraft Seating has completed the move to a new facility almost double the size of its previous one to support ambitious expansion and development plans in the year ahead. The manufacturer’s move from its former base near London Gatwick Airport to Crick, Northamptonshire, was “seamlessly accomplished within the last few weeks,” according to CEO Neil Cairns. “The physical move has re-energized our thinking on every front ... we are in an enviable position of confidence, fuelled by substantial investment and ambitious growth,” he said.

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Creditors Approve Zim Flugsitz Restructuring Plan

German seat manufacturer Zim Flugsitz exited insolvency proceedings after creditors unanimously approved a restructuring plan in December. The company said recent new contracts with major airlines prove the company can be successfully released from the self-administration process. “We would like to thank everyone involved, in particular the creditors‘ committee, the trustee Martin Mucha, the PLUTA law firm, the employees and all creditors for the good and constructive cooperation over the past few months”, said Zim managing director Heiko Fricke.

Zim Flugsitz | Related Shells, Clamps and Mounts: Hands-Free IFE Viewing Solutions – APEX Media

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

"That’s me, climbing through 9,200 feet in an ASK-21 glider – at Soaring NV in Minden, Nevada."

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

> Tweet of the Day

Fly with confidence. All four of our member airlines taking part in @theAPEXassoc Health Safety audit powered by @simpliflying have achieved Diamond Status. This means passengers receive the highest standards of hygiene and safety. 💎✈️ #StarAllianceFamily #FlyWithConfidence

Star Alliance @staralliance

Association News

What Is the Era of the New Passenger? Join This Free APEX Thought Leadership Virtual Event

Join APEX and Viasat on 27 January for the first virtual event of the new year! Right now, passengers are traveling with touchless and connected technologies as the industry enters a new era. How are airlines adapting? Don Buchman of Viasat, Andres Castañeda of Aeroméxico, and Clarissa Sebastian from American Airlines will share their thoughts during a panel discussion. Rick Baldridge, CEO and President of Viasat will also conduct a fireside chat; both segments will be supplemented by a live question period. Registration is free, so sign up now!

> Quote of the Day

"Directives that put additional economic pressure or any additional competition elements would be the wrong way to go in the next three years."

Jost Lammers, Munich Airport
Read the article

Until next week

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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