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November 3, 2021

SES, Isotropic Systems Complete Multi-Orbit Field Tests

Isotropic Systems’ multi-link antenna has undergone field tests at SES’s teleport in Virginia, during which it established multiple simultaneous, full-performance connections with SES satellites, including a geostationary satellite and an O3b satellite in medium-Earth orbit. This paves the way for pilots to connect to the optimal satellites for navigation and ground communications while passengers connect to separate satellites for entertainment purposes. John Finney, Isotropic Systems’ founder and CEO, said, “This test proves space is now open, as we mesh networks together in a way that is unparalleled, without compromise.”

Inflight Online | Related SES-17 Successfully Launched on Ariane 5 – SES

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Air Canada Reinstates Order for Two A220s, Speeds MAX Deliveries

During a discussion about its third-quarter results, Air Canada revealed that due to improved performance it has reversed a decision to cancel some of its Airbus A220 order. The carrier will receive two A220-300s that were part of an order for 12 of the type canceled in November 2020. It is also accelerating the delivery of four Boeing 737 MAXs into the fourth quarter of 2021. Air Canada currently has an outstanding order for nine of the type with the OEM and will receive the remaining five by the end of the second quarter of 2022, bringing its total 737 MAX fleet to 40 aircraft.

Simple Flying | Related Air Canada suspends over 800 unvaccinated employees under new COVID-19 rules – Global News

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Spafax Studio Launched to Create Custom Digital Experiences

Spafax Studio, the creative branch of Spafax’s content technology practice, launched earlier this year. It works “across branding, branded content, PR, digital, social and experiential and partnership campaigns,” said Jessica Sammut, Spafax’s director, Corporate Communications. Recent projects include developing creative branding and content for Heathrow Express TV and producing a safety video for Etihad Airways. Additionally, the company has launched a podcast offering insights into the future of out-of-home marketing, travel media and onboard entertainment.

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Emirates to Upcycle Cabin Interior of its First Retired A380

Emirates’ first retired Airbus A380 aircraft will be partially upcycled in partnership with UAE-based Falcon Aircraft Recycling to reduce the environmental impact of the aircraft deconstruction process and minimize landfill waste. Instead of focusing solely on recovering profitable components, the project will see the A380’s onboard bar and other cabin features transformed into bespoke furniture, aviation memorabilia and retail items by another UAE-based company, Wings Craft. A portion of profits from sales will go to the Emirates Airline Foundation, which helps disadvantaged children.

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September Figures Show Travel Demand Increasing, Says IATA

The international Air Transport Association (IATA) said that September 2021 saw a moderate rebound in passenger numbers across domestic markets in comparison to August. Overall demand in September was down 53.4% from September 2019 levels, an uptick from August when demand was 56% below 2019. While international demand declined during the same period, domestic markets, particularly in China where travel curbs were lifted, drove recovery. “September’s performance is a positive development but recovery in international traffic remains stalled,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general.

International Airport Review | Related Border Closures Threaten Hong Kong's Financial Hub Status – BBC

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Alaska, Boxed Water to Eliminate 1.8m Pounds of Plastics Per Year

Starting November 4, Alaska Airlines (Alaska) will begin using Boxed Water’s 92% plant-based cartons in its main cabin and replace plastic cups with the brand’s recyclable paper cups during its water service. The airline trialed Boxed Water in first class during early 2021 and surveys showed passengers preferred the product over plastic water bottles at a rate of two-to-one. The in-flight water service is Alaska’s largest contributor to onboard plastic waste, but over the next year this change will eliminate 22 million plastic cups and 32 million plastic bottles, saving approximately 1.8 million pounds of single-use plastics.

PR Newswire | Related EasyJet Gets Plastic Bottle Polyester Uniforms – Runway Girl Network

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LGW to Roll Out Veovo’s Passenger Predictability Solution

London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is to deploy Veovo’s Passenger Predictability solution, which uses artificial intelligence to monitor passenger movement in airport security areas in real-time. Designed to provide metrics including waiting times, occupancy and passenger throughput, Veovo’s solution can help airport staff forecast bottlenecks and prepare plans for new lane openings accordingly, preventing congestion and lowering wait times. The platform is not tied to any proprietary sensor technology, so can aggregate data from any source.

Airport Technology | Related CVG Airport adopts data-driven passenger flow management system – Future Travel Experience

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Winglet Wednesdays with a GOL Boeing 737. Captured by @isaque_aviation.

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

> Tweet of the Day

Congratulations to @airfrance and their inaugural #A220 flight – Paris to Berlin! We are proud to again support with our Meridian main class seating and full complement of galley inserts.

Collins Aerospace @CollinsAero

Association News

In Loving Memory of Joseph J. (Joe) Barber Jr

Joseph J. (Joe) Barber Jr, 87, former Chairman of Cinemagnetics, Inc. (CMI) passed away peacefully on October 31, 2021 at his home in Quogue, NY. A pioneer in the film and in-flight entertainment industries, Joe joined CMI as a technician in 1962 before going on to become its principal owner. He led the company through the transition from film to videotape to digital media services, and was the recipient of the APEX Lifetime Achievement Award. Joe was beloved by all who knew him as a caring and generous colleague and friend who loved life. Cards and condolences can be sent to Monique Barber, PO Box 1561, Quogue, NY 11959-1561.

> Quote of the Day

“We believe that delivering digital experiences is the future of entertainment.”

Jessica Sammut, Spafax
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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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