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May 17, 2022

New Government to Privatize Sri Lankan Airlines

Sri Lanka’s new government plans to sell Sri Lankan Airlines to stem ongoing losses. In a televised announcement just days before the nation is set to formally default on foreign debt, the country’s Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe stated, “It should not be that this loss has to be borne by the poorest of the poor who have not set foot in an aircraft.” The national carrier has a fleet of 25 Airbus aircraft and flies to destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and South and Southeast Asia.

Executive Traveller | Related SriLankan Airlines asked delay aircraft lease plan by COPE – Economy Next

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Wizz Air to Form New Subsidiary in Malta

Low-cost carrier Wizz Air plans to set up a new airline subsidiary registered in Malta as part of its expansion plans in Europe. Wizz Air Malta is currently waiting on its air operator’s certificate, and air operator's license to be granted by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the Maltese Civil Aviation Authority and is expected to begin operations in October 2022. The airline’s aircraft would also be registered in Malta. Wizz Air also has plans to expand its services across Gulf countries.

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Panasonic Avionics to Provide Bamboo Airways IFEC

Bamboo Airways has selected Panasonic Avionics to provide inflight entertainment and connectivity systems (IFEC) for its Boeing 787-9 fleet. Panasonic Avionics will be installing its eX3 inflight entertainment system on the airline’s widebody fleet, with the aircraft expected to enter service in the next few weeks. EX3 features HD screens at each seat, complete with capacitive touch displays and handsets, and USB and laptop charging facilities. 18-inch HD screens will be installed in the business class cabin, while the premium economy- and economy-class cabins will feature 13-inch and 12-inch screens respectively.

Aviation Business News | Related Lufthansa taps FlightPath3D moving map for longhaul fleet – Runway Girl Network

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Plaza Premium Opens Lounge at Edinburgh Airport

Plaza Premium Group has opened its first Plaza Premium Lounge at Edinburgh Airport, its first in Scotland. The 670 square meter lounge has a capacity for 165 travelers. It features furniture from local suppliers, with subtle Scottish elements woven into the design, including tartan upholstery and local artwork referencing key Scottish landmarks and iconic imagery. It features the company’s first gin bar in collaboration with Edinburgh Gin, which is distilled in Edinburgh by Ian Macleod Distillers. Additionally, the lounge features a children’s area with shuffleboard, foosball, large screens, interactive wall games and a small climbing wall.

Passenger Terminal Today | Related Second Plaza Premium Lounge unveiled at Helsinki Airport – Moodie Davitt Report

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GOL’s COO Celso Ferrer to Take Over as CEO

Brazilian airline Gol has announced that its chief executive officer Paulo Kakinoff will be stepping down from the role, and chief operating officer Celso Ferrer will be the carrier's new CEO as of July 1. Ferrer has worked for the company since 2003, having also served as chief planning officer. Kakinoff, who had been Gol's CEO since 2012, will become a company board member. The news comes just a week after Gol announced its planned merger with Colombia's Avianca under the common holding company called Abra Group.

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Miami Airport to Have Largest Biometric Technology Rollout in US

Miami International Airport will have the largest rollout of biometric technology in the US after it installs biometric boarding systems at all of its 130+ gates, slated for completion in 2023. The program will use NEC’s biometric identity platform. The airport's use of biometric boarding follows the rollout of Simplified Arrival, the US Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) upgraded process for international arrivals that uses facial biometrics, as well as the airport and CBP’s successful pilot of biometric boarding with certain airlines.

Airways Magazine | Related Star Alliance biometrics platform goes live in Hamburg Airport – Future Travel Experience

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Analogic Deploys ConneCT CT System at ROC

Analogic has deployed its ConneCT Computed Tomography (CT) checkpoint security screening system at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC). The screening system allows airports and regulators to permit passengers to leave approved liquids and electronics in their baggage at the screening checkpoints. The security system was deployed in collaboration with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Checkpoint Property Screening System Program and is installed at the TSA checkpoint at the airport. Earlier this month, Analogic won contracts worth up to $781.2M from the TSA to procure and maintain 469 base and 469 full-size ConneCT checkpoint security screening systems at airports.

Airport Technology | Related TSA Awards Analogic Corporation up to $781 Million to Provide ConneCT Checkpoint CT Scanners to US Airports – Business Wire

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

An Alaska Airlines Aircraft in its spirit of the islands livery, originally designed by a high school student from Honolulu named Aaron Nee in 2013. Captured by @airplannie

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

> Tweet of the Day

#breaking @Delta Reverses Course, Will Allow Arriving Passengers to use Sky Club Lounges http://ow.ly/Pkyu50J9rjl #travel #biztravel #deltaskyclub #airportlounges #paxex

FreqBusinessTraveler @FreqBizTraveler

Association News

IFSA Scholarship Applications Close in Three Days

Applications for the IFSA Foundation scholarship program close in three days. The scholarship is available to all individuals employed by IFSA and APEX members, their families, and students pursuing a career in the catering and onboard services industry and the airline passenger experience industry. Scholarships range from $2,000 to $25,000 and may be used to cover tuition or any additional costs associated with college or educational opportunities. All prospective recipients must submit their applications by May 20, 2022. To read application requirements or to start your application click here.

> Quote of the Day

"There is an overwhelming desire to reunite with family and friends, take that well-earned holiday, or reconnect with clients and we are confident that 2022 will be a key year in travel’s recovery."

Gail Taylor, Edinburgh Airport
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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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