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October 5, 2020

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Today's Top Stories

Introducing APEX’s New Website & Branding

APEX is proud to unveil our refreshed brand identity and website. The new brand, developed by Bookmark, and website, created by Kellen, both launched today. The upgraded website provides richer events, membership and awards sections. An enhanced industry news section also features new categories that align with the association’s objectives. Click through for insights from APEX’s key stakeholders behind the new brand and website.

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OneWeb Secures Court Approvals for Bankruptcy Sale

Satellite operator OneWeb moved closer to emerging from bankruptcy last week. The US Court overseeing its reorganization approved the billion-dollar deal for Bharti Global and the UK Government to purchase the company’s assets and resume operations. While this does not complete the transaction – “customary regulatory approvals” remain pending – it does open the door to the resumption of satellite production and launch. A revised plan with Arianespace should see the next batch of satellites orbited in December, and a steady cadence thereafter as the company moves to launch commercial service in 2021.

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AirAsia Japan Ceases Operations

AirAsia Japan halted operations on Monday, citing an uncertain outlook on the industry’s recovery as it cancelled all future flights. The carrier's COO, Jun Aida, stated, “It would be an extremely challenging feat for us to continue operating without any visibility and certainty of a post-pandemic recovery path” in announcing the move. The company had previously suspended all flights but resumed some operations in August, wherein it operated three aircraft on four routes.

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Virgin Atlantic to Launch Crew COVID Testing Scheme

Virgin Atlantic is the first UK-based carrier to launch pre-flight COVID testing of its cabin crew, with flights to Hong Kong and Shanghai now covered. Other routes will be added by the end of the month with a goal of eventually testing all crew at least monthly. The company partnered with GeneMe UK to offer a lab-free test that delivers results digitally in under 30 minutes. Corneel Koster, the airline’s chief customer and operating officer, notes that the testing is designed to instill passenger confidence and also hopefully inspire regulators to shift from quarantine to testing regulations as it hopes to restore traffic demand in key markets.

Breaking Travel News | Related Honeywell Helping Improve Air Travel Health And Safety With New Safety Packs For Passengers And Crew — PR Newswire

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Singapore Airlines Launches Digital Connection Service

Travelers connecting to Singapore Airlines flights in London Heathrow Airport's Terminal 2 from other Star Alliance partners can now receive updated walking directions and other details on their mobile device. The Star Alliance Connection Service launched in 2017 to help passengers on tight connections get quickly from one flight to the next. With this digital transition, the services are made available in a mobile app rather than airport staff escorting travelers through the terminal. While Heathrow is the launch site, the service will expand to other airports and other airlines in the future.

Business Traveller | Related Singapore Airlines (SIA) has become the launch airline for the digital version of the Star Alliance Connection Service — SIA

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Delhi Airport Adds Virtual Reality Theater to Terminal

Delhi International Airport's Terminal 3 has a new entertainment option available for travelers. A mini-planetarium theatre is now active, projecting short films in an immersive setting. The videos are seven to 15 minutes in duration and available for groups up to eight, ensuring appropriate spacing for passengers. The facility is open 24/7 with up to 80 viewers per day in the initial trial period.

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Dufry, Alibaba Team Up for China Retailing Push

Airport retail giant Dufry will work with China’s Alibaba group to expand its footprint in China. Alibaba will invest up to 250 million CHF for a 9.9% stake in Dufry, while Dufry commits to using a significant portion of the funds to build a joint venture in China, 51% owned by Alibaba. The deal is part of roughly 700 million CHF in funding Dufry is expected to raise through new share issues this week. The companies will leverage Alibaba’s strong digital commerce background as they seek to transform the Dufry Group’s massive traditional retail footprint of 2,500 shops across 65 countries into the modern era.

Moodie Davitt Report | Related Online shopping above the clouds — Lufthansa Group

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Adobong bangus (soy-braised milkfish) with garlic fried rice for breakfast. Goes well with mango juice.

This week, we're featuring photos captured by @notatravelbloggr, which were included in the April/May 2020 issue of #APEXExperienceMag.

> Tweet of the Day

#NEWS: As promised, @SouthwestAir content is live now on the Amadeus Travel Platform. We’re excited to expand our partnership, offer a unique experience to corporate travel advisors and support business travelers as they return to the skies.

Amadeus @AmadeusITGroup

Association News

New Exhibitors Sign Up For FTE APEX Virtual Expo

As FTE APEX Virtual Expo draws near, more exhibitors and sponsors are signing up to take part. Inmarsat Aviation is a new Diamond event partner, while Incheon Airport, Dormakaba, Avilabs, Claims Handling Solutions and other have all secured their participation. The exhibition hall will also host our biggest-ever showcase of startups thanks to the FTE Innovation & Startup Hub, which now supports more than 335 of the air transport industry’s most exciting new businesses. View the full exhibitor list and see who will demo their products and services to senior decision-makers from airlines, airports and their partners.

> Quote of the Day

"We did introduce lower-cost packages and text-only packages because people do want to be in touch more."

Patrick Brannelly, Emirates
Read the article

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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