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October 29, 2020

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Today's Top Stories

Harvard Study Finds Flying Poses Low COVID Risk

A report funded by Airlines for America and carried out by the Harvard School of Public Health has found that following the introduction of mandatory mask-wearing, intensified cleaning measures and revised boarding procedures, “there has been little evidence … of onboard disease transmission.” Even on a full flight, the report said that when a passenger is masked in their seat, an average of just 0.003% of air particles in the breathing zone around their head are infectious. However, the TSA has revealed that 98 air marshals have contracted COVID-19, with the president of the Air Marshal National Council stating in some cases, “we know they got it flying.”

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United, LaGuardia Offer Passengers Free COVID-19 Tests

From November 16 to December 11, United Airlines will test every passenger over two years old traveling on Flight 14 between Newark Liberty International Airport and London Heathrow for COVID-19. The rapid tests will be carried out free of charge in collaboration with Premise Health on-site at Newark, but passengers will have to book appointments for at least three hours before their flight. Those unwilling to be tested will be placed on another flight. The airline will share the results of the trial with governments on both sides of the Atlantic. New York’s LaGuardia Airport is also now offering free COVID-19 tests on-site in partnership with NYC Health & Hospitals.

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COVID Will Revolutionize Premium Economy, Says Cabin Design Expert

In this instalment of APEX Media’s Op-Ed series, Expert Opinions, Matt Cleary, director of Industrial Design and co-founder of ACLA Studio, explains why the pandemic is a catalyst for innovation in the premium economy cabin. “A future PYC cabin that works harder to offer benefits in privacy as well as comfort, personal space and amenities will drive new growth in this market segment and attract more passengers,” he writes. Should Delta’s strategy of increasing the PYC capacity on its latest A350-900 aircraft prove to be the right decision and set a precedent for other airlines to follow, we are perhaps at a transition point whereby PYC cabin capacity is on the rise, he suggests.

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Airbus A330-800 Delivered to Launch Customer Kuwait Airways

Kuwait’s flag carrier received the first two Airbus A330-800neos ever delivered, and has six more of the type on order. “The A330neo is the right aircraft for Kuwait Airways in these challenging times,” said Airbus’ chief commercial officer, Christian Scherer. It can accommodate 203 passengers in economy class and features 32 lie-flat beds in business class. Globally, the A330-900 has proven to be more popular, but the range of the smaller -800 is 950 nautical miles greater. Airbus reported its nine-month financial results today, saying its cash containment is on track despite revenue falling. Net commercial aircraft orders totaled 300 and 341 aircraft were delivered.

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Zoom-Based Travel Show is Coming to Air Canada’s IFE

From January 2021, passengers traveling with Air Canada will be able to watch episodes of What’s on Your Post-Pandemic Bucket List? on the carrier’s enRoute in-flight entertainment (IFE) platform. The program was created by travel expert Lorraine Simpson on a shoestring budget using a COVID-19-related loan, and offers viewers a look at must-visit destinations by combining Zoom interviews with on-location footage. Special guests include the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda and world-renowned architect and designer Bill Bensley.

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Qantas Announces Scenic Flights to Somewhere

In response to the opening of more domestic borders in Australia, Qantas is offering a series of Scenic Flight Getaways, which include return flights and an overnight stay. The first, from December 5 to 6, will see 100 passengers experience a pre-flight champagne breakfast and a flight between Sydney and Uluru on a Boeing 737 including low-level flybys of Australian landmarks. Qantas has partnered with Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia to provide a memorable experience staying at Ayers Rock Resort’s premier hotel, Sails in the Desert, and a range of sightseeing activities. Economy-class tickets for the one-night getaway cost $1,730 while business-class tickets cost $2,286.

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Zotefoams Showcases More Versatile and Lightweight Product

Zotefoams expanded its F range of polyvinylidene fluoride foam. While the standard foam is used in window seals and soft-touch trim, the new product, called Zotek F OSU XR, has structural and semi-structural capabilities and can be used in the interior of seat pods, stowage lockers, rigid armrests and tray tables. James Bridges, director of High-Performance Products at Zotefoams, said the foam offers a 70% reduction in weight, and the XR range can reduce noise and vibration when replacing thinner thermoplastics.

Business Jet Interiors International | Related ZOTEK F is the optimal material for spacecraft interiors — Zotefoams

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Orange you happy it's almost Halloween? Captured by @parthsshah (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

COVID-19 put a damper on 2020, but it hasn’t slowed down our 2021 plans! We are still on track for global expansion in 2021 by opening our first international location. #growth #expansion #internationallocation #paxex #la #seatingrepair #seatrefurb #passengerexperience #MRO

Latitude Aero @LatitudeAero

Association News

The APEX Weekly Wrap Returns Tomorrow!

Don’t miss tomorrow’s episode of The Weekly Wrap, which features an interview with Simon Yaffe, director of Sales at BUZZ Products, about the company’s response to the pandemic and its continued focus on sustainability. Also discussed is IATA’s Global Accessibility Symposium, ANA’s restructuring plans and more. Subscribe to the APEX YouTube channel or watch previous episodes.

Secure Your Custom Video Interview With APEX Media Before Tomorrow!

In September, APEX Media announced its exciting plans for Virtual EXPO Show Dailies and custom video interviews for the FTE APEX Virtual EXPO taking place from December 8-9. This is your last chance to secure your very own video interview, prepared with for you with skill by APEX Media’s experienced team. The final day to reserve a video is tomorrow. Contact Stephanie Taylor now to book yours!

> Quote of the Day

"The project will bring industry disrupting performance for passengers and airlines alike."

Andy Humphries, Thales UK
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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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