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24-Sep-20

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Today's Top Stories

Industry Experts Predict How COVID-19 Will Change IFEC and Onboard Retail

This year's virtual World Aviation Festival included a panel session about the long-term future of IFEC and its associated retail challenges and opportunities. APEX Media director Maryann Simson chaired the session, which featured industry experts from Panasonic Avionics, Viasat, Emirates and El Al. One of the main takeaways was that passengers' personal electronic devices will play an exponentially more important role in the in-flight experience, whether acting as a remote control for seatback IFE or allowing passengers to reserve a spot in line for the lavatory and make in-flight purchases.

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Boeing's UV Wand Will Soon Be Available For Airline Use

After successful testing on board the most recent ecoDemonstrator testbed, an Etihad Airways Boing 787-10, Boeing's UV wand is to be manufactured for commercial use by US-based company Healthe. According to Doug Christensen, technical leader of the ecoDemonstrator program, the handheld device disinfected the flight deck in 15 minutes without the use of harsh liquid disinfectants. Instead, it uses 222 nanometerUVC light to inactivate pathogens. The wand is carried in a self-contained unit resembling a carry-on suitcase.

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Airport COVID Testing Gains Traction

United Airlines will allow passengers headed for Hawaii to be tested for COVID-19 in the terminal prior to departure. The $250 saliva test returns results in 15 minutes, and a negative result allows the passenger to avoid quarantine restrictions on arrival. Edmonton International Airport is also participating in a testing trial. A handheld kit from Graphene Leaders Canada returns results in under a minute based on a saliva sample. Passengers landing in India without a negative test result can now receive a test on arrival. The protocol allows for a negative test to terminate home isolation processes.

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Gogo Seeks Anti-Takeover Provisions to Protect Tax Assets

Gogo's significant portfolio of net operating losses are a valuable asset for future tax liabilities and could be at risk during a change of ownership event. With that concern in mind, the company adopted a shareholder rights plan that limits the ability for an outside organization to increase its stake in the company. Similar to other "poison pill" plans, the move effectively dissuades a hostile takeover position, as it limits the efficacy of acquiring shares on the open market. If management so chooses, the new shareholder could be quickly diluted.

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Jio Launches In-Flight Wi-Fi Packages for Mobile Customers

One of India's largest mobile phone service providers now sells packages for in-flight Wi-Fi services. Jio customers can purchase a data package from the company and connect to the Internet on flights across 22 partner airlines. Jio does not provide the in-flight connectivity (IFC) service directly, instead leveraging a partnership with AeroMobile, a Panasonic Avionics subsidiary. This type of deal helps ease the process of travelers getting online, allowing them to use an existing account and payment method rather than having to create a new login for the IFC platform on each airline. The packages range from approximately $6.75 to $13.50.

Times of India | Related India's Jio adds inflight connectivity roaming - PaxEx.aero

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Neste, Shell Sign Sustainable Aviation Fuel Distribution Agreement

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) scored a boost this week as producer Neste signed a deal with Shell Aviation, which will take effect in October. The partnership combines the expertise of Neste's production and supply of renewable diesel and SAF with Shell Aviation's background in supplying and managing fuel across the world. Shell Aviation's president, Anna Mascolo, said, "To tackle climate change and reach net zero emissions, the aviation industry must act fast. Shell Aviation aims to reduce the carbon intensity of the fuels we sell, which includes selling more lower-carbon fuels like sustainable aviation fuel, over time."

Hydrocarbons Technology | Related Stockholm Arlanda takes delivery of 200 tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel - Airport World

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Brisbane Airport Unveils Fresh Food Vending Machine

Passenger numbers are too low to justify reopening most airport concessions, but travelers in Brisbane can still get fresh food. The airport partnered with snapfresh to install a vending machine that offers ready-made meals. "Not only does it ensure there are additional food options available for travelers transiting through our airport, but our staff and employees within the airport can also access delicious ready-made meal solutions," said Martin Ryan, executive general manager, Commercial, Brisbane Airport Corporation. The kiosk offers a rotation of six meals, with a hot version dispensed in just over a minute.

Moodie Davitt Report | Related Airport Vending Machines Help Pax Fuel Up With Healthy Salads and Portable Chargers - APEX Media

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> PHOTO OF THE DAY

Dreamliner wings. Captured by @danielrico.esp (via Instagram).

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

> Tweet of the Day

It's been 1ï¸ƒ£9ï¸ƒ£5ï¸ƒ£ days since my last flight and with much hesitation, I am back @DelhiAirport T3 for my day trip to @IXCairport. This thread is an attempt to see how effectively #COVID19 guidelines are being implemented and followed by pax at airports and onboard.

VT-VLO @Vinamralongani

Association News

The Next Episode of The Weekly Wrap Lands Tomorrow!

Tune in to tomorrow's episode to hear from special guest Michael Gill, executive director of the Air Transport Action Group, who joins to discuss how COVID-19 has affected the industry's commitments to a greener future. Hosts Maryann Simson and Seth Miller also discuss Airbus' three new hydrogen-powered aircraft concepts, and how wearing masks is affecting the use of biometrics throughout the travel journey. Watch previous episodes and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

> Quote of the Day

"With the arrival of the pandemic, we need to understand how face recognition technology deals with masked faces."

Mei Ngan, NIST computer scientist
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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