Monarch: new routes for the New Year
"Book by midnight on Tuesday, January 2: Monarch Scheduled is offering some new routes for 2007. The low-cost holiday airline has 1,000 flights from Manchester to Jerez and 1,000 seats from Manchester, Birmingham and London airports to Ibiza for £1 one-way excluding taxes."
Friday, December 29, 2006
Flybe says 250 jobs to go in BA Connect takeover
"Airline Flybe is planning to axe around 250 jobs when it takes over British Airways' regional flights business BA Connect. The no-frills airline, which hopes to complete the takeover deal next month, said between 200 and 250 jobs would go out of a 2050-strong workforce, mainly from BA Connect's London head office. The deal, which is subject to regulatory clearance, will create Europe's largest regional airline, with 3500 staff and 70 aircraft on 159 routes. Flybe chief executive Jim French was reported to have said: "We will go through the normal 90-day consultation process and we will honour the terms of all BA contracts. We would like to sort this out as quickly as possible."
"Airline Flybe is planning to axe around 250 jobs when it takes over British Airways' regional flights business BA Connect. The no-frills airline, which hopes to complete the takeover deal next month, said between 200 and 250 jobs would go out of a 2050-strong workforce, mainly from BA Connect's London head office. The deal, which is subject to regulatory clearance, will create Europe's largest regional airline, with 3500 staff and 70 aircraft on 159 routes. Flybe chief executive Jim French was reported to have said: "We will go through the normal 90-day consultation process and we will honour the terms of all BA contracts. We would like to sort this out as quickly as possible."
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Rescue deal offers French take on British airline consolidation
"Amid the flurry of consolidation in the airline industry in the past few months, one deal ducked under the radar. Flybe's agreement to acquire the British Airways' subsidiary BA Connect will create Europe's largest regional carrier. The Exeter-based firm pounced while the industry was transfixed by Ryanair's doomed pursuit of Aer Lingus and hopes to ride a boom in regional travel and turn around the ailing airline. Jim French, Flybe's chairman and chief executive, says the deal to create an airline with 3,500 staff and 70 aircraft serving 159 routes is a defining moment for a business that nearly went bust four years ago. Leaking money in the post-September 11 slump in air travel, Flybe copied many of its peers by adopting a no-frills approach that now has the business on a far healthier footing."
"Amid the flurry of consolidation in the airline industry in the past few months, one deal ducked under the radar. Flybe's agreement to acquire the British Airways' subsidiary BA Connect will create Europe's largest regional carrier. The Exeter-based firm pounced while the industry was transfixed by Ryanair's doomed pursuit of Aer Lingus and hopes to ride a boom in regional travel and turn around the ailing airline. Jim French, Flybe's chairman and chief executive, says the deal to create an airline with 3,500 staff and 70 aircraft serving 159 routes is a defining moment for a business that nearly went bust four years ago. Leaking money in the post-September 11 slump in air travel, Flybe copied many of its peers by adopting a no-frills approach that now has the business on a far healthier footing."
Ryanair opens new route to ski resort
"Budget carrier Ryanair has opened the doors to a top ski resort from Ayrshire. A new route is running three times a week from Prestwick to Grenoble in the south east of France. It takes the number of routes from the Ayrshire base to 23 in total. Ryanair’s UK marketing executive, Elaine Duff, said: “We are delighted to launch yet another new service from Glasgow Prestwick which will make it even easier for Scots to hit the slopes this winter.”"
"Budget carrier Ryanair has opened the doors to a top ski resort from Ayrshire. A new route is running three times a week from Prestwick to Grenoble in the south east of France. It takes the number of routes from the Ayrshire base to 23 in total. Ryanair’s UK marketing executive, Elaine Duff, said: “We are delighted to launch yet another new service from Glasgow Prestwick which will make it even easier for Scots to hit the slopes this winter.”"
SkyEurope's CFO to leave by end of 2006
"SkyEurope Airlines Chief Financial Officer Erhard Schmidt will leave his post by the end of the year because of personal reasons, the carrier said. Schmidt will be replaced by Lane Zirnhelt, the Bratislava, Slovakia-based low-cost carrier's current finance manager, the airline's SkyEurope Holding AG parent company said in an e-mailed statement released late on December 22, after the market closed and Europe's four-day Christmas holiday began."
"SkyEurope Airlines Chief Financial Officer Erhard Schmidt will leave his post by the end of the year because of personal reasons, the carrier said. Schmidt will be replaced by Lane Zirnhelt, the Bratislava, Slovakia-based low-cost carrier's current finance manager, the airline's SkyEurope Holding AG parent company said in an e-mailed statement released late on December 22, after the market closed and Europe's four-day Christmas holiday began."
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Ryanair loses domain-name battle against ryanaircampaign.org
"Discount airline Ryanair Holdings PLC has lost its battle to win control of an Internet domain name from a disgruntled former customer, according to a ruling issued by a United Nations panel Wednesday. Michael Coulston of London set up a Web site critical of Ryanair's business practices in July under the domain name http://www.ryanaircampaign.org. The Irish carrier complained to the World Intellectual Property Organization that the domain name infringed on its trademarks and should therefore be transferred into Ryanair's possession."
"Discount airline Ryanair Holdings PLC has lost its battle to win control of an Internet domain name from a disgruntled former customer, according to a ruling issued by a United Nations panel Wednesday. Michael Coulston of London set up a Web site critical of Ryanair's business practices in July under the domain name http://www.ryanaircampaign.org. The Irish carrier complained to the World Intellectual Property Organization that the domain name infringed on its trademarks and should therefore be transferred into Ryanair's possession."
How Ryanair's raid on Aer Lingus propelled aviation to new heights
"Shock, drama, mania, devilment - four defining features of the year 2006 in aviation which made the battle for Ireland's skies more arresting than many a Hollywood blockbuster. The undisputed highlight of the year was Ryanair's audacious bid for Aer Lingus, which prompted an epic power struggle that would grip the attention of the nation and polarise opinion throughout Ireland. The saga began at the end of September, when Aer Lingus finally made it to the stock market after more than a decade of government deliberations and false starts."
"Shock, drama, mania, devilment - four defining features of the year 2006 in aviation which made the battle for Ireland's skies more arresting than many a Hollywood blockbuster. The undisputed highlight of the year was Ryanair's audacious bid for Aer Lingus, which prompted an epic power struggle that would grip the attention of the nation and polarise opinion throughout Ireland. The saga began at the end of September, when Aer Lingus finally made it to the stock market after more than a decade of government deliberations and false starts."
Passengers finally land, outraged at Ryanair
"Dozens of Ryanair passengers stranded in France on Christmas Eve finally arrived in Ireland yesterday. But some of them were critical of the way they were treated by the airline after missing Christmas Day with their families. Ryanair flight 1153 eventually landed at Shannon at 4pm yesterday where relatives and friends waited to greet their loved ones. The flight should have arrived on Sunday afternoon but was grounded in Carcassonne in the south of France because of the weather. Several Ryanair flights, including services to Shannon, Dublin and Brussels were cancelled because of the weather. However, some other flights did manage to take off."
"Dozens of Ryanair passengers stranded in France on Christmas Eve finally arrived in Ireland yesterday. But some of them were critical of the way they were treated by the airline after missing Christmas Day with their families. Ryanair flight 1153 eventually landed at Shannon at 4pm yesterday where relatives and friends waited to greet their loved ones. The flight should have arrived on Sunday afternoon but was grounded in Carcassonne in the south of France because of the weather. Several Ryanair flights, including services to Shannon, Dublin and Brussels were cancelled because of the weather. However, some other flights did manage to take off."
Delayed Ryanair passengers return home
"Ryanair passengers who were stranded in southern France on Christmas Eve have returned to Ireland. They were unable to make their journeys from Carcassonne to Dublin and Shannon on Sunday because of complications arising from bad weather. Some were flown to London-Standsted where Ryanair provided an unscheduled plane for their journey home."
"Ryanair passengers who were stranded in southern France on Christmas Eve have returned to Ireland. They were unable to make their journeys from Carcassonne to Dublin and Shannon on Sunday because of complications arising from bad weather. Some were flown to London-Standsted where Ryanair provided an unscheduled plane for their journey home."
Middle-class warriors join green front line
"Middle-class environmental campaigners are joining forces with hardcore protesters to take direct action using radical campaign tactics. Anger over airport expansion and carbon emissions has created a proliferation of radical green groups. Ten years after the “eco-warrior” Swampy shot to fame, activists are again shunning leafleting and quiet demonstrations in favour of physical and attention-grabbing stunts, with some prepared to break the law."
"Middle-class environmental campaigners are joining forces with hardcore protesters to take direct action using radical campaign tactics. Anger over airport expansion and carbon emissions has created a proliferation of radical green groups. Ten years after the “eco-warrior” Swampy shot to fame, activists are again shunning leafleting and quiet demonstrations in favour of physical and attention-grabbing stunts, with some prepared to break the law."
EasyJet and Oasis hope for no-frills pact
"EasyJet has held exploratory talks with a new long-haul peer about a possible alliance that would allow customers of the low-cost airline to buy intercontinental tickets. The Luton-based no-frills carrier held discussions with Oasis Hong Kong over the possibility of working together to connect their services. Oasis, launched in October, offers budget flights between London and Hong Kong. It aims to expand from its Hong Kong base to offer flights to Germany, Italy and the US."
"EasyJet has held exploratory talks with a new long-haul peer about a possible alliance that would allow customers of the low-cost airline to buy intercontinental tickets. The Luton-based no-frills carrier held discussions with Oasis Hong Kong over the possibility of working together to connect their services. Oasis, launched in October, offers budget flights between London and Hong Kong. It aims to expand from its Hong Kong base to offer flights to Germany, Italy and the US."
Ryanair quits plan to buy Aer Lingus
"No frills airline Ryanair yesterday withdrew its ambitious bid to take over Ireland’s national carrier Aer Lingus after the European Commission announced an “in-depth investigation” into its plans. Following the announcement Ryanair said the buyout automatically lapsed under takeover rules – but the company still intends to make a further offer for Aer Lingus if the EC review clears the way."
"No frills airline Ryanair yesterday withdrew its ambitious bid to take over Ireland’s national carrier Aer Lingus after the European Commission announced an “in-depth investigation” into its plans. Following the announcement Ryanair said the buyout automatically lapsed under takeover rules – but the company still intends to make a further offer for Aer Lingus if the EC review clears the way."
