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February 6, 2024

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Today's Top Stories

Delta To Refurbish Select 737-800s With Updated IFE, New First Class

Delta Air Lines has launched a refurbishment program for certain Boeing 737-800s and 757s. The upgrade for the 737-800s includes Panasonic's eX1 IFE system, replacing outdated screens and USB ports. Main Cabin and Comfort+ will get 10" screens, with an unspecified size for First Class. The refurbishment also features modern USB ports, a new First Class seat based on Recaro's CL4710 recliner, touchless lavatories, and fuel-efficient split-scimitar winglets. However, Delta will not update overhead bins or passenger service units on the 737-800s.

Runway Girl Network | Related Interior refresh coming for Delta’s 737-800s – PaxEx.Aero

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Lufthansa's Wednesday Strike To Affect 100,000+ Passengers

The Verdi Union has called for a strike involving Lufthansa ground staff on Wednesday, potentially affecting over 100,000 passengers and causing severe disruptions to Lufthansa's operations. Scheduled on the heels of a previous strike by security personnel, this action is set to further trouble German aviation. With over 1,000 flights at risk, the strike includes 25,000 Lufthansa employees across Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, and Düsseldorf, lasting for 27 hours. The strike also involves Lufthansa Technik, Cargo, and Engineering & Operational Services staff.

Simple Flying | Related Lufthansa Cancels Most Flights On Wednesday Due To Strike – One Mile at a Time

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TAP Air Portugal's New Premium Lounge Atlântico In Lisbon

TAP Air Portugal unveiled its Premium Lounge Atlântico on January 30, 2024, enhancing its offerings for non-Schengen flight passengers. The lounge, situated post-passport control, accommodates 100 guests within a 380 square meter space, operating from 5AM to 12AM. Despite its modest size and lack of showers, it features a self-serve buffet, drink selection, and embodies Portuguese culture with cork, burel, and tiles décor. Accessible to Star Alliance business class passengers and Gold members, this addition aims to improve TAP's premium ground experience, addressing the previously limited lounge capacity and positioning for non-Schengen travelers in Lisbon.

One Mile At A Time | Related TAP Air Portugal opens new non-Schengen lounge at Lisbon airport – Business Traveller

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United Flight Attendants To Face Consequences For Smartphone Distractions

United Airlines has issued a stern warning to its flight attendants regarding the use of personal devices during flights, emphasizing that such behavior could lead to termination. The airline stressed the importance of providing visible and attentive service, highlighting the safety and service concerns associated with crew members being preoccupied with smartphones or tablets. The memo particularly addresses the risks of using devices during critical phases such as takeoff and landing, noting that inattention could lead to injuries and compromise onboard security.

Business Traveler USA | Related United Airlines Resets Expectations In Memo To Flight Attendants – Simple Flying

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Air France Offers Boxed Meals In Short-Haul Business Passengers

Air France has introduced a new "Bento box" style catering for premium short-haul passengers, designed in collaboration with François Adamski. Launched on February 1, the menu varies with the time of day, offering breakfast options before 10 am and gourmet 'signature' sandwiches afterward, alongside traditional French sweets and a selection of wine, champagne, and beverages. Monthly menu updates, the use of local and sustainable ingredients, and efficient waste recycling aim to enhance the in-flight dining experience without the need for traditional tray service. This approach suits flights up to 1.5 hours, streamlining service and allowing passengers to enjoy their meal without haste.

Economy Class & Beyond | Related Air France Rolls Out Boxed Meals In Domestic Business Class – One Mile at a Time

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New Report Identifies Blended Itineraries & 'Objective Stacking' Among Business Travel Trends

The recent report by Globetrender and Cytric Easy by Amadeus highlights emerging business travel trends, influenced by post-Covid-19 shifts, technological advancements, and environmental concerns. Corporate travelers are becoming more discerning, seeking greater value and experience from each trip. The concept of 'blended itineraries' is replacing traditional 'bleisure' trips, emphasizing flexible corporate policies and employee satisfaction. Sustainability is a priority, with 90% of travel companies actively pursuing or planning environmental strategies. Additionally, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing travel efficiency and policy compliance, with AI personal assistants and digital expense management gaining prominence.

Business Traveller | Related Globetrender reveals 2024 business travel trends – ITIJ

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Liverpool John Lennon Airport Opens Sensory Space

Liverpool John Lennon Airport, in collaboration with ABM and guided by Autism Adventures and Alder Hey Hospital, has introduced a sensory space within its departure lounge, aimed at supporting passengers with sensory or cognitive impairments. This $45,000 initiative provides a serene environment to help individuals with autism and other special needs relax before flights. Accessible and free, yet requiring advance booking, the space is part of the airport's broader commitment to accommodating passengers with hidden disabilities, ensuring a comfortable journey for all.

Passenger Terminal Today | Related Liverpool John Lennon Airport opens sensory space near departure lounge – BBC

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's picture comes from @the_binge_traveler, showing a Lufthansa Boeing 747-830 aircraft.

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

> Tweet of the Day

. @airindia has picked @recaro_as as the seat provider for its widebody aircraft. 22K seats will be installed over next 6 years on its #B777, #B787 and incoming #A350. L 📷 - Economy Seat; R 📷 - Premium Economy Seat. The widebody retrofit begins later this year. #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!

Delta Air Lines’ Ekrem Dimbiloglu to join us at APEX TECH

We’re delighted Ekrem Dimbiloglu will be joining us at APEX TECH. He is Delta Air Lines’ Managing Director of Customer Experience. Find out more about Ekrem’s work on Delta SYNC in this insightful interview he did with NPR.

> Quote of the Day

“If there is one word to sum up business travel in 2024, that will be ‘discernment. Employees no longer want to sacrifice areas of their personal lives to be constantly on the road, and companies need to balance the fulfillment of financial and ESG targets, which will mean all parties need to be more selective about what trips they commit to.”

Jenny Southan, CEO & Founder of Globetrender
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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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