Apex Daily Experience

No Images? Open in Browser

March 25, 2024

Go to APEX.AERO

Today's Top Stories

Boeing chief executive Dave Calhoun to leave as firm faces safety crisis

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun is set to leave by year-end amidst a growing safety crisis following an incident where a door blew off a 737 Max during flight, highlighting issues with the company's safety and quality control standards. This crisis follows two fatal 737 Max crashes in 2018 and 2019, which led to intense scrutiny of Boeing's safety culture and practices. The company faces a criminal investigation and lawsuits related to the recent incident. Calhoun's departure, along with the immediate exit of the commercial airlines' division head Stan Deal and the upcoming replacement of chairman Larry Kellner by Steve Mollenkopf, signals a major leadership overhaul in an effort to restore trust and address safety concerns.

BBC News | Related

Boeing chief Dave Calhoun to step down - Financial Times

SHARE

US DOT launches review into how passenger data is collected and used

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is set to conduct a privacy review of the ten major US airlines, focusing on how they manage and protect passengers' personal data. This examination, led by the DOT's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, will scrutinise the airlines' data collection, handling, maintenance practices, and their strategies for monetising passenger data and preventing data breaches. The airlines under review include Allegiant Air, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, and United. The DOT has warned of actions against problematic practices, highlighting the importance of airline compliance in safeguarding consumer privacy.

Travel & Leisure | Related

Federal officials want to know how airlines handle — and share — passengers’ personal information - Associated Press

SHARE

British Airways is Introducing ‘Group 0’ Boarding On March 26

British Airways is introducing a new 'Group 0' for boarding, prioritizing its ultra-elite frequent flyers, including Premier card holders and Gold Guest List members. This initiative, starting at Heathrow on March 26, expands the boarding groups to ten. Group 0 allows these top-tier passengers and their guests, regardless of travel class, to board first. This move is part of BA's effort to enhance the ground experience for its most valuable customers. However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of multiple boarding groups, as agents often call several groups simultaneously, diluting the exclusivity. Additionally, passengers willing to check in their hand luggage can skip ahead, potentially undermining the benefit of early boarding for overhead bin space.

Paddle Your Own Canoe | Related British Airways’ Exclusive New “Group 0” Boarding - One Mile At A Time

SHARE

Lufthansa, ITA Airways deal may hurt competition, EU watchdog says

Lufthansa's proposal to acquire a minority stake in ITA Airways is under scrutiny by EU antitrust regulators due to concerns it could stifle competition and raise prices, particularly on short-haul routes between Italy and Central European countries, as well as long-haul routes to the U.S., Canada, and Japan. The European Commission warns this deal could solidify ITA's dominant position at Milan's main airport and negatively impact market competition. Lufthansa, aiming to purchase a 41% share of ITA for €325 million, has been advised to propose stronger remedies by April 26 to alleviate these concerns, with hopes to integrate ITA into its group within the year.

Reuters | Related

Lufthansa Gets EU Warning Shot Over €325 Million ITA Deal - Bloomberg

SHARE

Cathay Pacific Will Accelerate SAF Usage To Reach New 2030 Emissions Target

Cathay Pacific is advancing its commitment to environmental sustainability by setting new carbon emission reduction targets for 2030, aiming for a 12% reduction from 2019 levels, while maintaining its long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The airline plans to meet these targets through the accelerated use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), introducing over 70 new fuel-efficient aircraft into its fleet, and continuing its efforts in operational improvements. This initiative underscores Cathay's leadership in sustainability within the aviation industry, highlighting its dedication to decarbonization through significant investments in SAF, collaborative efforts, and strategic partnerships aimed at fostering the development and adoption of cleaner aviation fuels.

Simple Flying | Related Cathay joins Hong Kong-based SAF coalition - Flight Global

SHARE

Hainan Airlines and IHG unveil new partnership

IHG Hotels and Resorts has partnered with Hainan Airlines in a two-year marketing collaboration featuring a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, dubbed the "IHG Explorer," adorned in IHG's iconic deep blue livery. This partnership includes unique in-flight elements such as custom lumbar pillows designed by HUALUXE and artist Chen Jiu, and a special menu by Cai Feng Lou, offering "Cloud Banquet: Springtime Island Delights" with Cantonese and Hainanese flavours. A co-branded safety video will also incorporate IHG's brand portfolio into the flight safety instructions. IHG says this initiative reflects its commitment to catering to diverse guest needs and maximizing IHG One Rewards member benefits through strategic partnerships.

Business Traveller | Related IHG and Hainan Airlines Forge New Heights in Travel Experience Integration - Breaking Travel News

SHARE

Birmingham Airport invests in tracking software

Birmingham Airport has introduced WebTrak, a new tracking software, to enhance transparency and community engagement by allowing the public to monitor aircraft operations in real-time. This initiative aligns with the airport's sustainability strategy and commitment to being a responsible neighbour. WebTrak provides users with detailed flight information, including the closest approach to their home and aircraft noise levels, and allows them to report concerns directly to the airport. Tom Denton, the head of sustainability, emphasized the importance of two-way communication in fulfilling their sustainability promises and enhancing neighbourly relations. The software, which uses the same radar feed as Air Traffic Control, underscores the airport's efforts towards sustainable and transparent operations.

Express & Star | Related Birmingham airport launches new platform in sustainability drive - The Business Desk

SHARE

> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's picture comes from @yeol.airline.photo showing an Asiana 747 on approach at Incheon International Airport. Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

. . @XiamenAirlines & Atlantico Press are some of the buyers that will be represented at #APEXContentMarket next week in Lisbon. We can't wait to see everyone there: http://bit.ly/497Z5Ey #IFE #PaxEx #Aviation

APEX @theAPEXassoc

Association News

Shop the Online APEX Merchandise Store

Surprise 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 Shopping today!

APEX Content Market | 26-27 March 2024 | Lisbon

APEX Content Market provides an intimate and productive setting for all airline content needs, including the best in TV, movies, games, GUIs, apps and audio! As the only global industry event focused on connecting in-flight entertainment content buyers with worldwide content distributors, APEX Content Market is your chance to browse the dynamic show floor to get ahead on planning your in-flight content for the upcoming year. Registration is now open!

> Quote of the Day

“Airline passengers should have confidence that their personal information is not being shared improperly with third parties or mishandled by employees. This review of airline practices is the beginning of a new initiative by DOT to ensure airlines are being good stewards of sensitive passenger data.”

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
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