New cabin crew uniforms for easyJet
"Cabin crew at UK-based airline easyJet will be wearing smart new uniforms in the new year. In order to come up with the new uniform design, the airline carried out a competition. Cabin crew members from various easyJet bases submitted design ideas, which were then voted on over a period of several months."
"Cabin crew at UK-based airline easyJet will be wearing smart new uniforms in the new year. In order to come up with the new uniform design, the airline carried out a competition. Cabin crew members from various easyJet bases submitted design ideas, which were then voted on over a period of several months."
'No-frills terminals' for budget airlines
"Major airports across Europe are set to get 'budget terminals' to allow low-cost airlines to fly into the larger city airports. The European Commission is to launch a strategy next month which will aim to encourage the building of stripped-down facilities at airports such as Edinburgh and Aberdeen, as well as major European hubs such as Frankfurt and Paris Charles de Gaulle."
"Major airports across Europe are set to get 'budget terminals' to allow low-cost airlines to fly into the larger city airports. The European Commission is to launch a strategy next month which will aim to encourage the building of stripped-down facilities at airports such as Edinburgh and Aberdeen, as well as major European hubs such as Frankfurt and Paris Charles de Gaulle."
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Cheap Swedish Flights to Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul
"Swedish low cost airline FlyMe will begin flights to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen airport in April. The company will fly one day of the week to Sabiha Gokcen in April. In May, the company will schedule flights to Istanbul every Monday and Friday. Traffic at Sabiha Gokcen airport, a base for low cost carriers, has recently increased due to the new airline companies."
"Swedish low cost airline FlyMe will begin flights to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen airport in April. The company will fly one day of the week to Sabiha Gokcen in April. In May, the company will schedule flights to Istanbul every Monday and Friday. Traffic at Sabiha Gokcen airport, a base for low cost carriers, has recently increased due to the new airline companies."
Ryanair 'assured £1m to fly in'
"Ryanair paid the council £100 each time an aircraft landed. Low cost airline Ryanair was guaranteed more than £1m in a five year marketing agreement to fly into City of Derry Airport. However, Derry City Council said only £300,000 of this came from ratepayers. A journalist took the council to an information tribunal to reveal the terms of the deal struck in 1999. Press Association journalist Brian Hutton fought a two year battle with the council to reveal the terms of the deal. They were ultimately only disclosed after he took the council to the Information Commissioner and then an Information Tribunal. This was a commercial arrangement between a private airline and a public airport. Derry City Council. He said under the deal, Ryanair was guaranteed £250,000 each year for five years, to promote its Londonderry to London route."
"Ryanair paid the council £100 each time an aircraft landed. Low cost airline Ryanair was guaranteed more than £1m in a five year marketing agreement to fly into City of Derry Airport. However, Derry City Council said only £300,000 of this came from ratepayers. A journalist took the council to an information tribunal to reveal the terms of the deal struck in 1999. Press Association journalist Brian Hutton fought a two year battle with the council to reveal the terms of the deal. They were ultimately only disclosed after he took the council to the Information Commissioner and then an Information Tribunal. This was a commercial arrangement between a private airline and a public airport. Derry City Council. He said under the deal, Ryanair was guaranteed £250,000 each year for five years, to promote its Londonderry to London route."
EasyJet heads for row at Liverpool
"EasyJet is set for a New Year confrontation with the operators of Liverpool John Lennon Airport, after the airport introduced a £2 charge for each departing passenger to offset higher security costs. The airport, owned by Peel Airports, a subsidiary of Peel Holdings, said security costs had almost trebled in the past five years. But EasyJet said yesterday its contract with the airport included all security services. Andy Harrison, EasyJet's chief executive, said the airport was "acting improperly by trying to double charge the airlines' customers for something that we have already paid for and we will not let them do it"."
"EasyJet is set for a New Year confrontation with the operators of Liverpool John Lennon Airport, after the airport introduced a £2 charge for each departing passenger to offset higher security costs. The airport, owned by Peel Airports, a subsidiary of Peel Holdings, said security costs had almost trebled in the past five years. But EasyJet said yesterday its contract with the airport included all security services. Andy Harrison, EasyJet's chief executive, said the airport was "acting improperly by trying to double charge the airlines' customers for something that we have already paid for and we will not let them do it"."
No Christmas air chaos at Charleroi
"Civil servants working for the Walloon regional government staged a strike today against the local administration´s plan to merge two of its ministerial departments. Trade unions at Charleroi Brussels South airport were among those taking part in the protest action, sparking fears of major delays for passengers leaving for Christmas breaks on one of the busiest days of the year for travel. (...) Irish budget airline, Ryanair, the main carrier out of Charlerloi, said it was confident all its flights will go ahead as normal."
"Civil servants working for the Walloon regional government staged a strike today against the local administration´s plan to merge two of its ministerial departments. Trade unions at Charleroi Brussels South airport were among those taking part in the protest action, sparking fears of major delays for passengers leaving for Christmas breaks on one of the busiest days of the year for travel. (...) Irish budget airline, Ryanair, the main carrier out of Charlerloi, said it was confident all its flights will go ahead as normal."
EU to probe Ryanair's Aer Lingus takeover bid
"EU regulators today launched an in-depth probe into Ryanair Holdings PLC's hostile bid for Irish carrier Aer Lingus PLC, delaying any deal by months. The European Commission said it saw ``serious competition concerns'' with the deal combining Ireland's two largest airlines, saying it could reduce customer choice for consumers and hike fares."
"EU regulators today launched an in-depth probe into Ryanair Holdings PLC's hostile bid for Irish carrier Aer Lingus PLC, delaying any deal by months. The European Commission said it saw ``serious competition concerns'' with the deal combining Ireland's two largest airlines, saying it could reduce customer choice for consumers and hike fares."
Air Madrid pilots send job applications to Vueling and Clickair
"Just four days after low-cost airline Air Madrid had its licence revoked by the Spanish development ministry for safety reasons, over 100 of the airline's pilots have flown to Barcelona seeking to be hired by two other low-cost airlines, Vueling and Clickair, which in line with their expansion plans are expected to hire 200 pilots next year."
"Just four days after low-cost airline Air Madrid had its licence revoked by the Spanish development ministry for safety reasons, over 100 of the airline's pilots have flown to Barcelona seeking to be hired by two other low-cost airlines, Vueling and Clickair, which in line with their expansion plans are expected to hire 200 pilots next year."
Friday, December 22, 2006
Polish low-cost airline Centralwings into Stansted
"LOT Polish Airlines Polish low-cost airline Centralwings, subsidiary of LOT, launches a route into Stansted. Already established at Gatwick, the budget carrier will offer a route to Warsaw from north London three times a week."
"LOT Polish Airlines Polish low-cost airline Centralwings, subsidiary of LOT, launches a route into Stansted. Already established at Gatwick, the budget carrier will offer a route to Warsaw from north London three times a week."
Ryanair suspends Aer Lingus pursuit
"Ryanair shelved, at least temporarily, its plan to acquire Aer Lingus following the European Commission's decision to refer its hostile €1.48 billion ($1.95 billion) takeover offer to a Phase II investigation, which can take 3-5 months. The LCC said that owing to the EU regulatory investigation, its offer automatically lapsed under takeover rules, yet it added that it intends to make a further offer for its smaller competitor if the EC clears the bid after its Phase II review. The offer was set to expire today. Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary accused EC competition chiefs of bias against his carrier. He noted that the same authority approved a merger between Air France and KLM after less scrutiny and with fewer remedies."
"Ryanair shelved, at least temporarily, its plan to acquire Aer Lingus following the European Commission's decision to refer its hostile €1.48 billion ($1.95 billion) takeover offer to a Phase II investigation, which can take 3-5 months. The LCC said that owing to the EU regulatory investigation, its offer automatically lapsed under takeover rules, yet it added that it intends to make a further offer for its smaller competitor if the EC clears the bid after its Phase II review. The offer was set to expire today. Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary accused EC competition chiefs of bias against his carrier. He noted that the same authority approved a merger between Air France and KLM after less scrutiny and with fewer remedies."
Investigation scuppers Ryanair's Aer Lingus bid
"No frills airline Ryanair's €2.80 per share cash offer for Aer Lingus has lapsed, it said today, following the European Commission's decision to open a phase two enquiry into competition concerns. The move gives the Commission 90 working days to mull the impact on competition should a deal ever go ahead. Ryanair also said that in the event of European Commission clearance following its second phase review it intends to make a further offer for Ireland's national carrier."
"No frills airline Ryanair's €2.80 per share cash offer for Aer Lingus has lapsed, it said today, following the European Commission's decision to open a phase two enquiry into competition concerns. The move gives the Commission 90 working days to mull the impact on competition should a deal ever go ahead. Ryanair also said that in the event of European Commission clearance following its second phase review it intends to make a further offer for Ireland's national carrier."
Scottish expansion for Easyjet and Continental
"Edinburgh's links with the outside world will be boosted next year. Budget airline Easyjet will serve three new business destinations from Scotland's capital city while Continental will double its flights on the New York route. The first new Easyjet route, a daily service to Madrid, will start on February 25. It will be followed by a daily service to Munich on April 4 along with a daily service to Milan Malpensa starting on May 21. Return fares start at £56 for Madrid and Milan along with £64 for Munich."
"Edinburgh's links with the outside world will be boosted next year. Budget airline Easyjet will serve three new business destinations from Scotland's capital city while Continental will double its flights on the New York route. The first new Easyjet route, a daily service to Madrid, will start on February 25. It will be followed by a daily service to Munich on April 4 along with a daily service to Milan Malpensa starting on May 21. Return fares start at £56 for Madrid and Milan along with £64 for Munich."
European Committee opens an inquiry on the buyout of Aer Lingus by the side of Ryanair
"It worries the possibility to lay it on the line the healthy competitions among the carriers
(WAPA) - Ryanair wants to buy Aer Lingus Irish carrier; Avionews has made known time after time. Employed and shareholders, includes the government, are contrary to the buyout's offer of low-cost because they fear that in the Country it established a monopoly regime in the air sector."
"It worries the possibility to lay it on the line the healthy competitions among the carriers
(WAPA) - Ryanair wants to buy Aer Lingus Irish carrier; Avionews has made known time after time. Employed and shareholders, includes the government, are contrary to the buyout's offer of low-cost because they fear that in the Country it established a monopoly regime in the air sector."
