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November 17, 2021

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Today's Top Stories

Akasa Air Orders 72 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft

Startup Indian carrier Akasa Air has ordered 72 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to build its fleet. The order, valued at $9 billion at list price, includes two MAX variants, the 737-8 and the high-capacity 737-8-200. “We believe that the new 737 MAX aircraft will support our aim of running not just a cost-efficient, reliable and affordable airline, but also an environmentally friendly company with the youngest and greenest fleet in the Indian skies,” said Akasa Air’s CEO, Vinay Dube. Boeing's 2021 Commercial Market Outlook predicts that South Asia will need 2,200 new aircraft, worth nearly $320 billion, over the next 20 years.

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Viasat IFC Becomes Line-Fit Available on Embraer E2s

A new Buyer-Furnished Equipment agreement will see Viasat's in-flight connectivity (IFC) system offered as a line-fit option on Embraer's family of E2 aircraft. Multiple airlines, including Azul, have already opted to have their E2 jets equipped with Viasat's IFC before delivery. The two companies first received certification to carry out a line-fit installation of Viasat’s IFC for an E195-E2 customer in 2020. “We are enabling our customers to offer an in-flight Wi-Fi experience that will keep them highly competitive and delight their passengers,” said Rodrigo Silva e Souza, VP Marketing, Embraer Commercial Aviation.

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Seamless Air Alliance Launches Seamless Release 3

Seamless Air Alliance has launched its third set of technical documents, Seamless Release 3 (SR3). Developed with the input of 46 industry participants, SR3 covers the measurement and management of the in-flight connectivity (IFC) experience by defining an automatic control system that compares Quality of Service, Quality of Experience and user experience measures against an acceptable product performance level. Results are used to adjust the allocation of network resources to achieve the desired IFC experience in a closed-loop system using minimum resources.

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ATR Announces Host of Aircraft Orders

As part of its continued fleet upgrades, Air Corsica has ordered five ATR 72-600 aircraft, becoming the launch customer for Pratt & Whitney’s PW127XT engines. The aircraft will offer passengers a more spacious cabin with larger overhead compartments. Deliveries are expected to begin in November 2022. Romanian carrier TAROM has acquired three ATR 72-600s, which it will use to upscale its existing ATR 42-500 fleet. Binter Canarias has signed an order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft with an option for one more.

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AERQ Reveals New Partnerships for AERENA

AERQ has announced the addition of new partnerships for its digital platform, AERENA. Partners include Gladi8or, a provider of in-flight games, esports video content and a digital onboard shop; InflightFlix, which curates and monetizes premium destination video guides; MediaCarrier‍, who provide access to digital newspapers and magazines throughout the passenger journey; and Rydes, an app encompassing multiple mobility options that, when booked, are 100% offset. AERENA’s open IT system, including in-seat and cabin digital signage, has been designed to facilitate greater passenger engagement onboard. ‍

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Etihad Airways to Allow Pets in the Aircraft Cabin

Passengers traveling in business or first class with Etihad Airways can now book an extra seat to transport their cats and dogs. To do so, the passenger must be at least 18 years old, while the animal must be at least 16-weeks old and weigh no more than eight kilograms, including the carrier. Animals traveling in economy class can do so under the seat in front of the passenger they are traveling with, or in a purchased adjacent seat. The economy-class cost of flying with a pet is $150 for flights of six hours or less and $250 for flights over six hours long.

Khaleej Times | Related The reality of international travel with your dog: How Bandido flew from Vietnam to the US – The Points Guy

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AA Shares Plans for Admirals Club at AUS

American Airlines (AA) has revealed plans for a 15,000-square-foot Admirals Club lounge at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport that will begin construction next year. Accommodating up to 250 passengers, the space will be inspired by Austin’s local art and music scene and, once open, will host performances by local musicians. Clarissa Sebastian, AA’s managing director, Premium Customer Experience and Onboard Products, said, “Austin has such a unique energy, with its fascinating mix of technology and arts. American wants to create a club that reflects that eclectic style and pays homage to the lively music scene.”

American Airlines | Related American Airlines, travel platform Winding Tree announce blockchain partnership – Reuters

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

A Delta A220 lifts off from runway 33L, headed to ORD. Captured by @kbos_aeronautics.

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

> Tweet of the Day

We are honored that @emirates has again selected our #PremiumEconomy seat to enhance the experience of their passengers from gate to gate. #DrivingComfortInTheSky

Recaro Aircraft Seating @recaro_as

Association News

IAMA Partners with Quali-Audit for Standard Auditing

The Independent Aircraft Modifier Alliance (IAMA) is partnering with Paris-based Quali-Audit to kick off the its much-anticipated auditing program. Quali-Audit will start conducting formal audits of Full and Basic alliance members during the first quarter of 2022. The alliance aims to ensure that members modifying aircraft through STC projects maintain the highest operational standard possible. Since conceived and initially released in March 2020, the IAMA Rulebook defines a standard that has become an indispensable resource for aircraft modifiers, airlines and lessors.

> Quote of the Day

“We are at the cusp of a major transformation in relation to how in-flight connectivity services are going to be experienced and consumed by passengers.”

Thomas Locke, Seamless Air Alliance
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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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