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January 22, 2024

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Today's Top Stories

JetBlue And Spirit Will Appeal Court Ruling Against Proposed Merger

JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines are appealing the court decision that blocked their proposed merger. Despite initial hesitation, they filed a notice of appeal to the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. District Court Judge William Young had ruled in favor of the US Department of Justice (DoJ), stating JetBlue did not prove the merger wouldn’t be anti-competitive and would violate antitrust laws. The DoJ and Attorney General Merrick Garland welcomed Young’s ruling, viewing it as a protection against potential fare hikes and a victory for travelers.

Airport Technology | Related JetBlue’s $3.8bn bid for rival airline Spirit blocked by US judge – FT

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oneworld Opens 1st Alliance Operated Lounge In Incheon Airport

Passengers of oneworld allied airlines can now enjoy a new lounge at Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN), located in Terminal 1. The lounge was initially planned for Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport. Located in airport’s Terminal 1, the stylish 555 square meter lounge, developed with Swissport and its Aspire Lounge team, features Korean-influenced design, mood lighting, and various seating zones. The lounge has a seating capacity of up to 148 customers and is open to Emerald and Sapphire members, and business and first class passengers on oneworld flights.

Simple Flying | Related Seoul welcomes first oneworld branded lounge – Business Traveller

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Brussels Airlines Unveils Sustainable And Inclusive Uniform Collection

Brussels Airlines has launched a new uniform collection for its cabin, cockpit, and ground operations staff, designed by Gabrielle Szwarcenberg from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp. The collection, inspired by 1960s fashion, includes turtleneck tops and A-line dresses in navy blue with champagne accents, reflecting the airline’s 2021 brand identity and ‘Belgitude’ concept. Prioritizing sustainability, the uniforms are made from ethically sourced materials like BCI-certified cotton and mulesing-free wool, with innovative leather alternatives from cacti and grapes. Emphasizing inclusivity, the collection offers gender-neutral options and comfortable footwear alternatives.

BNN Breaking | Related Brussels Airlines unveils new uniforms – Business Traveller

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Air India Goes For Gold With World-Class IFE Content

Air India is revamping its in-flight entertainment (IFE) for its new Airbus A350s and leased Boeing 777-200LRs with a vast content library. Additionally, a $400 million refurbishment of Boeing 787-8s and 777-300ERs includes new in-seat IFE systems and cabin seats, starting this year. The extensive content includes over 2,200 hours of entertainment: 1,000 hours of movies, 600 hours of TV, and 600 hours of audio. Highlights include Bollywood and Hollywood films, global music, documentaries, and the new Air India Radio channel with podcasts, 800 music choices, and 60 playlists.

Runway Girl Network | Related Air India begins commercial operations of country’s 1st A350 aircraft – Hindustan Times

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Cathay Pacific Opens Shekou Ferry Lounge

Cathay Pacific has opened its first non-airport lounge at the Shekou Cruise Home Port in Shenzhen, featuring the same design as its airport lounges by Studioilse. The lounge offers panoramic views, including a glimpse of Hong Kong. It serves passengers on Cathay Pacific’s codeshare ferry services between Shekou and Hong Kong International Airport’s SkyPier Terminal, with 11 daily round trips taking about 30 minutes. Passengers can get ferry tickets, boarding passes, and check luggage for Cathay flights.

Business Traveller | Related Inside Cathay’s new seaside Shekou ferry terminal lounge – Executive Traveller

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UK Set To Ease Airport Security Rules In 2024

By June 2024, UK airports will implement new security technology, allowing passengers to carry larger liquid quantities in cabin bags and keep electronics inside during security checks. This move ends restrictions introduced in November 2006 after a plot to blow up planes with explosives in drink bottles was foiled. The UK Government’s deadline marks a significant improvement in security processes and passenger experience. The latest screening technology, including CT X-ray machines providing 3D images and advanced threat detection, has been successfully trialed since 2018.

Airport Technology | Related Tourists face travel confusion as 100ml liquid rules set to continue past deadline – Yahoo

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Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport Deploys Autonomous Baggage Handling Vehicle

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) has partnered with Aurrigo and International Airlines Group (IAG) to introduce the Auto-DollyTug, an autonomous baggage tractor. This all-electric vehicle merges the functions of a baggage tractor and the unit load device (ULD) carrying capacity of an airport dolly, resulting in a more versatile and space-efficient solution. With its robotic arms, Auto-DollyTug can autonomously load and unload ULDs, enhancing operational efficiency. It can tow three trailers, carrying four ULDs, which is 30% more than a standard tug of the same length.

Passenger Terminal Today | Related Aurrigo Auto-Dolly Tug to be deployed at Cincinnati – Regional Gateway

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today’s picture comes from @747mickey, showing an All Nippon Airways Boeing 777-200 aircraft.

Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

Here is the first video of @airindia 's #A350-900 departing @BLRAirport (BLR) on its 1st commercial flight today (captured by my friend @jiteshluthra from seat 2A). Given the clear skies in #Bengaluru, one can see all of BLR as VT-JRA created #aviation history. #AvGeek #PaxEx

VT-VLO @Vinamralongani

Association News

Shop the Online APEX Merchandise Store

It’s almost Valentine’s Day. Share the love by surprising your colleagues and team with thoughtful gifts from the APEX Store. It's the perfect way to express your appreciation and support for our wonderful APEX community. Start spreading the love – Start Shopping today!

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 new oneworld lounge is an exciting next step in our vision to making travel bright. Together with ASPIRE, we have combined refined fixtures and finishes, digital technologies, and warm and ergonomic settings to create smart and memorable travel experiences.”

oneworld’s VP of customer experience, Gerhard Girkinger
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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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