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October 28, 2020

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Today's Top Stories

Consortium Pushes ATG Option for In-Flight Connectivity

Following a successful rollout across Europe, Thales UK, Nokia and SkyFive are launching a new 4G LTE air-to-ground (ATG) solution globally. “The project will bring industry-disrupting performance … with reliable Wi-Fi and low transmission latency delivered with low upfront investment and operational costs,” said Andy Humphries, managing director of Flight Avionics at Thales UK. While the offering has made some inroads for network testing and deployment in Saudi Arabia and China, the companies are still looking for a true commitment to deploy the system.

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Airlines, Airports Face Mounting Losses, Seek More Support

Airline trade group IATA has suggested that 2021 will be worse than expected, noting that even slashing 52% of staffing costs would not be enough to bring the industry to break-even. The news was part of a renewed push for government funding to help the industry bridge the gap as it tries to return to profitability. Similarly, ACI Europe reported that nearly 200 airports across the continent are at risk. “Eight months into the crisis, all of Europe’s airports are burning through cash to remain open, with revenues far from covering the costs of operations, let alone capital costs,” ACI Europe's director-general Olivier Jankovec said in a statement.

Moodie Davitt Report | Related Almost 200 European airports face insolvency, airports body ACI Europe says — Reuters

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Aireon Expands Aviation Data Service Offerings

Aireon is looking to broaden the customer base for its high-fidelity Air Traffic Services (ATS) surveillance-grade data. The company launched a trio of new offerings, AireonFLOW, AireonINSIGHTS and AireonSTREAM, targeting air navigation service providers, aircraft and fleet operators, tracking systems, financial institutions, insurance companies and the air traffic management industry as a whole. The services take advantage of the massive data collection environment Aireon runs via ADS-B receivers hosted on the Iridium NEXT satellite constellation. The platform entered service with ANSPs in 2018.

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Boeing Slashes More Jobs as Recovery Troubles Loom

Another rough quarter for Boeing ends with the company planning to slash thousands more jobs. With a recovery in the commercial aviation market now likely years off, the OEM expects to reduce its head count to 130,000 by the end of 2021. The company employed 160,000 people at the end of 2019. Boeing also reported $449 million in losses in Q3, down from a profit of $1.17 billion in 2019.

Chicago Tribune | Related Trade body rules EU can put tariffs on $4 billion of U.S. goods — Travel Weekly

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WestJet to Open Elevation Lounge in Calgary on November 2

WestJet passengers traveling through the carrier’s largest hub will have a new, luxurious option for relaxing starting next week. The Elevation Lounge opens on Monday, featuring 9,300 square feet of space, panoramic views and locally inspired details. Multiple seating areas allow for working, relaxation or even a shower before departure. The food offering highlights local, seasonal ingredients. In addition to those flying on business-class tickets, access can be gained through loyalty program status, lounge membership clubs or paid entry at the door.

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JSX Brings Newest 30-Seat Configuration to Texas

Boutique point-to-point carrier JSX will bring its newest aircraft configuration to its Houston-Dallas route as it joins in on the highly competitive market starting in November. The carrier reconfigured some of its Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft with just 30 seats in a 1-1 layout, providing significantly more personal space for passengers. The type typically carries 50 seats for most airlines and 44 in the JSX operation, but the airline removed additional seats as part of its response to the COVID pandemic.

The Points Guy | Related JSX launching charter-style flights from Reno to Burbank this month — RGJ

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ELeather Realizes Recycling Certification

The ELeather Group received certification to the Recycled Claim Standard level from Control Union Certifications, validating that its materials contain a significant portion of recycled leather. The company uses “offcuts” from the industry (pieces with discoloration, scuff marks or other minor faults), and integrates them into its production process. With up to 55% of the materials coming from recycled sources, the company continues to reduce waste in the overall product lifecycle.

eleather group | Related Wizz Air selects ELeather for 32,000 new seat deal — Inflight-Online

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

This costume is really taking off! Posted by @super_scooty (via Instagram).

The countdown to Halloween is on! This week we’re featuring photos that showcase aviation during the spooky season.

> Tweet of the Day

We’ve reached new heights this month! On Oct. 8, we saw our busiest travel day since the start of the pandemic with 7,000+ departing passengers. We also recorded our busiest travel week between Oct. 12 – 18. Looking forward to continued safe travels through the holidays!

Pittsburgh International Airport @PITairport

Association News

Have An Opinion on a Hot-Button Aviation Topic? Submit an Op-Ed!

APEX Media is accepting op-eds as part of a new series called Expert Opinions aimed at spotlighting informed views on current industry trends. If you would like to participate, email editor@apex.aero with your idea.

> Quote of the Day

“Partnering to keep people safe and healthy in the airport is key to restoring confidence in travel.”

Mike Salzman, URW Airports
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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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