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April 11, 2024

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Today's Top Stories

IndiGo Becomes World's Third Most Valuable Airline

IndiGo, India's largest airline, has become the world's third most valuable airline, surpassing Southwest Airlines in terms of market capitalization. IndiGo's share price surge led to a market cap of $17.605 billion, placing it behind only Delta Air Lines and Ryanair. The airline operates 14,014 flights per week and recently placed an order for 500 A320neo family planes with Airbus. India is expected to become the center of world aviation in the next 15 years, with IndiGo being the only Indian carrier among the world's top 10 airlines.

Business Standard | Related IndiGo orders another 10 A320neo aircraft; takes undelivered backlog to 950 – Live from a Lounge

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How Qatar Airways Is Designing A More Personalized PaxEx

Qatar Airways is revolutionizing passenger experience through digital transformation. The airline has armed 15,000 cabin crew members with iPhones running an in-house app that provides real-time insights about flight, guest, and service information. This enables personalized service and streamlined issue resolution. Qatar Airways is also a launch customer for Panasonic Avionics' Astrova IFE system. The airline aims to enhance personalization while maintaining a human touch and ensuring privacy across all passenger touch-points.

Runway Girl Network | Related Qatar Airways’ AI human cabin crew heralds new era in aviation – Fast Company

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All Nippon Airways To Offer Free Inflight Wi-Fi In Business Class

All Nippon Airways (ANA) will offer complimentary inflight Wi-Fi for business class passengers on international flights starting this summer, with some exceptions for specific aircraft types. Premium economy and economy class passengers will receive free texting on international flights from the end of March 2025. ANA first introduced paid inflight Wi-Fi in 2014 and has since expanded the service to all domestic flights and complimentary Wi-Fi for first class passengers. The airline operates more than 210 aircraft, including over 80 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

Business Traveller | Related ANA says cluster of Wi-Fi installs impacted as SITA exits the business – Runway Girl Network

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Delta Makes History With Flights On Path Of Totality

Delta Air Lines made history by flying along the path of totality during a total solar eclipse for the first time since its inception. Two flights, DL 1218 from Austin and DL 1010 from Dallas Fort Worth, delivered optimal views of the eclipse to passengers en route to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. Captains Phillip Marshall and Phil Daniels were selected to fly the DL 1218 route, and they prepared meticulously in a flight simulator to ensure precision and timing. Delta prioritized safety while providing passengers with a unique and memorable experience.

PAX International | Related Delta passengers get engaged mid-flight while seeing total solar eclipse from 30,000 feet — CBS News

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Qantas Hikes Domestic Excess Baggage Fees

Qantas is implementing changes to its domestic baggage fees starting April 18. Travelers checking in an extra bag on top of their included allowance will face a charge of $130 per bag at the airport, up from the previous $100. Pre-booked additional bags will also increase from $50 to $65 per piece. These changes apply only to domestic flights and not international trips. Qantas' domestic fares include one checked bag up to 23kg in economy or two bags weighing up to 32kg each in business class, with higher allowances for frequent flyers.

Executive Traveller | Related Qantas hikes airport lounge membership by 17% to 80% – Executive Traveller

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Flying Food Group Participates In IFSA Student Scholarships

Flying Food Group (FFG) participates in the International Flight Services Association (IFSA) and its annual academic scholarships. In 2023, FFG helped distribute over 25 scholarships totaling more than $129,800. The Sue Ling Gin Charitable Trust, associated with FFG, offers a notable $25,000 scholarship annually, which was awarded to Jessica Baumgart in 2023. Over the last few years, FFG has donated more than $100,000 to recipients across the United States. IFSA has impacted more than 338 individuals globally, awarding scholarships exceeding $1.6 million, focusing on students seeking careers in the catering, onboard services, and airline passenger experience sectors.

PAX International | Related Flying Food Group's membership in IFSA supports scholarships, empowers students worldwide – Ground News

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Global Airlines & Blacklane To Offer Complimentary Airport Rides For First & Business Travellers

Global Airlines has announced a partnership with Blacklane, the premiere global chauffeur service provider, as the airline prepares for its first phase of commercial operations. The partnership will offer 'to-and-from' airport transfers for First and Business passengers, while all Global Traveller passengers will receive exclusive perks such as discounts and special offers. Blacklane operates in over 50 countries, providing a luxurious, reliable, and stress-free door-to-door experience. The company is committed to sustainability, aiming to make 50% of its fleet electric by 2025.

Travel Daily Media | Related Global Airlines and Blacklane to Offer Complimentary Airport Rides for First and Business Travellers – PR Newswire

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today's picture comes from @alisson.aviation, showing an Azul Linhas Aéreas Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.

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

> Tweet of the Day

14 WEEKS???? >>> Now it all makes sense as to why/how SQ can consistently rank high. There’s a cultural component as well. Inside the grueling 14-week flight attendant training at one of the world’s top-ranked airlines https://thepointsguy.com/news/singapore-airlines-training/ #paxex

SLy @solitarybrother

Association News

Celebration of Life Confirmed for Industry Journalist, Tomás Romero

Following the publication of industry journalist Tomás Romero's obituary in February, APEX can announce that his Celebration of Life will take place at American Legion Post 43 in Los Angeles from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM on April 28, 2024. Parking is limited; ride sharing is encouraged for in-town guests.To RSVP, please email Tomás’ brother, Ryan Romero.

> Quote of the Day

"If you add domestic traffic growth, the GDP growth in the country, recapturing a lot of international traffic from other international airports, and establishing India as a connecting place in the world, I think the prospects of Indian aviation are very bright, well beyond what we are seeing today."

Edward Delahaye, Head of Customer Accounts for India & South Asia, Airbus
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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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