Flybe set to buy BA regional offshoot
"British Airways has agreed to sell the struggling regional arm of its BA Connect subsidiary BA to Flybe. Manchester-based BA Connect made losses of £6 million in the first half of the year and is seen as a lame duck by BA chief executive, Willie Walsh. It operates 52 routes from 13 airports around the UK, although BA said it will keep hold of the services from London City Airport and between Manchester and New York."
"British Airways has agreed to sell the struggling regional arm of its BA Connect subsidiary BA to Flybe. Manchester-based BA Connect made losses of £6 million in the first half of the year and is seen as a lame duck by BA chief executive, Willie Walsh. It operates 52 routes from 13 airports around the UK, although BA said it will keep hold of the services from London City Airport and between Manchester and New York."
Low-cost airline flies in to Larnaca
"Award-winning budget airline Monarch is to launch scheduled flights from London Luton to Cyprus next year, as the airline expands its network to the Eastern Mediterranean, the first real low-cost carrier do to so. Monarch’s new Larnaca service will start on March 26, 2007 with fares from £69.99 sterling one-way including taxes, and web booking discounts. Seats to Cyprus could be booked as of yesterday at the airline’s website. The introduction of the service four times per week from London Luton to Larnaca will be the first low-cost scheduled flights to Cyprus from the UK, offering travellers the flexibility and low fares, not currently available. Commenting on the introduction of services to Cyprus, managing director of Monarch’s scheduled services, Tim Jeans said, “We are delighted to be the first low-fare airline to launch scheduled services to the Eastern Mediterranean, a market that has historically been dominated by the flag carriers and charter services."
"Award-winning budget airline Monarch is to launch scheduled flights from London Luton to Cyprus next year, as the airline expands its network to the Eastern Mediterranean, the first real low-cost carrier do to so. Monarch’s new Larnaca service will start on March 26, 2007 with fares from £69.99 sterling one-way including taxes, and web booking discounts. Seats to Cyprus could be booked as of yesterday at the airline’s website. The introduction of the service four times per week from London Luton to Larnaca will be the first low-cost scheduled flights to Cyprus from the UK, offering travellers the flexibility and low fares, not currently available. Commenting on the introduction of services to Cyprus, managing director of Monarch’s scheduled services, Tim Jeans said, “We are delighted to be the first low-fare airline to launch scheduled services to the Eastern Mediterranean, a market that has historically been dominated by the flag carriers and charter services."
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Ryanair faces probe after bid collapses
"Low-cost airline Ryanair faces an investigation from the European Commission (EC) into its failed takeover bid against rival Irish airline Aer Lingus. Ryanair offered €1.48 billion (£1 billion) for Aer Lingus in October but the bid was strongly resisted by key Aer Lingus shareholders, led by the Irish government, who said they would not sell their 25 per cent stake in the airline."
"Low-cost airline Ryanair faces an investigation from the European Commission (EC) into its failed takeover bid against rival Irish airline Aer Lingus. Ryanair offered €1.48 billion (£1 billion) for Aer Lingus in October but the bid was strongly resisted by key Aer Lingus shareholders, led by the Irish government, who said they would not sell their 25 per cent stake in the airline."
EU investigation grounds Ryanair bid
"The European commission has stepped in to investigate Ryanair's £1bn bid for Aer Lingus, forcing the offer to lapse. But Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary made it clear today that he plans to launch another bid if he is given the go-ahead by the EU. This is despite the almost certain failure of his initial offer, which had been due to close on Friday. The EU investigation could take up to five months and Ryanair said it "regrets this unnecessary delay and any uncertainty it may cause for Aer Lingus shareholders and consumers who want access to lower fares and better service"."
"The European commission has stepped in to investigate Ryanair's £1bn bid for Aer Lingus, forcing the offer to lapse. But Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary made it clear today that he plans to launch another bid if he is given the go-ahead by the EU. This is despite the almost certain failure of his initial offer, which had been due to close on Friday. The EU investigation could take up to five months and Ryanair said it "regrets this unnecessary delay and any uncertainty it may cause for Aer Lingus shareholders and consumers who want access to lower fares and better service"."
SkyEurope Expands Sofia, Varna Destinations
"Slovakia's low-cost airline SkyEurope opens direct flights to Bulgaria's Black Sea coast city of Varna, local media announced. The regular shuttles to and from Varna will be carried out from the Vienna international airport Schwechat, every week day, except from Sundays, a company representative said. The maiden flight of SkyEurope Airlines on the Vienna-Varna-Vienna dstination is fixed for March 26. It will be served by a brand-new Boeing 737-700."
"Slovakia's low-cost airline SkyEurope opens direct flights to Bulgaria's Black Sea coast city of Varna, local media announced. The regular shuttles to and from Varna will be carried out from the Vienna international airport Schwechat, every week day, except from Sundays, a company representative said. The maiden flight of SkyEurope Airlines on the Vienna-Varna-Vienna dstination is fixed for March 26. It will be served by a brand-new Boeing 737-700."
Jet2.com cautioned by advertising watchdog
"The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has warned low-cost airline Jet2.com about its future conduct after a number of its adverts promoted “free” tickets. The ASA even went as far as to say that Jet2.com had brought advertising into disrepute, although the airline said it tried to stick to guidelines and that the use of the word “free” was in error. Complaints had been raised about a number of advertisements that included phrases such as “55,000 Free Flights! Just pay the taxes”, although two of the three complainants were Ryanair and Flybe, competitors of Jet2.com."
"The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has warned low-cost airline Jet2.com about its future conduct after a number of its adverts promoted “free” tickets. The ASA even went as far as to say that Jet2.com had brought advertising into disrepute, although the airline said it tried to stick to guidelines and that the use of the word “free” was in error. Complaints had been raised about a number of advertisements that included phrases such as “55,000 Free Flights! Just pay the taxes”, although two of the three complainants were Ryanair and Flybe, competitors of Jet2.com."
EasyJet appeals against French labour decree
"The low-cost British airline EasyJet said Tuesday it has appealed to France's highest administrative court against a decree that subjects air crews at French airports to the national labour laws. The Conseil d'Etat in Paris said EasyJet had asked the court to rule on the the validity of a decree issued on November 21 but also to issue a summary judgment as soon as possible."
"The low-cost British airline EasyJet said Tuesday it has appealed to France's highest administrative court against a decree that subjects air crews at French airports to the national labour laws. The Conseil d'Etat in Paris said EasyJet had asked the court to rule on the the validity of a decree issued on November 21 but also to issue a summary judgment as soon as possible."
Flybe to scrap its Spanish flights from Birmingham
"Regional budget airline Flybe is set to axe all its flights from Birmingham to Spain in early January. The airline will cancel its flights from Birmingham to Alicante and Malaga on January 7 and 8 respectively."
"Regional budget airline Flybe is set to axe all its flights from Birmingham to Spain in early January. The airline will cancel its flights from Birmingham to Alicante and Malaga on January 7 and 8 respectively."
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Doubts over Air Madrid could benefit listed airlines
"Analysts have predicted that the doubts that currently surround the future of Spanish low-cost airline Air Madrid could be a boon for listed airlines, including Iberia, the Spanish flagship carrier. According to analysts, Iberia could recover market share lost to its troubled rival, primarily on long-haul routes but particularly in Latin America. Eduardo Linan of brokerage firm Inversis has pointed out that Air Madrid exerted considerable pressure on fare levels."
"Analysts have predicted that the doubts that currently surround the future of Spanish low-cost airline Air Madrid could be a boon for listed airlines, including Iberia, the Spanish flagship carrier. According to analysts, Iberia could recover market share lost to its troubled rival, primarily on long-haul routes but particularly in Latin America. Eduardo Linan of brokerage firm Inversis has pointed out that Air Madrid exerted considerable pressure on fare levels."
SkyEurope to open Vienna base just 60 km. from Bratislava
"SkyEurope Airlines yesterday confirmed its intention to open a base at Vienna International Airport just 60 km. from its Bratislava hub, basing two 737-700s at VIE starting March 25 and flying to 16 European destinations. "The opening of a base in Vienna reflects the success of the airline on the Austrian market and underlines the important role of Bratislava as the company's headquarters and home base," SkyEurope said, revealing that Austrians account for 20% of passenger throughput in the Slovakian capital."
"SkyEurope Airlines yesterday confirmed its intention to open a base at Vienna International Airport just 60 km. from its Bratislava hub, basing two 737-700s at VIE starting March 25 and flying to 16 European destinations. "The opening of a base in Vienna reflects the success of the airline on the Austrian market and underlines the important role of Bratislava as the company's headquarters and home base," SkyEurope said, revealing that Austrians account for 20% of passenger throughput in the Slovakian capital."
Vueling completes IPO
"Spanish low-cost carrier Vueling has sold almost half of the company through an initial public offering (IPO). Vueling at the beginning of December listed 6.37 million shares on the Spanish stock exchange, representing a 43% stake. Fellow Spanish carrier Air Madrid has unveiled plans to launch its own IPO in mid-2007."
"Spanish low-cost carrier Vueling has sold almost half of the company through an initial public offering (IPO). Vueling at the beginning of December listed 6.37 million shares on the Spanish stock exchange, representing a 43% stake. Fellow Spanish carrier Air Madrid has unveiled plans to launch its own IPO in mid-2007."
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Ryanair blamed for dip in traffic
"Passenger numbers at Prestwick dipped in November, mainly because of a fall in Ryanair capacity, according to airport traffic figures for the month. The numbers using the Ayrshire airport fell to 161,101 from 166,745 for the same month last year. A spokesman for the airport put the drop down to route restructuring by Ryanair, which has seen a fall in capacity of 8000 seats a month from Prestwick."
"Passenger numbers at Prestwick dipped in November, mainly because of a fall in Ryanair capacity, according to airport traffic figures for the month. The numbers using the Ayrshire airport fell to 161,101 from 166,745 for the same month last year. A spokesman for the airport put the drop down to route restructuring by Ryanair, which has seen a fall in capacity of 8000 seats a month from Prestwick."
Spanish flyers get direct Madrid link
"The first daily direct flights between Scotland and Madrid have been announced by EasyJet as part of its largest-yet European expansion from Edinburgh. The no-frills airline will also launch routes from the airport to Milan and Palma and add a second daily flight to Amsterdam. The move comes as a further sign of the improving relationship between EasyJet and BAA following a stand-off lasting years over landing charges and BAA's ownership of both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports."
