Apex Daily Experience

No Images? Open in Browser

March 9, 2023

Go to APEX.AERO

Today's Top Stories

TSA Wants Airports And Airlines To Boost Their Cybersecurity

Following a rise in cyber-attacks over the past several years, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has unveiled new cybersecurity regulations to overhaul digital infrastructure across the aviation industry. Cybersecurity has become a hot topic within the US over recent years after a rise in cyberattacks hitting private companies and government agencies. In October, 14 major US airports were targeted during a distributed denial of service (DDoS) cyber-attack, leaving them briefly inaccessible, though airport operations were not impacted. New policies, including a Biden-Harris administration-led National Cybersecurity Strategy, have since been proposed.

Simple Flying | Related TSA Issues New Cybersecurity Requirements For Airport And Aircraft Operators - TSA

SHARE

Southwest Airlines Taps AWS To Optimize Operations

Southwest Airlines has chosen Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider. This large-scale modernization with AWS is part of the airline’s long-term plan to enhance the passenger journey, optimize operations, and invest in information technology infrastructure. The airline will harness AWS’s automatic scaling capabilities to more efficiently process real-time fare searches on its website and mobile app, helping customers easily and securely find and book fares quickly, even during peak traffic. The airline aims to provide next-generation customer service and employee tools in a test-and-learn capacity through its Innovation Lab powered by AWS.

Yahoo Finance | Related Southwest Is Modernizing Its Technology With Help From Amazon After Holiday Meltdown - Bloomberg

SHARE

Lufthansa Allegris Premium Economy And Economy

As with any multi-class airline, the majority of Lufthansa’s revenues and profits come from its premium cabins. Yet of the 27,000 seats announced as part of the Lufthansa Allegris generation of products, 24,000 — or some 89 percent — are economy. Premium economy, meanwhile, remains the most profitable space in the aircraft by square centimetre. It will be the ZIMprivacy seat, as announced over a year ago and already implemented by Swiss last year. Elements of note include that it is a fixed backshell product with a slide-forward mechanism to recline rather than a pivoting recliner.

Runway Girl Network | Related Allegris First Class Moves The Lufthansa Premium Product Needle - Runway Girl Network

SHARE

Italian Airline Signs Up For Space-Enabled Flights

The ESA-backed Iris for aviation system connects pilots digitally to air traffic controllers via satellites, so that flight routes can be optimised. Pilots will be able to fly the most efficient routes, saving time and fuel, while cutting emissions of greenhouse gases. The Iris system complements the outdated data communications technology that is used at present and is nearing full capacity in Europe’s congested airspace. The European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation – Eurocontrol – has identified that improved air traffic management could cut emissions of carbon dioxide by up to 10%.

SHARE

Heathrow Told To Cut Passenger Charges In Move That Could Lower Fares

Heathrow Airport has been ordered to cut passenger charges by about 20% next year after airlines convinced the UK regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority, to reassess its proposals. The regulator's decision was described as “making no sense” by Heathrow, which had sought to charge much higher fees to fund baggage handling, security and other costs. The CAA said its decision reflected the fact that travel was expected to return to pre-pandemic levels from 2024 and should benefit passengers in terms of lower costs.

The Guardian | Related Canadian Airports Look To Raise Their Airport Fees - Global News

SHARE

Changi Airport To Ramp Up Automation In Next 3-5 Years

A trial of driverless baggage tractors that began during the pandemic will hit a major milestone in the coming weeks as Changi Airport takes its next step towards autonomous operations on the tarmac. By April, 3 TractEasy baggage tractors being tested at Terminal 3 will be allowed to move around without a safety driver. Separately, a different set of driverless baggage trailers from British transport technology firm Aurrigo is also undergoing a proof-of-concept trial that could transform how airside operations are conducted.

The Straits Times | Related Singapore Expands Automated Gates With Wheelchair And Family Lanes - Runway Girl Network

SHARE

London Gatwick Airport To Spotlight English Wine And Local Produce

London Gatwick Airport will be opening two restaurants and wine bars – Vagabond Bar & Kitchen and South Downs Sparkling Wine Bar, in May 2023. Vagabond will offer passengers more than 80 wines from around the world, via its bespoke self-serve dispensing machines, allowing them to sample wines before committing to a glass or bottle. South Downs is a sparkling wine bar in the heart of the South Terminal departure lounge. It will offer a cocktail menu, and serve meals and snacks, inspired by wine-producing regions across the world.

Passenger Terminal Today | Related SSP Brings Vietnamese Quick-Service Restaurant To Changi Airport - Passenger Terminal Today

SHARE

> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today’s picture comes from @raph_planespotter1020, showing a Spirit Airlines A320Neo, setting up for take off at LaGuardia Airport.

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

> Tweet of the Day

I'm flying domestic first class with Garuda Indonesia, but in a long-haul plane. Getting through security was a breeze, and I'm now in my own private room, away from business class passengers (not that they're any out there). An attendant took my breakfast order. #paxex

Han @hanchicago

Association News

APEX TECH 2023

New innovations and the future of connectivity, how are you prepared and what’s your organization doing to orchestrate “the next?” Join us at 2023 APEX TECH, 21 March – 23 March in Los Angeles, CA, and learn from and network with airlines and service providers. Register now.

> Quote of the Day

“TSA will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders across all transportation modes to reduce cybersecurity risks and improve cyber resilience to support safe, secure, and efficient travel. This amendment to the aviation security programs extends similar performance-based requirements that currently apply to other transportation system critical infrastructure.”

TSA Administrator David Pekoske
Read the article

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.

Connect with APEX

You have received this email because you are subscribed to this newsletter from apex.aero.

Change email frequency | Unsubscribe