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April 5, 2021

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Today's Top Stories

CDC Updates Travel Guidance for Fully Vaccinated Adults

Updated travel guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that people who are fully vaccinated – about 20% of the adult population – can travel at low risk to themselves, and that if they wear masks, they can travel within the US without getting tested for COVID-19 beforehand or self-quarantining afterward. For international travel, fully vaccinated people don't need a test prior to travel unless required by the destination, and do not need to self-isolate on their return. Nonetheless, the CDC noted they should still have a negative test result before boarding a flight to the US and partake in a follow-up test three to five days after returning.

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Air Canada Calls Off Air Transat Acquisition

Transat AT, owner and operator of Air Transat, will no longer be acquired by Air Canada following the news that the European Commission would not approve the move, even with an enhanced remedy package from Air Canada. The flag carrier stated that providing any further remedies would compromise its ability to compete internationally, which is at odds with its COVID-19 recovery plans. Air Canada will pay Transat AT $9.9 million to terminate the agreement between the two parties, which was originally made in June 2019 before being amended in August 2019 and then revised in October 2020 to reflect the impact of the pandemic.

Aerospace Technology | Related Why Did Air Canada & Air Transat Need European Approval to Merge? – Simple Flying

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APEX Media Publisher Recounts IFE’s Transformation Since 2014

As of April 12, Spafax will no longer serve as APEX Media’s publisher, having elected to move on from the role with great appreciation to APEX for the opportunity. The platform will continue as strong as ever under the continued direction of the association, working with a new partner. In this three-part series, Spafax’s executive vice-president, Al St. Germain, looks back on a highly rewarding and eye-opening seven years at the helm of this unique media venture. First, he explores how in-flight entertainment (IFE) content has evolved since 2014.

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Singapore Rolls Out IATA Travel Pass for International Arrivals

From May, passengers can use IATA’s Travel Pass to share their pre-departure COVID-19 test results with airlines and immigration staff upon arrival in Singapore. The Travel Pass app, which is being tested by over 20 carriers, including Singapore Airlines, will become available for download this month. “As we work to safely rebuild the Changi air hub, we will continue to explore other solutions that can provide similarly secure and verifiable means of sharing health certificates for safe international travel,” said Kevin Shum, director general, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore.

BNN Bloomberg | Related Changi Airport launches a new travel companion for passengers – Changi Airport

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Nepal to Allow In-Flight Wi-Fi Above 10,000 Feet

The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has approved the use of in-flight Wi-Fi by international airlines serving the country, becoming the third South Asian country to do so after India and Afghanistan. "The decision made on March 22 allows airlines … to turn on the Wi-Fi after the aircraft climbs to above 10,000 feet," said Purushottam Khanal, chairman of the NTA. Domestic airlines flying above 10,000 feet can also apply to provide in-flight Wi-Fi to passengers. Khanal confirmed that SITA has approached the NTA regarding in-flight connectivity, but added, "We are yet to approve the permit."

Kathmandu Post | Related Vistara extends in-flight Wi-Fi service in India – PaxEx.Aero

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JetBlue Outlines Path to Net Zero Carbon Emissions

JetBlue has its sights set on net zero carbon emissions by 2040. “Our vision is to lead the way to a lower-carbon future for aviation,” said Joanna Geraghty, president and COO, JetBlue. “To get there, we are focused on innovations that offer meaningful reductions in emissions and are setting clear targets along the way.” By 2030, it hopes to have decreased its aircraft emissions by 25% per available seat mile compared to 2015 levels, excluding offsets, and converted 10% of its fuel consumption to blended sustainable aviation fuels. It is also aiming to have switched 40% of its three main ground service equipment vehicle types to electric power by 2025, rising to 50% by 2030.

Business Traveller | Related JetBlue introduces new one-stop travel booking website – Future Travel Experience

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Hudson Expands Digital Offering with Automated Retail Concept

Hudson Group has launched a new automated retail concept at Myrtle Beach International Airport, which is due to roll out at Chicago Midway and Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International airports in coming months. Brightly lit machines offer passengers a selection of top-selling products and exclusive items not usually available in Hudson stores. Next to the machines, touch screens showcase merchandise images and product information. In concepts that feature eyewear brands, personalized augmented reality technology will allow travelers to “try on” the frames. Hudson employees on-site at nearby stores will provide assistance should customers require.

TR Business | Related Hudson Nonstop, Powered By Amazon’s Just Walk Out Technology, Takes Flight At Dallas Love Field Airport – Business Wire

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

@angeisse designed this image for the first instalment in our three-part Publisher's Notebook series.

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

> Tweet of the Day

It was love at first sight for York, a Southwest Pilot, and Sabrina, a fellow aviation-lover, when they met in person for the first time at a Southwest ticket counter at LAS. It was only fitting, then, for the couple to be married on a Southwest flight from LAS to SLC.

Southwest Airlines @SouthwestAir

Association News

FTE APEX Virtual Expo to Host Women in Aviation Leadership Summit

FTE and APEX take gender diversity and equality very seriously, and the aviation industry still has a long way to go to reflect the modern world we live in. At FTE APEX Virtual Expo, the Women in Aviation Leadership Summit will provide a platform for some of the industry’s foremost female leaders to share their experiences and expertise. Learn more about other new activities for 2021.

> Quote of the Day

“No single airline can fly to every destination on the map, but through oneworld we practically can.”

Rob Gurney, oneworld
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Until 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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