"The first daily direct flights between Scotland and Madrid have been announced by EasyJet as part of its largest-yet European expansion from Edinburgh. The no-frills airline will also launch routes from the airport to Milan and Palma and add a second daily flight to Amsterdam. The move comes as a further sign of the improving relationship between EasyJet and BAA following a stand-off lasting years over landing charges and BAA's ownership of both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports."
Air France to launch low-cost carrier
"Air France-KLM is establishing a new Paris Orly-based leisure carrier through its subsidiary Transavia, making use of slots from the parent company. The new carrier, to be known as transavia.com, will serve destinations in North Africa and Spain from mid-2007. It will operate four leased Boeing 737-800s in the first year, rising to seven in the second year and nine in the third. As with Amsterdam-based Transavia, its new French sister carrier will focus on a mix of charter and low-cost traffic akin to that seen at Air Berlin."
"Air France-KLM is establishing a new Paris Orly-based leisure carrier through its subsidiary Transavia, making use of slots from the parent company. The new carrier, to be known as transavia.com, will serve destinations in North Africa and Spain from mid-2007. It will operate four leased Boeing 737-800s in the first year, rising to seven in the second year and nine in the third. As with Amsterdam-based Transavia, its new French sister carrier will focus on a mix of charter and low-cost traffic akin to that seen at Air Berlin."
EasyJet launches new Edinburgh routes
"A major investment from easyJet will see the low-fare airline introduce three new direct routes from Edinburgh to some of Europe's favourite destinations. EasyJet will begin operating a daily service from Edinburgh to Madrid from February 25, 2007, as well as a daily service to Milan from May 21. There will also be twice-weekly flights to Palma from June 10, as the carrier boosts the number of destinations served from Edinburgh to 12."
"A major investment from easyJet will see the low-fare airline introduce three new direct routes from Edinburgh to some of Europe's favourite destinations. EasyJet will begin operating a daily service from Edinburgh to Madrid from February 25, 2007, as well as a daily service to Milan from May 21. There will also be twice-weekly flights to Palma from June 10, as the carrier boosts the number of destinations served from Edinburgh to 12."
UK wants to renegotiate new bilateral aviation agreement
"British Midlands had already informed Israel's Tourism Ministry that it wanted to operate regular flights from Heathrow to Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport. According to sources closed to the Israeli Ministry of Transport the British international aviation department had recently approached the Israel Civil Aviation Administration, asking to negotiate new bilateral aviation agreement."
"British Midlands had already informed Israel's Tourism Ministry that it wanted to operate regular flights from Heathrow to Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport. According to sources closed to the Israeli Ministry of Transport the British international aviation department had recently approached the Israel Civil Aviation Administration, asking to negotiate new bilateral aviation agreement."
Monday, December 18, 2006
Air Berlin planning double-digit growth rates
"Air Berlin, the German budget airline, is aiming to continue to achieve double-digit growth rates, despite tough competition and the fact that there is currently excess capacity in the European air travel sector. This year, the company registered a rise of almost 13 per cent in the number of passengers for the period up to the end of November, to 14.3 million. Air Berlin expects to see further growth of between 10 and 13 per cent in the number of passengers over the next few years."
"Air Berlin, the German budget airline, is aiming to continue to achieve double-digit growth rates, despite tough competition and the fact that there is currently excess capacity in the European air travel sector. This year, the company registered a rise of almost 13 per cent in the number of passengers for the period up to the end of November, to 14.3 million. Air Berlin expects to see further growth of between 10 and 13 per cent in the number of passengers over the next few years."
Swissport awarded ground handling contract for Easyjet and Air Berlin
"Swissport, the international ground and cargo handling specialist, has been awarded ground handling contracts for Madrid's Barajas airport by Easyjet, the UK-based low-cost airline, and Air Berlin, the German discount carrier. A few weeks ago, Swissport reached an agreement for ground handling services in Madrid with Irish low-cost airline Ryanair. Swissport now offers its services to Europe's three leading discount airlines."
"Swissport, the international ground and cargo handling specialist, has been awarded ground handling contracts for Madrid's Barajas airport by Easyjet, the UK-based low-cost airline, and Air Berlin, the German discount carrier. A few weeks ago, Swissport reached an agreement for ground handling services in Madrid with Irish low-cost airline Ryanair. Swissport now offers its services to Europe's three leading discount airlines."
Air Berlin improves passenger figures
"The German low-cost airline Air Berlin and its subsidiary DBA together counted almost 1.38 million passengers in November this year, representing an 8.5 per cent increase. The load factor rose by 1.1 percentage points to 68.7 per cent for the month under review, in a year-on-year comparison."
"The German low-cost airline Air Berlin and its subsidiary DBA together counted almost 1.38 million passengers in November this year, representing an 8.5 per cent increase. The load factor rose by 1.1 percentage points to 68.7 per cent for the month under review, in a year-on-year comparison."
The 10 most influential people in the online travel industry
"The english media portal Travolution* has gathered the votes and opinions of its readers to finally released a list of the 10 most influential people in the online travel industry over the past decade. “The final 10 is, we believe, a collection of the finest thinkers and strategists since 1996, and sometimes those just simply brave enough to try to break new ground.” Here are 5 people selected from the list of the 10 most influential people: ..."
"The english media portal Travolution* has gathered the votes and opinions of its readers to finally released a list of the 10 most influential people in the online travel industry over the past decade. “The final 10 is, we believe, a collection of the finest thinkers and strategists since 1996, and sometimes those just simply brave enough to try to break new ground.” Here are 5 people selected from the list of the 10 most influential people: ..."
Ryanair makes last push to Aer Lingus shareholders, won't raise takeover offer
"Ryanair sent a comprehensive letter to all Aer Lingus shareholders Friday urging them to approve the LCC's €2.80 ($3.70)-per-share takeover bid before a Dec. 22 deadline. Ryanair investors voted overwhelmingly to back the takeover at an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders last week. The LCC appears to be making a last push to convince El shareholders to accept its offer, which it said is "generous" and will not be increased. The letter from Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary asserted that El management is incapable of driving down costs and operating the airline profitably, repeatedly pointing to a "recent decline" in financial performance and passenger numbers. In contrast, he said, Ryanair would "lower fares, lower fuel surcharges [and develop] a better long-haul product, better service delivery, [operate] cheaper aircraft and significantly lower costs."
"Ryanair sent a comprehensive letter to all Aer Lingus shareholders Friday urging them to approve the LCC's €2.80 ($3.70)-per-share takeover bid before a Dec. 22 deadline. Ryanair investors voted overwhelmingly to back the takeover at an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders last week. The LCC appears to be making a last push to convince El shareholders to accept its offer, which it said is "generous" and will not be increased. The letter from Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary asserted that El management is incapable of driving down costs and operating the airline profitably, repeatedly pointing to a "recent decline" in financial performance and passenger numbers. In contrast, he said, Ryanair would "lower fares, lower fuel surcharges [and develop] a better long-haul product, better service delivery, [operate] cheaper aircraft and significantly lower costs."
UK government backs Heathrow, Stansted expansion but stresses environment
"The UK government last week reasserted the need for aviation capacity expansion in the crowded London market, including the building of a third runway at Heathrow and a second at Stansted, but cautioned that environmental concerns need to be a strong consideration in any expansion plans. The UK issued a required review of its 2003 "The Future of Air Transport" White Paper, which called for adding capacity because of the "essential role that aviation plays in our economy and continued prosperity." Last week's update emphasized that "sustainable economic growth requires recognition of our environmental responsibilities."
"The UK government last week reasserted the need for aviation capacity expansion in the crowded London market, including the building of a third runway at Heathrow and a second at Stansted, but cautioned that environmental concerns need to be a strong consideration in any expansion plans. The UK issued a required review of its 2003 "The Future of Air Transport" White Paper, which called for adding capacity because of the "essential role that aviation plays in our economy and continued prosperity." Last week's update emphasized that "sustainable economic growth requires recognition of our environmental responsibilities."
Low-cost airlines step up French dispute
"Low-cost airlines are stepping up their fight against the French government as Paris tries to force EasyJet and Ryanair to move the staff they employ on French soil from British employment contracts to more expensive French ones. The airlines are resisting the switch, which would force them to pay higher social security charges on their employees and improve their channels of employee and union representation."
"Low-cost airlines are stepping up their fight against the French government as Paris tries to force EasyJet and Ryanair to move the staff they employ on French soil from British employment contracts to more expensive French ones. The airlines are resisting the switch, which would force them to pay higher social security charges on their employees and improve their channels of employee and union representation."
Flybe boss has to sit on the fence
"It's Flybe v Flybe in today's Championship game at St Mary's, and the airline's boss says he's got splinters in his backside from sitting on the fence, writes Gareth Lewis. General manager Ian Taylor, pictured below, says he will be listening to the game outside the ground on a radio, rather than showing favouritism by picking an end inside."
"It's Flybe v Flybe in today's Championship game at St Mary's, and the airline's boss says he's got splinters in his backside from sitting on the fence, writes Gareth Lewis. General manager Ian Taylor, pictured below, says he will be listening to the game outside the ground on a radio, rather than showing favouritism by picking an end inside."
EasyJet accused of breaking French labour laws
"French authorities said today they are investigating low-cost airline EasyJet for suspected labour code violations. Authorities are looking at whether the airline violated French law by hiring workers at Orly airport, south of Paris, with British work contracts."
"French authorities said today they are investigating low-cost airline EasyJet for suspected labour code violations. Authorities are looking at whether the airline violated French law by hiring workers at Orly airport, south of Paris, with British work contracts."
Lufthansa sues Frankfurt Hahn Airport for alleged indirect Ryanair Holdings Plc payments
"Deutsche Lufthansa AG has accused Frankfurt Hahn Airport of allegedly granting indirect payments to Irish budget airline company Ryanair Holdings Plc. Lufthansa is demanding that Ryanair return 2.7 mln eur to Frankfurt Hahn that it received in reduced airport fees. The German airline giant is also demanding information regarding money paid to Ryanair between 2002-05 in the form of marketing support."
"Deutsche Lufthansa AG has accused Frankfurt Hahn Airport of allegedly granting indirect payments to Irish budget airline company Ryanair Holdings Plc. Lufthansa is demanding that Ryanair return 2.7 mln eur to Frankfurt Hahn that it received in reduced airport fees. The German airline giant is also demanding information regarding money paid to Ryanair between 2002-05 in the form of marketing support."
