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May 26, 2021

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Today's Top Stories

Delta to Add Viasat IFC to 230+ More Aircraft

In 2022, Delta will begin retrofitting Viasat’s Ka-band in-flight connectivity (IFC) solution on an additional 230+ domestic narrow-body aircraft, including select Airbus A319, A320ceo, A321neo, A220-300 and Boeing 737-800 jets. This is in addition to the 300+ aircraft Delta said it would install with Viasat’s IFC in January 2021. In total, Delta is outfitting over 550 jets with the solution. "Delta is validating how the system can scale," said Don Buchman, Viasat’s VP and general manager, Commercial Aviation.

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AirFi Integrates with Transferz Ground Transport Booking Engine

AirFi has integrated the Transferz taxi booking platform into its wireless in-flight entertainment (IFE) platform so that passengers can book airport transfers via their electronic devices during flights. Payments can be made online or offline, with Transferz guaranteeing to provide a ride from any airport in its network in as little as 20 minutes. The companies claim the tie-up is a source of ancillary revenue for airlines and offers peace of mind for passengers. The Transferz application can be added to existing AirFi customers’ IFE portals, and will be a pre-integrated for new customers.

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Rwandair Receives Diamond Health Safety Certification

RwandAir has become the first African airline to receive a Diamond-level certification following the APEX Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying audit. “As Rwanda’s doors are now open for tourism, we look forward to welcoming passengers from around the world to experience the country’s natural wonders while staying safe and healthy,” said Rwandair’s CEO, Yvonne Manzi Makolo. APEX/IFSA CEO, Dr. Joe Leader, added, “RwandAir proves that reaching this level of health safety does not depend upon the size of the airline, but rather the incredibly proactive steps taken for customer and staff wellbeing.”

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Startup Flypop Selects Bluebox Aviation for Wireless IFE

Bluebox Aviation is to provide its Bluebox Wow wireless in-flight entertainment (IFE) system to UK startup airline Flypop, which is on target to launch operations with its first Airbus A330 aircraft in October and hopes to add an additional aircraft to its fleet every six months thereafter. Passengers will have to purchase access to IFE content before the flight or once they’re on board. They can use the system to order and pay for food and beverage or in-flight retail products touch-free, and Bluebox will enable additional ancillary revenue-generating content, such as Gladi8tor Gaming, through LXM Group.

Bluebox Aviation | Related Bluebox delivers Wireless IFE on Airbus OSP – Aviation Business News

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Aeroflot Receives First A320neo

Aeroflot is the first Russian carrier to take delivery of an Airbus A320neo. The aircraft is equipped with 12 business-class seats offering a 38-inch pitch and 144 economy-class seats with a 30-inch pitch. The latter feature an ergonomic backrest and adjustable headrest with neck support. Each economy-class seat is also equipped with in-seat power and a tablet holder. Business-class passengers have access to 13-inch HD monitors as well as the wireless in-flight entertainment system. By the end of this year, Aeroflot hopes to receive a further eight A320neos from Airbus.

Russian Aviation | Related Air Serbia and Aeroflot expand partnership – EX-YU Aviation

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Astronics Adds Antimicrobial Formulation to Power Outlets

From early 2022, all of Astronics’ EmPower in-seat power Outlet Units – including its 110VAC, Type A USB, Type C USB and combination models – will be available as antimicrobial products. All the units have been tested to ISO22196, the “Test for Antimicrobial Activity of Plastics.” Dennis Markert, director of Business Development at Astronics, explained, “We began reimagining our products early on in light of the pandemic. We recognised that, in addition to the many safety features already included in our Outlet Units, providing anti-microbial touchpoints would benefit the entire supply chain as well as airlines’ and passengers.”

Inflight Online | Related Emirates airline trials super long-lasting antiviral spray to kill coronavirus traces – The National

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Stansted Welcomes $99-Million Baggage Handling System

After four years’ development, London Stansted Airport is now operating a low-energy, fully automated baggage system designed by Beumer Group, which it claims is the longest of its type in the world. With a track covering 2.4 kilometers and 180 carts, the $99-million system operates at speeds of up to five meters per second, taking around six minutes to transport bags from check-in to being ready to load onto the aircraft. Klaus Schäfer, CEO at Beumer Group UK, said the system “places Stansted in the league of modern airports known for ... increas[ing] baggage traceability and security at every stage of the handling process.”

Business Traveller | Related Vanderlande Delivers ICS Baggage Handling System to Los Angeles International Airport – Aviation Pros

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Transavia's old livery. Captured by @romain_spotter_lfpo.

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

> Tweet of the Day

#Travel is *really* back. This plane is packed and I’ve already had two people ask me to switch my seat (for a middle both times). Is it weird that I actually missed this? #paxex #letsgo

Aunt Benét @AvQueenBenet

Association News

Job Alert: Account Manager, West Entertainment

West Entertainment is looking for a positive and passionate Account Manager for the world of in-flight entertainment. You will support the Account Director in servicing one of the world’s leading airlines with their entertainment needs and ensuring their long-term success. Fluent Japanese language is preferred, but not essential. The position’s location is flexible, but service hours are JST (Japan Standard Time). To find out more, please email talent@westent.com.

> Quote of the Day

"For Flair Airlines, becoming a marketplace supports their overall brand proposition of promoting Canada and Canadian companies from the destinations they service."

Bayram Annakov, LiFE in the Air
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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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