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March 29, 2024

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Today's Top Stories

United Airlines activates search filter for wheelchair transport

United Airlines has introduced a new search filter allowing passengers to find flights that securely accommodate their wheelchairs in the cargo hold. The airline will also reimburse customers for fare increases on alternate flights needed to transport their wheelchairs, a first in the U.S. airline industry. These changes are part of a complaint resolution United entered into with the Department of Transportation in September. U.S. airlines have a higher rate of damaging wheelchairs compared to regular baggage. Last year, United-branded flights carried over 200,000 checked wheelchairs.

Travel Weekly | Related United Airlines Innovates with Wheelchair-Friendly Booking Tool - Travel Wires

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How Thales is Innovating in Line with Current IFEC Trends

During APEX TECH 2024, Thales InFlyt Experience's CTO Tudy Bedou explained how the company is expanding on the capabilities of its AVANT Up in-flight entertainment (IFE) system to cater to passengers' evolving needs. For example, he said next year Thales is introducing a new casting technology allowing passengers to project their content on the IFE screen, stating, “Passengers expect to have the same multi-screen at-home experience in the air.” He also hinted at upcoming announcements regarding accessibility, the integration of artificial intelligence and sustainability.

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Uber-style platform helping to solve accessibility issues at major airports

Progressive airports and airlines are exploring tech-focused solutions to enhance accessibility, such as the Ostrum platform – an Uber-style service designed to solve many of the issues currently experienced by those requiring airport special assistance, which is live at London Luton Airport and London Gatwick. Abhi Chacko is a Board Member of Ostrum. In this interview, he speaks on behalf of Ostrum, sharing more details about this “open platform” approach to accessibility.

Future Travel Experience | Related FTE Digital Innovation & Startup Hub

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Tuned Global teams with Spafax to provide inflight music

Tuned Global, a B2B music and streaming platform, has partnered with Spafax, an international travel media network, to provide cleared music playlists for in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems. Spafax's clients include major airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air Canada. Tuned Global's music backend technology and content management tool allow Spafax's music programmers to create tailored audio experiences for each airline's brand from a fully licensed music catalog. The partnership with Crunch Digital ensures proper reporting and payment to rights holders. This collaboration simplifies the music selection and distribution process for IFE systems while ensuring compliance with licensing agreements.

Runway Girl | Related

Spafax’s Arthur Cuyugan on Transitioning to Cloud-Based Infrastructure - APEX

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Border Force staff at Heathrow Airport to strike in April

Over 600 UK Border Force staff at Heathrow Airport have voted to strike for four days in April, from the 11th to the 14th, in response to a new roster and imposed changes to shift patterns. The PCS union claims these changes could result in 250 job losses by the end of April. Fran Heathcote, PCS general secretary, criticized the consultation process as a "farce" and urged the government to scrap the changes and protect jobs and working conditions. The Home Office expressed disappointment with the strike decision but stated they have robust plans to minimize disruption during one of the busiest travel periods.

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Tallinn upgrades checkpoint with Rapiscan scanners

Tallinn Airport has upgraded its security checkpoint with new scanners from Rapiscan Systems, allowing passengers to keep liquids and large electronic devices inside their carry-on bags during screening. The airport has also relaxed its liquid restrictions, now permitting containers up to 2 litres in hand luggage, compared to the previous limit of 100ml containers with a total volume of 1 litre. However, passengers should still verify the liquid rules at their destination and connecting airports before their return flights, as the same volume restrictions may not yet apply universally.

Passenger Terminal Today | Related Liquids, electronics hand luggage removal rules lifted at Tallinn Airport - ERR

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Mexico's state-owned airline faces $841 million lawsuit in contract dispute

SAT Aero Holdings has filed a lawsuit against Mexico's new state-owned airline, Mexicana, for breach of contract, seeking over $840 million in damages. SAT was hired to assist with procuring aircraft, insurance, recruiting staff, and arranging maintenance for the airline but alleges that the Mexican government hampered its efforts by refusing to sign necessary documents and obtain required licenses. Mexicana, launched in December 2023 after the government revived an older company, has struggled to acquire aircraft and faced reduced initial destinations. The Mexican government has not officially commented on the lawsuit, but the president recently stated that the airline would acquire 20 aircraft by October.

Reuters | Related

Mexico’s new state airline sued for $841m in contract dispute - Airport Technology

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's picture shows a Fiji Airways A-350 in Nadi, Fiji. Via @the_la_spotter/ Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

. @VirginAtlantic has acquired a range of content from independent distributor @all3media , including both new & returning series’ & documentaries, for its #IFE catalog. Read more in this APEX Insights story: http://bit.ly/4cxfCV1 @sgracetaylor #PaxEx #Aviation

APEX @theAPEXassoc

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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!

> Quote of the Day

“Integrating with passengers’ smartphones in a more intelligent way, including mirroring and casting, has become increasingly important.”

Thales InFlyt Experience CTO Tudy Bedou
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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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