Friday, December 15, 2006
Flybe celebrates 1st anniversary of fair deal on baggage
" Flybe is celebrating the success of its Fair Deal on Baggage initiative pioneered by the airline back in December 2005. Since its inception a year ago, the innovative move by Flybe has undone an historical inequity in which the cost of handling baggage had been spread across all travellers, regardless of how much baggage they brought on board."
" Flybe is celebrating the success of its Fair Deal on Baggage initiative pioneered by the airline back in December 2005. Since its inception a year ago, the innovative move by Flybe has undone an historical inequity in which the cost of handling baggage had been spread across all travellers, regardless of how much baggage they brought on board."
Impact of low-cost carriers not evaluated to the full – Minister Zammit Dimech
"One still has to analyse the full impact of the introduction of low-cost carriers. However, airport departure figures show that there was a 5.2 per cent rise in November, and the upward trend is expected to carry on during December, said Tourism and Culture Minister Francis Zammit Dimech."
"One still has to analyse the full impact of the introduction of low-cost carriers. However, airport departure figures show that there was a 5.2 per cent rise in November, and the upward trend is expected to carry on during December, said Tourism and Culture Minister Francis Zammit Dimech."
Hungary selected three bidders for next round of airline sale
"Hungary picked three bidders for negotiations to sell state airline Malév Zrt in the government's seventh attempt to find a buyer for the unprofitable carrier. The Hungary's asset-sales agency, State Privatization and Holding Company (ÁPV), selected Ofer Hava, an Entrepreneur who is in a group with former Aer Lingus Chairman Tom Mulcahy, Airbridge Zrt, a local investment vehicle for OAO KrasAir owner Boris Abramovich, and Lithuanian airline owner LAL investiciju valdymas, according to an e-mailed statement. Hungary spent more than Ft 16 billion (€58.9 million) propping up Malév as the company struggled with debt and competition from discount carriers like EasyJet Plc after the country joined the European Union in 2004. A year ago, it gained affiliate status with British Airways Plc's Oneworld Alliance. Sky Alliance Zrt, a group of former Malév employees, was ruled out of the bidding."
"Hungary picked three bidders for negotiations to sell state airline Malév Zrt in the government's seventh attempt to find a buyer for the unprofitable carrier. The Hungary's asset-sales agency, State Privatization and Holding Company (ÁPV), selected Ofer Hava, an Entrepreneur who is in a group with former Aer Lingus Chairman Tom Mulcahy, Airbridge Zrt, a local investment vehicle for OAO KrasAir owner Boris Abramovich, and Lithuanian airline owner LAL investiciju valdymas, according to an e-mailed statement. Hungary spent more than Ft 16 billion (€58.9 million) propping up Malév as the company struggled with debt and competition from discount carriers like EasyJet Plc after the country joined the European Union in 2004. A year ago, it gained affiliate status with British Airways Plc's Oneworld Alliance. Sky Alliance Zrt, a group of former Malév employees, was ruled out of the bidding."
TUI Plans Jobs Cuts, Asset Sales; Scraps Profit Aims
"TUI AG, Europe's largest travel company, plans to cut 3,600 jobs at its tourism division, omit payment of a dividend this year and sell assets to rein in costs and pay back debt to offset slowing earnings growth. The company will sell a harbor terminal in Montreal, Canada, several small ships owned by its CP Ships unit and properties not needed for the operating business, the Hanover, Germany-based company said in a statement on the OTS newswire today. By 2008, net debt will decline to 2.5 billion euros ($3.3 billion) from 2.9 billion euros in September this year."
"TUI AG, Europe's largest travel company, plans to cut 3,600 jobs at its tourism division, omit payment of a dividend this year and sell assets to rein in costs and pay back debt to offset slowing earnings growth. The company will sell a harbor terminal in Montreal, Canada, several small ships owned by its CP Ships unit and properties not needed for the operating business, the Hanover, Germany-based company said in a statement on the OTS newswire today. By 2008, net debt will decline to 2.5 billion euros ($3.3 billion) from 2.9 billion euros in September this year."
EasyJet's offices raided by French police
"A 40-strong team of gendarmes and inspectors raided easyJet's base at Orly Airport outside Paris yesterday as part of an inquiry into allegations that the low-cost airline is infringing French employment legislation. The raid came amid claims that its 130 pilots, stewards and air hostesses based at Orly should have French and not British work contracts. French prosecutors said they were gathering evidence before deciding whether to open a full-scale investigation for “illegal employment practices”."
"A 40-strong team of gendarmes and inspectors raided easyJet's base at Orly Airport outside Paris yesterday as part of an inquiry into allegations that the low-cost airline is infringing French employment legislation. The raid came amid claims that its 130 pilots, stewards and air hostesses based at Orly should have French and not British work contracts. French prosecutors said they were gathering evidence before deciding whether to open a full-scale investigation for “illegal employment practices”."
Easyjet considers Alicante for second Spanish base
"Juan Jose Ripoll, the president of Alicante provincial council, and Antonio Fernandez Valenzuela, the president of Alicante's Chamber of Commerce, signed an agreement yesterday aimed at increasing traffic through Alicante's El Altet airport. It was also revealed that contact has been made with Easyjet, the leading low cost carrier that uses the airport, bringing over a million passengers to the province each year, in the knowledge that it was seeking to set up a second operational base in Spain."
"Juan Jose Ripoll, the president of Alicante provincial council, and Antonio Fernandez Valenzuela, the president of Alicante's Chamber of Commerce, signed an agreement yesterday aimed at increasing traffic through Alicante's El Altet airport. It was also revealed that contact has been made with Easyjet, the leading low cost carrier that uses the airport, bringing over a million passengers to the province each year, in the knowledge that it was seeking to set up a second operational base in Spain."
O’Leary refuses to say if Aer Lingus bid will be increased
"Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has refused to say if the no-frills airline will make a fresh bid for Aer Lingus. Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has refused to say if the no-frills airline will make a fresh bid for Aer Lingus. Aer Lingus shareholders have until tomorrow week to accept Ryanair's offer of €2.80 per share. Speaking at a Ryanair EGM in Dublin this morning, Mr O'Leary admitted that his current bid was unlikely to succeed, but denied that this would be the biggest corporate failure of his career."
"Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has refused to say if the no-frills airline will make a fresh bid for Aer Lingus. Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has refused to say if the no-frills airline will make a fresh bid for Aer Lingus. Aer Lingus shareholders have until tomorrow week to accept Ryanair's offer of €2.80 per share. Speaking at a Ryanair EGM in Dublin this morning, Mr O'Leary admitted that his current bid was unlikely to succeed, but denied that this would be the biggest corporate failure of his career."
Thursday, December 14, 2006
O'Leary criticises Aer Lingus management
"Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary has launched another attack on the credibility of management at Aer Lingus. Speaking at a Ryanair Extraordinary General Meeting this morning, he accused Aer Lingus bosses of misleading the public at the time of the company's flotation.
Mr O'Leary said they backed a share price of €2.20, yet refused Ryanair's offer of €2.80 claiming that it seriously undervalued the airline."
"Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary has launched another attack on the credibility of management at Aer Lingus. Speaking at a Ryanair Extraordinary General Meeting this morning, he accused Aer Lingus bosses of misleading the public at the time of the company's flotation.
Mr O'Leary said they backed a share price of €2.20, yet refused Ryanair's offer of €2.80 claiming that it seriously undervalued the airline."
Flight forced to return to Belfast
"A flight from Belfast to Southampton had to make an emergency landing after the aircraft experienced difficulties yesterday evening. The incident happened just before 6.30pm when the Flybe flight containing 54 passengers was forced to return to George Best Belfast City Airport after the pilot reported that he was experiencing technical difficulties. Emergency services were called to the scene and the nearby Sydenham by-pass in east Belfast was closed until the plane returned."
"A flight from Belfast to Southampton had to make an emergency landing after the aircraft experienced difficulties yesterday evening. The incident happened just before 6.30pm when the Flybe flight containing 54 passengers was forced to return to George Best Belfast City Airport after the pilot reported that he was experiencing technical difficulties. Emergency services were called to the scene and the nearby Sydenham by-pass in east Belfast was closed until the plane returned."
BMI Operates Nearly 2,000 Flights A Week Over A Network Of 36 Airports In Europe, Asia, Middle East And Transatlantic To The US And Caribbean
"Research and Markets has announced the addition of “British Midland International: Company Analysis” to their offering. The growth in the UK aviation industry has been fuelled by the emergence of low-cost scheduled air travel services and the rise in the number of passengers, airlines and routes. Today, passengers in the UK market enjoy a choice of low-cost airlines, regional services, European short-haul and international long-haul travel, along with a wide choice of carriers. These developments present a dramatic change from the flag carrier-dominated skies of 1980s."
"Research and Markets has announced the addition of “British Midland International: Company Analysis” to their offering. The growth in the UK aviation industry has been fuelled by the emergence of low-cost scheduled air travel services and the rise in the number of passengers, airlines and routes. Today, passengers in the UK market enjoy a choice of low-cost airlines, regional services, European short-haul and international long-haul travel, along with a wide choice of carriers. These developments present a dramatic change from the flag carrier-dominated skies of 1980s."
Budget carrier Ryan Air to launch Bulgaria route in '07
"No-frills airline RyanAir will start offering flights to Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second biggest city, from August 2007, said Plamen Nikolov, executive director of the Plovdiv airport. The low cost carrier will fly from Plovdiv to destinations in Britain, Spain and Germany which have a substantial population of Bulgarian expats. In Germany, RyanAir will use the Hahn airport near Frankfurt. The destination airports in Britain and Spain have not been specified. In related news, it emerged that the Sofia airport is in talks with both Ryan Air and easyJet. EasyJet refused to provide more information."
"No-frills airline RyanAir will start offering flights to Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second biggest city, from August 2007, said Plamen Nikolov, executive director of the Plovdiv airport. The low cost carrier will fly from Plovdiv to destinations in Britain, Spain and Germany which have a substantial population of Bulgarian expats. In Germany, RyanAir will use the Hahn airport near Frankfurt. The destination airports in Britain and Spain have not been specified. In related news, it emerged that the Sofia airport is in talks with both Ryan Air and easyJet. EasyJet refused to provide more information."
