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November 3, 2023

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Today's Top Stories

JetBlue barred from AMS for Summer 2024 Season

Dutch authorities have blocked JetBlue from operating any flights to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport for the Summer 2024 season, leaving the airline's presence in Amsterdam in jeopardy. The decision comes after JetBlue fought to acquire take-off and landing slots at Schiphol and launched flights from New York and Boston to Amsterdam in August. The Dutch government is reducing the number of slots held by airlines operating at Schiphol to decrease flight movements and reduce noise pollution. In response, JetBlue has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation to bar Dutch flag carrier KLM from operating flights to New York JFK in a retaliatory measure. KLM argues that the capacity cuts and proposed countermeasures are unfair.

Paddle your own canoe | Related

JetBlue Barred From Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport for Summer 2024 Season - Bloomberg

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Lufthansa upbeat on travel demand as Q3 beats estimates

Lufthansa surprised the market with a positive outlook for the fourth quarter, as costs fell and bookings strengthened in anticipation of the Christmas holiday season. The German airline group reported quarterly profits slightly above analysts' consensus, driven by strong travel demand during the summer. While economic challenges, such as rising oil prices due to the Middle East conflict and recession risks, loom, Lufthansa's adjusted earnings before interest and tax for the third quarter reached €1.47 billion, a 31% increase year-on-year, exceeding expectations. The company anticipates a positive operating result for the fourth quarter, helping achieve its goal of over €2.6 billion in adjusted group EBIT for the full year 2023.

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Air Canada Becomes First Airline Globally to Offer Disney+ Originals Onboard

Air Canada has become the first airline globally to offer Disney+ Originals as part of its in-flight entertainment system. This collaboration with Disney enhances the airline's commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience, particularly for families. Passengers can now enjoy Disney+ Original series and films, including episodes of "Loki" Season 1 and "Obi-Wan Kenobi." The move complements Air Canada's ongoing partnerships with Disney, which have included a themed in-flight safety video and special liveries. The airline has been recognized for its family-friendly services and onboard entertainment, making it a top choice for travelers. Air Canada aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Cision | Related

Air Canada Becomes First Airline Globally to Offer Disney+ Originals Onboard - Little black book

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Qantas shareholders reject airline’s executive pay plans at fiery AGM

Qantas Airways shareholders have overwhelmingly rejected the airline's executive pay plans at its annual general meeting (AGM). Over 80% of votes against adopting the remuneration report exceeded the 25% required for a "strike." While this vote has no immediate consequences, under Australian law, if a second "strike" occurs in the following year, shareholders gain the right to vote on removing the board. The rejection follows a challenging year for Qantas, which faced lawsuits, sackings, and reputational damage. The airline's chairman acknowledged the "very clear message" from shareholders and promised further changes to restore trust in the company.

Straits Times | Related

Qantas chairman heckled by shareholders at AGM as investors reject executive pay plans - Guardian

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Garuda flies on palm oil biofuel

Indonesia has successfully conducted its inaugural commercial flight using palm oil-blended jet fuel. The Garuda Indonesia Boeing 737-800NG flew from Jakarta to Surakarta, covering approximately 550 km (342 mi). This achievement followed several tests conducted by Garuda, including a flight test and an engine ground test, in preparation for the use of the new fuel. The palm oil-blended jet fuel, produced by state energy firm PT Pertamina at its Cilacap refinery, utilizes hydroprocessed esters and fatty acid (HEFA) technology and refined bleached deodorized palm kernel oil. According to Pertamina, this fuel emits fewer greenhouse gases than fossil fuels. The aviation industry is projected to require 450 billion liters of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2050 to meet net-zero targets. However, concerns about deforestation linked to palm oil production have led some nations, including the European Union, to restrict its imports.

World BioMarkets Insight | Related Garuda conducts first commercial flight using Pertamina SAF - Jakarta Post

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Thai Airways unveils eco-conscious crew uniforms

Thai Airways International (THAI) has unveiled a new uniform for its female cabin crew, incorporating national identity and sustainable development elements. The Thai Ruean Ton, a traditional Thai national dress worn by THAI flight attendants for over six decades, has been updated with synthetic thread made from recycled materials and Thai silk. This new uniform is easier to maintain, more flexible to wear, and meets safety standards. The design aligns with THAI's sustainability efforts, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pursuing a net-zero emissions goal by 2050. It will be worn by female flight attendants starting from January 1, 2024, as part of THAI's commitment to sustainable development.

Runway Girl | Related

Thai Airways unveils new cabin crew uniform - Business Traveller

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London Stansted Airport to get bigger departure lounge as terminal expansion plans approved

London Stansted Airport has received planning permission to extend its terminal building by adding a three-bay extension to the back of the existing terminal, increasing its size by 16,500 square meters. This extension is expected to contribute to an annual GDP of £2 billion and create 5,000 new jobs. The expansion project aims to provide passengers with a more spacious departure lounge, additional shopping, dining options, increased baggage capacity, and faster check-in through security. Stansted Airport anticipates reaching 43 million passenger capacity, further boosting economic growth, jobs, and international connectivity for London and the East of England.

ITV News | Related

London Stansted gets go-ahead for terminal extension in drive to create 5,000 jobs - City AM

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

For the photo of the day, we've got an ATR-72 from Japan's Toki Air via @photomuchan Use #APEXPOTD for the chance to be featured in the APEX Daily Experience newsletter!

> Tweet of the Day

Less than one week to go! #FTEAPEXAsiaExpo will be our biggest & best ever event in the region with 50+ airlines & 500+ organizations registered from across Asia & beyond. Complete your registration now: http://bit.ly/3ZOo909

The Afritraveller @theAPEXassoc

Association News

Register for FTE APEX Asia Expo – Preparing for Tomorrow’s World

FTE APEX Asia Expo, 8-9 November 2023, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore, is the largest free-to-attend passenger experience and business performance expo for the air transport industry. It will provide a unique platform for the industry's most innovative suppliers from across Asia and further afield to come together to showcase their latest products, services and solutions designed to help airlines improve end-to-end customer experiences, reduce costs, increase revenues, and enhance sustainability and operational efficiency. The networking and business development opportunities are immense, and our AI matchmaking app, powered by Swapcard, provides incredible access to the most progressive companies in the industry, with whom you can connect to help redefine your organization’s passenger experience and business performance strategies. Learn more and register.

> Quote of the Day

"Even though the geopolitical situation remains challenging, our booking outlook gives us reason to be positive - not only for a very good group result this year, but also beyond."

Carsten Spohr, CEO, Lufthansa
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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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