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August 15, 2023

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Today's Top Stories

American Airlines And Google Successfully Trial Contrail Reduction

American Airlines and Google have successfully reduced contrails made by jets by over 54% in a small trial. Contrails, once viewed as harmless water vapor, trap heat in the atmosphere and may contribute more to global warming than vehicular emissions. The trial involved modifying about 70 flight paths to avoid contrail formation, but this led to a 2% increase in fuel consumption. Despite the increase in fuel use, the study represents an important step in understanding and mitigating aviation’s climate impact.

The Dallas Morning News | Related AI helps airline pilots avoid areas that create polluting contrails - The Guardian

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IAG And Microsoft Announce Joint Sustainable Aviation Fuel Purchase

International Airlines Group (IAG) and Microsoft have announced a joint purchase agreement for 14,700 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from Phillips 66 Limited’s Humber refinery. The agreement is part of IAG’s target to meet 10% of its fuel needs from SAF by 2030, and Microsoft’s goal to become carbon negative by 2030. The fuel will be used by IAG member carriers operating from London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports in 2023. Both parties claim it’s the largest co-funded SAF agreement globally.

Business Traveller | Related Microsoft agrees deal with IAG to co-fund SAF purchase - Business Travel News

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Cases Of Unruly Airline Passenger Behavior Drop By 80%

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that cases of unruly airline passenger behavior have dropped by 80% since peaking in 2021. In 2023, there have been 1,117 instances, compared to 5,973 in 2021. The decrease is largely attributed to the reduction in COVID-related stress and protocols, such as mask-wearing. Twenty-two particularly serious cases were recently referred to the FBI, including physical assault and sexual misconduct. Since partnering with the FBI in 2021, the FAA has referred about 270 cases.

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Viasat Considers Options Should ViaSat-3 Americas Fix Remain Elusive

Viasat is conducting a review of an anomaly that occurred during the deployment of an antenna on its ViaSat-3 Americas satellite. The California-based satellite operator assured that it can manage its backlog of inflight connectivity business without a major mitigation strategy for airlines. Some service level agreements might see changes for specific customers, but Viasat is leveraging its acquisition of Inmarsat and has executed contracts with other Ka-band satellite broadband operators as a precaution. The ViaSat-3 Americas satellite is insured for about $420 million.

Runway Girl Network | Related Eyes on Viasat as it readies to update market on ViaSat-3 Americas - Runway Girl Network

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Ryanair Introduces Innovative Twilight Bag Drop Service And Rescue Tickets

Ryanair, the UK’s leading airline, has introduced a new twilight bag drop service at Manchester Airport for passengers on early-morning flights. Travelers can now drop off their checked luggage between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm the night before flights departing up to 8:00 am. This free service aims to simplify the travel experience for passengers, especially for families or groups. Additionally, Ryanair is offering low-cost rescue tickets for Albanian visitors affected by Wizz Air’s recent UK route cuts.

Jetline Marvel | Related Ryanair launches twilight bag drop service at Manchester airport - Business Traveller

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Flair Airlines Will Save Canadian Passengers $300 Million This Year

Flair Airlines, a Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier, aims to save passengers at least $300 million in 2023 through what it calls the “Flair Effect.” The forecast builds on 2022 data, which showed savings of over $250 million for travelers. The “Flair Effect” calculates the airline’s influence on overall market affordability, and the savings on Flair's fares. Additionally, Flair is partnering with Blue Ribbon Bags to provide a service for travelers to locate lost or delayed bags more efficiently, costing an additional $5.99.

Simple Flying | Related Flair Airlines Strong Performance Continues In July - Airways Magazine

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Hamad International Rolls Out Digital Wayfinding QR Codes

Hamad International Airport in Qatar has introduced digital wayfinding QR codes throughout its terminal to enhance passenger experience. Travelers can scan these codes with their mobile devices to navigate to various points of interest in the airport. The QR codes are accessible across flight information display screens, digital assistance kiosks, and other key locations. The feature is part of the airport’s ongoing digital transformation strategy aimed at improving operations and the overall airport journey for passengers.

Passenger Terminal Today | Related Hamad International rolls out ‘frictionless wayfinding’ experience - TR Business

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today’s picture comes from @lgb_spotting, showing a Horizon Air Embraer E175 aircraft.

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

> Tweet of the Day

Making buying a bottle of water a lot easier at Dublin Airport https://economyclassandbeyond.boardingarea.com/2023/08/13/making-buying-water-a-lot-easier-at-dublin-airport/ #bottledwater #PaxEx #DublinAirport

Kevin - Economy Class & Beyond @EconomyBeyond

Association News

APEX/IFSA Global EXPO - Register now!

APEX/IFSA Global EXPO, co-located with FTE Global, is where the largest gathering of airline executives from around the world come together to network, forge new partnerships, share unique insights, collaborate and meet with the top exhibitors demonstrating the latest innovation and technology. Join us in Los Angeles for the most comprehensive end-to-end airline passenger experience marketplace in the industry from 19-21 September. Register now - Click here for more details.

> Quote of the Day

“Avoiding contrails might be one of the best ways to limit aviation’s climate impact, and now we have a clear demonstration that it’s possible to do so."

Marc Shapiro, Breakthrough Energy’s Director of Contrail Studies
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The next newsletter will be out 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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