Ryanair to increase frequency from Shannon
"Low cost carrier Ryanair has announced six new routes and an increase in the number of flights from Cork and Shannon. But it is also cutting six routes. The new routes are Barcelona-Cagliari, Bremen-Malaga, London Stansted-Brussels (Charleroi), Bergamo-Valladolid, Pisa-Cagliari and Rome-Madrid."
"Low cost carrier Ryanair has announced six new routes and an increase in the number of flights from Cork and Shannon. But it is also cutting six routes. The new routes are Barcelona-Cagliari, Bremen-Malaga, London Stansted-Brussels (Charleroi), Bergamo-Valladolid, Pisa-Cagliari and Rome-Madrid."
Budget airline cuts Oslo service
"Flights between Tyneside and Norway are to be scrapped in March, a low-cost airline has announced. Ryanair is axing its Newcastle to Oslo flights to pay for six new routes to and from other European airports. The service will stop on 24 March. The airline is planning to increase routes between other destinations including Barcelona, Bremen and Milan."
"Flights between Tyneside and Norway are to be scrapped in March, a low-cost airline has announced. Ryanair is axing its Newcastle to Oslo flights to pay for six new routes to and from other European airports. The service will stop on 24 March. The airline is planning to increase routes between other destinations including Barcelona, Bremen and Milan."
Watchdog call for BAA airport inquiry
"Baa's ownership of London's main airports looked under threat yesterday after a regulator called for a full inquiry into its supply of airport services. The Office of Fair Trading said it believed the current market structure 'does not deliver best value for air travellers in the UK' and added that greater competition could bring significant benefits for passengers."
"Baa's ownership of London's main airports looked under threat yesterday after a regulator called for a full inquiry into its supply of airport services. The Office of Fair Trading said it believed the current market structure 'does not deliver best value for air travellers in the UK' and added that greater competition could bring significant benefits for passengers."
JLA chief says airport future will be hit by doubling duty
"Fewer new routes could come to Liverpool John Lennon Airport (JLA) in the future if the decision to double air passenger duty (APD) goes ahead, its managing director, Neil Pakey, said yesterday. In his pre-Budget statement last week, Chancellor Gordon Brown said APD would rise from £5 to £10 for those economy-seat passengers taking domestic and European short-haul flights from February 1 next year."
"Fewer new routes could come to Liverpool John Lennon Airport (JLA) in the future if the decision to double air passenger duty (APD) goes ahead, its managing director, Neil Pakey, said yesterday. In his pre-Budget statement last week, Chancellor Gordon Brown said APD would rise from £5 to £10 for those economy-seat passengers taking domestic and European short-haul flights from February 1 next year."
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Gatwick sale in air as BAA faces break up
"Delays, delays, and more delays: new report blames airport operator BAA for high fees and passenger chaos. Gatwick Airport could be for sale within weeks with a price tag of up to £3 billion after the break-up of BAA's London airport monopoly was signalled by the UK's competition authorities. With BAA's control of 90 per cent of the London market through its ownership of Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted set for a probe by the Competition, industry insiders believe BAA's new Spanish owner Ferrovial could be set to hatch a Gatwick sale plan."
"Delays, delays, and more delays: new report blames airport operator BAA for high fees and passenger chaos. Gatwick Airport could be for sale within weeks with a price tag of up to £3 billion after the break-up of BAA's London airport monopoly was signalled by the UK's competition authorities. With BAA's control of 90 per cent of the London market through its ownership of Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted set for a probe by the Competition, industry insiders believe BAA's new Spanish owner Ferrovial could be set to hatch a Gatwick sale plan."
Airport ordered to disclose Ryanair deal
"A publicly-owned airport in the North has been ordered to disclose its secret deal with Ryanair, it emerged today. In a landmark case City of Derry Airport has been told to reveal its financial arrangements with Europe's largest low-cost carrier. The ruling by the Information Tribunal follows a two-year fight by airport owners Derry City Council against a Freedom of Information request."
"A publicly-owned airport in the North has been ordered to disclose its secret deal with Ryanair, it emerged today. In a landmark case City of Derry Airport has been told to reveal its financial arrangements with Europe's largest low-cost carrier. The ruling by the Information Tribunal follows a two-year fight by airport owners Derry City Council against a Freedom of Information request."
Ryanair champions competition
"The decision by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to refer BAA to the Competition Commission, reported earlier today, has been praised by low-fares airline Ryanair. According to the OFT, "greater competition within the industry could bring significant benefits for passengers" and Ryanair's chief executive Michael O'Leary is in full agreement. "Competition works," he stated. "It leads to more choice and better services for consumers. We again call for the break up of the BAA monopoly. Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted should be spun out into separately owned, independent, competing airports, where the market and airport users will have more influence over the type of low cost, efficient facilities that are provided.""
"The decision by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to refer BAA to the Competition Commission, reported earlier today, has been praised by low-fares airline Ryanair. According to the OFT, "greater competition within the industry could bring significant benefits for passengers" and Ryanair's chief executive Michael O'Leary is in full agreement. "Competition works," he stated. "It leads to more choice and better services for consumers. We again call for the break up of the BAA monopoly. Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted should be spun out into separately owned, independent, competing airports, where the market and airport users will have more influence over the type of low cost, efficient facilities that are provided.""
EasyJet unveils summer flights for 2007
"EasyJet has today released its schedule for 2007 and customers have been advised that flights from Gatwick, Luton and Stansted are already on sale. Six new routes will be opened from London in the New Year, flying to a range of Europe's most popular destinations."
"EasyJet has today released its schedule for 2007 and customers have been advised that flights from Gatwick, Luton and Stansted are already on sale. Six new routes will be opened from London in the New Year, flying to a range of Europe's most popular destinations."
Ryanair lambastes 15% charge hike at Dublin Airport; DDA says charges lowest of major airports in Europe
"Ryanair, Europe’s largest low fares airline, today called for urgent action to stop the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) "monopoly’s price gouging of Irish passengers." However, the DDA says that charges at the airport are the lowest of Europe's major airports."
"Ryanair, Europe’s largest low fares airline, today called for urgent action to stop the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) "monopoly’s price gouging of Irish passengers." However, the DDA says that charges at the airport are the lowest of Europe's major airports."
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Canadians tap into international low-cost airlines
"Low-cost carriers are huge in Europe and now international connections are available to Canadians. Flyglobespan, the Scottish low-cost airline, will have a unique marketing pitch for Canadians this spring when it begins flying between the United Kingdom and Hamilton. The Edinburgh-based airline is saying, in effect: Let us deliver you to our competitors."
"Low-cost carriers are huge in Europe and now international connections are available to Canadians. Flyglobespan, the Scottish low-cost airline, will have a unique marketing pitch for Canadians this spring when it begins flying between the United Kingdom and Hamilton. The Edinburgh-based airline is saying, in effect: Let us deliver you to our competitors."
Three new routes from easyJet
"easyJet have put three new routes on sale including London (Gatwick) to Palermo (starting 18 June 2007) and Pisa (from 03 April), and also from Athens to Paris (Orly) (from 04 May). These flights are available to book from today."
"easyJet have put three new routes on sale including London (Gatwick) to Palermo (starting 18 June 2007) and Pisa (from 03 April), and also from Athens to Paris (Orly) (from 04 May). These flights are available to book from today."
Hard to get bmibaby 'free' flights
"I took out a bmibaby credit card earlier this year with the offer of a free flight . I plan to go out to Spain with my wife in Feb. 07, hardly peak season, yet my efforts to get the 'free' ticket have proved to be impossible. I have travelled with bmibaby on many occasions, but after this experience my custom will go elsewhere."
"I took out a bmibaby credit card earlier this year with the offer of a free flight . I plan to go out to Spain with my wife in Feb. 07, hardly peak season, yet my efforts to get the 'free' ticket have proved to be impossible. I have travelled with bmibaby on many occasions, but after this experience my custom will go elsewhere."
Monday, December 11, 2006
Ryanair's gift vouchers leave little room to manoeuvre
"David O'Mahony from Clare has been in touch about Ryanair's travel vouchers which leave a lot to be desired. He recently visited the budget airline's website, planning to buy a family member a gift voucher as a Christmas present. He was less than pleased, however, when he read the terms and conditions and found that if the person who receives the vouchers books a flight which is less than the amount on the voucher, the balance is non-refundable."
"David O'Mahony from Clare has been in touch about Ryanair's travel vouchers which leave a lot to be desired. He recently visited the budget airline's website, planning to buy a family member a gift voucher as a Christmas present. He was less than pleased, however, when he read the terms and conditions and found that if the person who receives the vouchers books a flight which is less than the amount on the voucher, the balance is non-refundable."
Air Berlin decides not to carry out capital increase
"German airline Air Berlin has said that a capital increase will not be needed in order to finance the order that it has placed for 60 aircraft from US manufacturer Boeing. The company says that the deposit will be paid with liquid funds and some external financing, while the remaining sum that will be paid on delivery of the aircraft will be financed with mortgages, as is usual in the sector. The airline has not said how high the deposit will be, pointing out that it has agreed with Boeing to keep the price confidential."
"German airline Air Berlin has said that a capital increase will not be needed in order to finance the order that it has placed for 60 aircraft from US manufacturer Boeing. The company says that the deposit will be paid with liquid funds and some external financing, while the remaining sum that will be paid on delivery of the aircraft will be financed with mortgages, as is usual in the sector. The airline has not said how high the deposit will be, pointing out that it has agreed with Boeing to keep the price confidential."
Vueling down 2.06%
"In Madrid, shares in low-cost Spanish airline Vueling fell 2.06 per cent yesterday to 32.33 euros. Yesterday, the airline, which made its share market debut on December 1, revealed that a green shoe option had been exercised over 637,195 Vueling shares at 30 euros each."
"In Madrid, shares in low-cost Spanish airline Vueling fell 2.06 per cent yesterday to 32.33 euros. Yesterday, the airline, which made its share market debut on December 1, revealed that a green shoe option had been exercised over 637,195 Vueling shares at 30 euros each."
EasyJet calls for clarification over 'tax trap'
"EasyJet is calling on the chancellor to clarify whether or not those passengers who have already bought tickets for flights departing after February 1 will be eligible to pay the increased air passenger duty (APD). On Wednesday, Gordon Brown included an increase in APD as part of the pre-Budget report – meaning a rise of £5 for short-haul flights, and between £20 and £40 for long-haul. The move was heavily criticised by both the aviation industry and environmental groups and easyJet sees it as particularly unfair to impose extra charges on those who had already purchased their flights."
