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August 29, 2023

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Today's Top Stories

Dubai Airport (DXB) Plans Major Expansion & Refresh

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is set for a 6-10 billion AED ($1.63-2.72 billion) expansion over seven years to enhance its status as the world's busiest international hub. The project focuses on increasing passenger capacity, improving lounges, service delivery, and introducing smart technology. The revamp won't entail building new terminals, but rather optimizing existing space for a better passenger experience. This development raises questions about Dubai World Central Airport (DWC), Dubai's second airport. Despite earlier plans for Emirates to relocate there, DWC remains primarily a cargo and low-cost carrier hub, and any bigger plans for DWC won't now happen until the next decade.

One Mile at a Time | Related

DXB Airport to undergo Dhs6 - Dhs10 billion upgrade and expansion - What's on Dubai

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Significant disruption continues at UK airports

UK airports experienced significant disruption due to a rare national air traffic control technical glitch, causing over 1,500 flights to be canceled. The issue, the most severe in almost a decade, stranded travelers across the UK and abroad. Heathrow and Luton airports advised passengers to check their flight status, while Gatwick and Stansted aimed to maintain normal schedules. Transport Secretary Mark Harper confirmed that the incident wasn't a cyber attack and announced an independent review. National Air Traffic Services fixed the problem and collaborated with airlines. Affected passengers voiced frustration over canceled plans, while major airlines warned of delays lasting into the week.

Evening Standard | Related

'Technical Issue' Leaves Thousands of UK Airline Passengers Stranded - Gizmodo

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American Airlines fined for 'excessive tarmac delays'

American Airlines has been fined $4.1 million by U.S. aviation regulators for violating federal laws regarding excessive tarmac delays. The Department of Transportation's investigation revealed that from 2018 to 2021, the airline allowed 43 domestic flights to remain on the tarmac for what the DoT says was extended periods, impacting 5,821 passengers. The delays occurred mostly at DFW International Airport, with thunderstorms and operational issues cited as causes. While American Airlines cited exceptional weather conditions, it says it has implemented strategies to minimize such delays, including real-time routing tools and "smart gating technology."

Dallas Morning News | Related DOT issues largest-ever fine to American Airlines for tarmac delays - CNN

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TSA PreCheck® program adds four new airlines

The TSA PreCheck® program has expanded by adding Cayman Airways, French bee, Titan Air, and Zipair, increasing the number of participating airlines to 90. This program offers expedited screening to low-risk travelers at over 200 U.S. airports, allowing them to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and items like laptops and liquids in their bags. About 99% of PreCheck passengers in dedicated lanes wait less than 10 minutes at checkpoints. U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA PreCheck, receiving a "Known Traveler Number" for expedited security screening. The expansion also permits teenagers to accompany enrolled parents or guardians through PreCheck.

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Porter Airlines launches mobile app

Porter Airlines has introduced a mobile app to enhance passenger self-service options. The app offers features such as check-in, seat selection, baggage management, flight changes, boarding passes, and real-time flight notifications. As Porter expands into new markets, the app aims to provide ease and convenience, allowing passengers to take control of their journey and communication. The app showcases Porter's distinctive design and mascot, the Mr. Porter raccoon. It is available for download on the App Store and Google Store, and the airline says it is a sign of its commitment to elevating the passenger experience.

Runway Girl | Related

Fast-growing Porter Airlines adds 7 new routes to Florida - The Points Guy

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Vistara dumps data caps, adds streaming to inflight internet

Vistara has updated its in-flight internet pricing, eliminating data caps and introducing a premium package supporting all streaming protocols. Formerly, there were messaging and browsing options with basic or premium tiers, capped at 200 MB. The new premium browsing plan removes data caps, making it more attractive. A higher-priced streaming option is available too. The messaging option remains in between basic and old premium tiers. Business class and elite passengers maintain a 50 MB free session. The changes coincide with Panasonic Avionics' increased satellite connectivity, potentially expanding options for passengers, particularly for streaming services.

PAXEX.aero | Related

Vistara launches new Maldives route - Business Traveller

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Zurich Airport may extend runway towards Germany

Zurich Airport has gained approval from the cantonal parliament to extend two runways towards the German border. One of the runways, Runway 32, will be extended by 280 meters in a northerly direction. While the airport claims the extension won't affect the noise experienced by residents of the nearby German village of Hohentengen during the day, it plans to use the extended runway for more take-offs of long-haul aircraft in the morning and evening, potentially leading to increased noise during those periods. The government of the German state of Baden-Württemberg opposes the project, fearing an increase in take-offs and landings.

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Today’s picture features a Lufthansa A380 in Boston, via Rolf Haarmann Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

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APEX @theAPEXassoc

Association News

APEX/IFSA Global EXPO - Register now!

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> Quote of the Day

“The short-term goal is to invest significant amounts in expanding the operation at Dubai International Airport. There will come a period where you’ve used all of the available capacity at DXB, plus the 32 million passengers annually we’ve got at DWC. Beyond that phase, we are going to have to look at the longer term for the new airport by the mid-2030s.”

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths
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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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