"EasyJet is calling on the chancellor to clarify whether or not those passengers who have already bought tickets for flights departing after February 1 will be eligible to pay the increased air passenger duty (APD). On Wednesday, Gordon Brown included an increase in APD as part of the pre-Budget report – meaning a rise of £5 for short-haul flights, and between £20 and £40 for long-haul. The move was heavily criticised by both the aviation industry and environmental groups and easyJet sees it as particularly unfair to impose extra charges on those who had already purchased their flights."
Monarch discounts flights to Canaries by up to 40%
"Book before midnight on Monday, December 11: Monarch Scheduled is offering a hefty discount on flights to the Canary Islands – up to 40 per cent. Travel in December and January to March 2007. The routes included in this sale, all one-way with taxes."
"Book before midnight on Monday, December 11: Monarch Scheduled is offering a hefty discount on flights to the Canary Islands – up to 40 per cent. Travel in December and January to March 2007. The routes included in this sale, all one-way with taxes."
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Centralwings may be sold on the Warsaw Stock Exchange
"The Ministry of the Treasure wants to sell Centralwings. The low-cost carrier may be listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. Ireneusz Dabrowski, the deputy Minister of the Treasure would like to sell Centralwings, the low-cost carrier owned by LOT flag carrier. The company may be listed. Before, however, LOT will have its IPO. “We plan to do it next year. The Ministry of the Treasure wants to keep a controlling stake. This solution should be advantageous for LOT bankruptcy officer”, Ireneusz Dąbrowski said. After LOT is listed, the ministry will take care of Centralwings. “There are offers from investors interested in acquiring this company so it may be sold”, Ireneusz Dabrowski said. However, Ryanair will not be offered the low-cost carrier."
"The Ministry of the Treasure wants to sell Centralwings. The low-cost carrier may be listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. Ireneusz Dabrowski, the deputy Minister of the Treasure would like to sell Centralwings, the low-cost carrier owned by LOT flag carrier. The company may be listed. Before, however, LOT will have its IPO. “We plan to do it next year. The Ministry of the Treasure wants to keep a controlling stake. This solution should be advantageous for LOT bankruptcy officer”, Ireneusz Dąbrowski said. After LOT is listed, the ministry will take care of Centralwings. “There are offers from investors interested in acquiring this company so it may be sold”, Ireneusz Dabrowski said. However, Ryanair will not be offered the low-cost carrier."
We don't hike fares: easyJet
"I was disappointed to read the incorrect and misleading article in the Belfast Telegraph on November 30 entitled Sky high. First, to say that easyJet has hiked fares during the Christmas period is incorrect. In fact, easyJet's pricing policy is to sell seats on a first come, first served basis. All flights start at the lowest fare and, as the flight sells out, the price gradually increases. This is why we encourage people to book well in advance for the lowest fares."
"I was disappointed to read the incorrect and misleading article in the Belfast Telegraph on November 30 entitled Sky high. First, to say that easyJet has hiked fares during the Christmas period is incorrect. In fact, easyJet's pricing policy is to sell seats on a first come, first served basis. All flights start at the lowest fare and, as the flight sells out, the price gradually increases. This is why we encourage people to book well in advance for the lowest fares."
Ryanair didn't tell pilots about runway changes
"Budget carrier Ryanair was at the centre of a storm today after a hard-hitting report found one of its aircraft nearly crashed at an Irish airport. The Boeing 737 from Gatwick to Knock in Co Mayo was carrying 144 passengers and crew last March when it marginally avoided crashing, according to a report by Ireland’s Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU). A member of the Dáil today hit out at the carrier after investigators found pilots were not told by the airline about new changes to the runway at the rural airport."
"Budget carrier Ryanair was at the centre of a storm today after a hard-hitting report found one of its aircraft nearly crashed at an Irish airport. The Boeing 737 from Gatwick to Knock in Co Mayo was carrying 144 passengers and crew last March when it marginally avoided crashing, according to a report by Ireland’s Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU). A member of the Dáil today hit out at the carrier after investigators found pilots were not told by the airline about new changes to the runway at the rural airport."
Ryanair passenger numbers up, load factor down
"Ryanair’s carried 3,161,617 passengers in November, up almost 413,000 on the figure for the same month last year. Ryanair’s carried 3,161,617 passengers in November, up almost 413,000 on the figure for the same month last year. However, the airline’s load factor, or percentage of available seats purchased, was down 2% at 79%."
"Ryanair’s carried 3,161,617 passengers in November, up almost 413,000 on the figure for the same month last year. Ryanair’s carried 3,161,617 passengers in November, up almost 413,000 on the figure for the same month last year. However, the airline’s load factor, or percentage of available seats purchased, was down 2% at 79%."
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Vueling sees share price rise almost 10% on first day of trading
"Spanish low-cost start-up airline Vueling, which floated its shares on the Spanish stock market yesterday, saw an increase in share price of almost 10 per cent on the first day of trading. The shares closed up 9.97 per cent, at 32.99 euros, making Vueling's flotation the second most successful so far this year. In total, 3.8 million Vueling shares changed hands, 25 per cent of share capital, in operations worth 128m euros in total."
"Spanish low-cost start-up airline Vueling, which floated its shares on the Spanish stock market yesterday, saw an increase in share price of almost 10 per cent on the first day of trading. The shares closed up 9.97 per cent, at 32.99 euros, making Vueling's flotation the second most successful so far this year. In total, 3.8 million Vueling shares changed hands, 25 per cent of share capital, in operations worth 128m euros in total."
SkyEurope's full-year losses double
"SkyEurope Airlines ended its first full fiscal year as a listed company deeper in the red as it doubled its net loss in the 12 months ended Sept. 30 to €57.3 million ($76.4 million) from the €28.6 million shed in the previous year. Revenues rose 41% to €158.6 million against expenses of €213.8 million, widening operating loss to €55.2 million from €33.6 million last year. Net loss in the fourth fiscal quarter totaled €7.1 million."
"SkyEurope Airlines ended its first full fiscal year as a listed company deeper in the red as it doubled its net loss in the 12 months ended Sept. 30 to €57.3 million ($76.4 million) from the €28.6 million shed in the previous year. Revenues rose 41% to €158.6 million against expenses of €213.8 million, widening operating loss to €55.2 million from €33.6 million last year. Net loss in the fourth fiscal quarter totaled €7.1 million."
Ryanair extends Aer Lingus deadline
"Budget airline Ryanair has extended for a second time the deadline for Aer Lingus shareholders to accept its takeover offer after investors with less than 1 per cent of the carrier accepted its bid. "Ryanair announces that, as at 3.00pm on 4 December, valid acceptances of the offer had been received in respect of 4,963,908 Aer Lingus shares (representing approximately 0.928 per cent of the issued share capital)," it said today. The bid, which values Aer Lingus at €1.48 billion (£1 billion), is widely expected to fail given intense opposition from major shareholders, including the Government with 25 per cent and current and former Aer Lingus staff with 12.6 per cent."
"Budget airline Ryanair has extended for a second time the deadline for Aer Lingus shareholders to accept its takeover offer after investors with less than 1 per cent of the carrier accepted its bid. "Ryanair announces that, as at 3.00pm on 4 December, valid acceptances of the offer had been received in respect of 4,963,908 Aer Lingus shares (representing approximately 0.928 per cent of the issued share capital)," it said today. The bid, which values Aer Lingus at €1.48 billion (£1 billion), is widely expected to fail given intense opposition from major shareholders, including the Government with 25 per cent and current and former Aer Lingus staff with 12.6 per cent."
Malta Gets New Low Cost Airline Boost
"Ryanair's decision to fly to Malta is welcome news for a beleaguered hotel and holiday industry. The news that the Malta tourist industry has been waiting for so long for has finally been confirmed - low cost flights to the island have been granted approval and the first flights have arrived already. Visitor numbers to the Mediterranean holiday island have been in decline this year, and culmilated in rumours that a UK tour operator was considering pulling Malta out of its brochures for next year, which would sharply accelerate the decline from a destination competing with Spain and her islands for tourists to a much smaller niche market player. Hotel and resort owners have seen the Maltese government drag the negotiations out with the low cost airlines for some time, with delays in agreements losing Malta the potential of having extra tourists for this summer season."
"Ryanair's decision to fly to Malta is welcome news for a beleaguered hotel and holiday industry. The news that the Malta tourist industry has been waiting for so long for has finally been confirmed - low cost flights to the island have been granted approval and the first flights have arrived already. Visitor numbers to the Mediterranean holiday island have been in decline this year, and culmilated in rumours that a UK tour operator was considering pulling Malta out of its brochures for next year, which would sharply accelerate the decline from a destination competing with Spain and her islands for tourists to a much smaller niche market player. Hotel and resort owners have seen the Maltese government drag the negotiations out with the low cost airlines for some time, with delays in agreements losing Malta the potential of having extra tourists for this summer season."
Ryanair error blamed after passenger jet nearly crashed into airport
"A Ryanair aircraft “marginally avoided” crashing after the airline failed to inform its pilots of changes to the approach to an airport, according to the official report on the incident. The aircraft emerged from low cloud only 400ft from the ground, triggering an alarm and forcing the captain to make an emergency ascent. The Irish airline also failed to report the incident to Ireland’s Air Accident Investigation Unit for almost two weeks, by which time some of the evidence had been deleted."
"A Ryanair aircraft “marginally avoided” crashing after the airline failed to inform its pilots of changes to the approach to an airport, according to the official report on the incident. The aircraft emerged from low cloud only 400ft from the ground, triggering an alarm and forcing the captain to make an emergency ascent. The Irish airline also failed to report the incident to Ireland’s Air Accident Investigation Unit for almost two weeks, by which time some of the evidence had been deleted."
Regulator to remove Stansted price caps
"Aviation regulator proposed removing caps on the prices airport operator BAA can charge airlines using Stansted airport on Tuesday but recommended widening price controls at Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also proposed cutting BAA's allowed cost of capital, or the rate of return it can earn on investments, but not as far as hoped by some airlines. The CAA's proposals were made as part of a consultation on the prices BAA can charge airlines using London's three regulated airports from 2008 to 2013."
"Aviation regulator proposed removing caps on the prices airport operator BAA can charge airlines using Stansted airport on Tuesday but recommended widening price controls at Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also proposed cutting BAA's allowed cost of capital, or the rate of return it can earn on investments, but not as far as hoped by some airlines. The CAA's proposals were made as part of a consultation on the prices BAA can charge airlines using London's three regulated airports from 2008 to 2013."
Monday, December 04, 2006
Ryanair to charge for priority boarding
"Ryanair has followed easyJet's lead and announced that it will charge for priority boarding. The low-cost airline's new boarding system will allow up to 60 passengers per flight to pay £2 to board first. These priority passengers will board ahead of families with small children, who until now have been at the head of the queue. Ryanair said the change would be to the advantage of those families and groups wishing to travel together on their flights. Rival easyJet announced its own "Speedy Boarding" last week (see easyJet offers quick boarding service), with fees amounting to between £2.50 and £7.50 depending on the length of the flight and the departure airport in question."
"Ryanair has followed easyJet's lead and announced that it will charge for priority boarding. The low-cost airline's new boarding system will allow up to 60 passengers per flight to pay £2 to board first. These priority passengers will board ahead of families with small children, who until now have been at the head of the queue. Ryanair said the change would be to the advantage of those families and groups wishing to travel together on their flights. Rival easyJet announced its own "Speedy Boarding" last week (see easyJet offers quick boarding service), with fees amounting to between £2.50 and £7.50 depending on the length of the flight and the departure airport in question."
Long delays for thousands of air passengers
"Those three little words on the flight monitors spelled chaos for thousands of stranded passengers at Dublin Airport yesterday. The severe weather - with gusts of up to 130kmph - forced dozens of outbound flights to be cancelled while many incoming flights were diverted to either Shannon, Belfast or Manchester. By 6pm last night, the departure area of Dublin Airport was heaving with thousands of delayed passengers - who had virtually no chance of getting to their intended destination."
"Those three little words on the flight monitors spelled chaos for thousands of stranded passengers at Dublin Airport yesterday. The severe weather - with gusts of up to 130kmph - forced dozens of outbound flights to be cancelled while many incoming flights were diverted to either Shannon, Belfast or Manchester. By 6pm last night, the departure area of Dublin Airport was heaving with thousands of delayed passengers - who had virtually no chance of getting to their intended destination."
Low-cost airlines flying high
"Flyglobespan, the Scottish low-cost airline, will have a unique marketing pitch for Canadians this spring when it begins flying between the United Kingdom and Hamilton, Ont. The Edinburgh-based airline is saying, in effect: Let us deliver you to our competitors. In addition to distributing its own glossy route maps, the four-year-old airline will tout access to the vast European networks of two of its biggest discount rivals -- Ryanair and easyJet -- from London's Stansted airport, now a Mecca for thrifty European air travellers. It will be the first daily flight by a low-cost airline from Canada to Stansted."
"Flyglobespan, the Scottish low-cost airline, will have a unique marketing pitch for Canadians this spring when it begins flying between the United Kingdom and Hamilton, Ont. The Edinburgh-based airline is saying, in effect: Let us deliver you to our competitors. In addition to distributing its own glossy route maps, the four-year-old airline will tout access to the vast European networks of two of its biggest discount rivals -- Ryanair and easyJet -- from London's Stansted airport, now a Mecca for thrifty European air travellers. It will be the first daily flight by a low-cost airline from Canada to Stansted."
MPs want pre-Budget climate change focus
"MP's are urging Gordon Brown to stress the importance of climate change in his pre-Budget report next Wednesday. The environment audit committee (EAS) has called for the chancellor to focus upon climate change in his report. Some analysts have predicted that Mr Brown will increase excise duty on polluting 4x4's and add an extra tax on flights, a move that is expected to anger low cost airlines such as Ryanair which says "environmental taxation has repeatedly failed to have any reduction effect on emissions".
"MP's are urging Gordon Brown to stress the importance of climate change in his pre-Budget report next Wednesday. The environment audit committee (EAS) has called for the chancellor to focus upon climate change in his report. Some analysts have predicted that Mr Brown will increase excise duty on polluting 4x4's and add an extra tax on flights, a move that is expected to anger low cost airlines such as Ryanair which says "environmental taxation has repeatedly failed to have any reduction effect on emissions".
Ryanair tells kids: pay up or queue up
"Ryanair was criticised last week for abandoning its policy of allowing families with young children to board first. Instead, the airline has introduced a £2 charge per person to get to the front of queue to grab a seat. Ryanair called the move a “service improvement”, claiming that it “will be particularly advantageous for families and groups who wish to travel together.” Up to 60 of the 190 passengers on each flight will be allowed to pay to board first."
"Ryanair was criticised last week for abandoning its policy of allowing families with young children to board first. Instead, the airline has introduced a £2 charge per person to get to the front of queue to grab a seat. Ryanair called the move a “service improvement”, claiming that it “will be particularly advantageous for families and groups who wish to travel together.” Up to 60 of the 190 passengers on each flight will be allowed to pay to board first."
bmibaby announces routes to Barcelona, Lisbon, Marseille Provence and Rome
"bmibaby the award winning airline with tiny fares and the Midlands number one carrier has launched phase two of it’s exciting rapid expansion programme at Birmingham International Airport for Summer 2007. The expansion plan breaks down into three key initiatives: the introduction of four new routes to Barcelona, Lisbon, Marseille Provence and Rome (Fiumicino); a ramping up of frequencies on key Mediterranean routes; and an increase in frequencies on key domestic routes."
"bmibaby the award winning airline with tiny fares and the Midlands number one carrier has launched phase two of it’s exciting rapid expansion programme at Birmingham International Airport for Summer 2007. The expansion plan breaks down into three key initiatives: the introduction of four new routes to Barcelona, Lisbon, Marseille Provence and Rome (Fiumicino); a ramping up of frequencies on key Mediterranean routes; and an increase in frequencies on key domestic routes."
More Airlines want to fly to Malta
"Airlines in Spain, Norway and Sweden have expressed interest in initiating negotiations to commence operating flights to Malta. Recently, the government and Malta International Airport (MIA) launched proposals addressed to airlines willing to operate to Malta from selected routes. Interest has been generated mainly from the Spanish territory whereby both legacy and low cost carriers will be initiating negotiations to commence operating from Madrid. Moreover interest has also been forthcoming from a leading low cost Scandinavian airline that will be pursuing negotiations to operate both the Stockholm and Oslo routes."
"Airlines in Spain, Norway and Sweden have expressed interest in initiating negotiations to commence operating flights to Malta. Recently, the government and Malta International Airport (MIA) launched proposals addressed to airlines willing to operate to Malta from selected routes. Interest has been generated mainly from the Spanish territory whereby both legacy and low cost carriers will be initiating negotiations to commence operating from Madrid. Moreover interest has also been forthcoming from a leading low cost Scandinavian airline that will be pursuing negotiations to operate both the Stockholm and Oslo routes."
Friday, December 01, 2006
Ryanair must reinstate air hostess in 'napping' case
"A former Ryanair cabin crew member sacked for allegedly falling asleep on the job has said she is "delighted" that a tribunal has found she was unfairly dismissed. Vanessa Redmond was fired in July last year after a passenger complained she had blocked off rows of seats and fallen asleep while reading a novel on a Dublin to Durham flight. The Employment Appeals Tribunal ruled yesterday that Ryanair's disciplinary procedures had "shortcomings", and that Ms Redmond was unfairly dismissed. It ordered the airline to reinstate her within five weeks."
"A former Ryanair cabin crew member sacked for allegedly falling asleep on the job has said she is "delighted" that a tribunal has found she was unfairly dismissed. Vanessa Redmond was fired in July last year after a passenger complained she had blocked off rows of seats and fallen asleep while reading a novel on a Dublin to Durham flight. The Employment Appeals Tribunal ruled yesterday that Ryanair's disciplinary procedures had "shortcomings", and that Ms Redmond was unfairly dismissed. It ordered the airline to reinstate her within five weeks."
Ryanair braced for bid rejection
"Ryanair yesterday admitted that it had as much chance of having its £1bn bid for Aer Lingus accepted as the England rugby union side did of winning the Six Nations tournament. England's rugby team has lost eight of its past nine games and their coach stood down on Wednesday. The airline chief financial officer, Howard Millar, said of the bid: "We believe, at this stage, it is a long shot."
"Ryanair yesterday admitted that it had as much chance of having its £1bn bid for Aer Lingus accepted as the England rugby union side did of winning the Six Nations tournament. England's rugby team has lost eight of its past nine games and their coach stood down on Wednesday. The airline chief financial officer, Howard Millar, said of the bid: "We believe, at this stage, it is a long shot."
Iberia threatens split with BA
"Iberia could break a seven-year alliance with British Airways and join another group, the Spanish airline's finance and strategy director suggested in an interview with Expansion newspaper on Thursday. Enrique Dupuy de Lome told the paper Iberia did not feel "tied" to British Airways and could make a good partner for Air France KLM, the world's largest carrier in terms of revenue, or for Lufthansa. (...) Dupuy de Lome's comments come amid a new wave of attempted consolidation in the airline industry, with Air France KLM in early talks with struggling Alitalia and low-cost airline Ryanair trying to buy Aer Lingus."
"Iberia could break a seven-year alliance with British Airways and join another group, the Spanish airline's finance and strategy director suggested in an interview with Expansion newspaper on Thursday. Enrique Dupuy de Lome told the paper Iberia did not feel "tied" to British Airways and could make a good partner for Air France KLM, the world's largest carrier in terms of revenue, or for Lufthansa. (...) Dupuy de Lome's comments come amid a new wave of attempted consolidation in the airline industry, with Air France KLM in early talks with struggling Alitalia and low-cost airline Ryanair trying to buy Aer Lingus."
European Commission delays decision on Ryanair bid
"The European Commission has delayed a decision on Ryanair's proposed purchase of Aer Lingus to 20 December in order to consider possible remedies, it said this morning. The proposed remedies would fix anti-competitive problems identified by the commission. The extra time allows customers and competitors to comment on the proposed remedies. Shareholders opposed to the Ryanair bid still own over 46% of the airline."
"The European Commission has delayed a decision on Ryanair's proposed purchase of Aer Lingus to 20 December in order to consider possible remedies, it said this morning. The proposed remedies would fix anti-competitive problems identified by the commission. The extra time allows customers and competitors to comment on the proposed remedies. Shareholders opposed to the Ryanair bid still own over 46% of the airline."
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