The 787 Dreamliner’s first delivery changed what was possible

From Boeing:

Employees walk alongside the first 787 Dreamliner delivered in 2011 to present it to launch customer ANA.

The first 787 Dreamliner delivery 15 years ago launched a legacy that has exceeded many of the expectations set by the program’s earliest leaders.

“That first delivery symbolized the culmination of many, many years of extreme effort,” said Mike Sinnett, the 787 chief project engineer in 2011 and now BCA’s vice president and general manager of Product Development. “We believed the airplane was special and that it was going to connect people in ways they’d never been connected before. But I don’t think any of us knew the magnitude. It became bigger than any of us believed it would be.”

The 787 Dreamliner’s first delivery changed what was possible

15 years on, early program leaders say the airplane has gone beyond what they set out to deliver.Play Video

Watch the video to hear early program leaders share memories from the day of the first 787 Dreamliner delivery in 2011 and their reflections on the global impact of the best-selling passenger widebody in history.

The day that unlocked the 787’s potential: Sept. 26, 2011, dawned cool, gray and wet. Beneath overcast skies in Everett, Washington, more than 500 employees representing the 787 program walked alongside the all-new 787 Dreamliner as Boeing presented it to launch customer ANA, also known as All Nippon Airways, before a crowd of thousands.

It was a pivotal momentopens in a new tab following years of imagining, designing, building and testing an airplane intended to change what was possible.

“It was truly an emotional event. We had worked very hard for many years with our ANA customers and to have them there receiving the airplane, an airplane they had really put their reputation around was truly amazing and unforgettable,” said Scott Fancher, the 787 vice president and general manager in 2011 who is now retired.

ANA President and CEO Shinichiro Ito holds a ceremonial key gifted to the airline during an event to celebrate the first 787 Dreamliner delivery on Sept. 26, 2011.

To mark the occasion, Boeing leaders handed over a ceremonial key to the new jet to then-ANA President and CEO Shinichiro Ito.

What that key unlocked for the 787 15 years later was far more than symbolic:

More than 1,300 787 airplanes delivered to the global fleet, the fastest of any widebody program in history.
More than 550 new nonstop routes have been opened between city pairs that were never previously served.
More than 1 billion passengers have been carried to more than 85 countries.

Entry into service: The jet’s takeoff to Tokyo was just the beginning as the airplane prepared to enter service a month later, on Oct. 26, 2011opens in a new tab.

“The real test is when you put it into service with our customers, how it performs,” said Mike Fleming, vice president of 787 customer services and support in 2011 and now senior vice president of Commercial Airplane Programs and Customer Support.

Early in service, the program fell short on some promises: deliveries were late and initial reliability did not meet customer expectations. Fleming said the team focused on recovery and delivered reliability improvements.

In the decade and a half since that first delivery, Fleming believes the 787’s performance has proven its value, giving airlines the ability to launch new routes, serve short-haul markets and fly long-haul missions.

“The 787 has become the workhorse for many of our customers’ fleets,” Fleming said. “It’s certainly one of the most versatile widebodies we’ve ever produced.”

A legacy that remains personal: For many, the 787’s lasting impact is rooted in the people who brought the Dreamliner to life in 2011 and those who continue to build on that work every day.

“That first delivery represented the cumulative work of a lot of people,” Fleming said. “It was all of our partners and suppliers that worked closely with us, our customers who worked closely with us to shape the airplane so that it had the features that delivered the performance that they were anticipating in the market.”
“Now I go to the airports and see all the 787s, I just kind of sit there and look around and go, ‘Look what we did,’” said Mike Carriker, the 787 chief pilot in 2011, who has since retired. “Fifteen years from now, I hope they’re saying, ‘Damn, that’s a great jet.’”

For others, the 787’s legacy is a story that’s still being written with the same sense of momentum that has always defined the 787: continuous progress, evolving capability and a family of airplanes with a long runway ahead of it.

“15 years ago, we never would have imagined that we’d be at 1,300 airplanes by this period of time. But the airplane family does so well. I could see it being another several thousand airplanes and then we’ll improve it,” Sinnett said. “We’ll continue to make changes to the airplane. We’ll look at other versions of the airplane. I mean, there’s a lot ahead for this airplane family.”

By Kaitlin Stansell

SAS and Lykke Coffee Farms team up to raise the bar for coffee in the air

Leave a reply

SAS is partnering with Scandinavian coffee company Lykke Coffee Farms to introduce a new coffee experience across its network, bringing better coffee and a distinctly Scandinavian touch to the journey.

For 80 years, SAS has been serving travelers across Scandinavia and connecting the region with the world. From February 2027, passengers will be served coffee developed specifically for the experience of enjoying coffee at 35.000 feet, as SAS and Lykke Coffee Farms join forces to make an everyday part of the journey even better.

The partnership brings together two Scandinavian companies with a shared belief that quality, responsibility and great experiences should go hand in hand. Coffee has long been part of Scandinavian culture – part of how people meet, work, travel and enjoy everyday moments.

“Coffee is such a natural part of Scandinavian life, and for us at Lykke, it’s an amazing opportunity to bring that culture on board SAS, to the staff in the air and on the ground, and to share our passion for how coffee should be produced. It’s also an opportunity to connect travelers with the people and places behind the coffee. And of course, it still has to taste fantastic at 35.000 feet,” says Johan Damgaard, CEO of Lykke Coffee Farms.

From farm to cup – and from aircraft to lounge

The company runs and owns coffee projects together with farmers who are also partners in Lykke, giving it control over how coffee is grown and produced and how the value of the business is shared. Lykke works directly with coffee producers and communities around the world, with the aim of creating better coffee.

For SAS, the collaboration is about improving one of the most familiar moments of a journey: being served a cup of coffee. The new coffee will be introduced across the SAS network from February 2027, with the full SAS and Lykke concept set to follow later in the year.

From then on, travelers will also be able to enjoy the new coffee in SAS lounges. Through selected offers and an extended partnership, SAS travelers will also be able to earn EuroBonus points through coffee-related purchases on the SAS Lykke platform.

The collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term Scandinavian partnership built around something simple: a really good cup of coffee, served wherever in the world you happen to be.

American Airlines reaffirms commitment to Feeding America as a Mission Partner during Hunger Action Month

Leave a reply

American Airlines has announced a renewed partnership with Feeding America^®, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization. As a Mission Partner, American will continue its commitment to helping end hunger, ensuring everyone across the country has access to the food they need to thrive.

Together, the organizations have expanded access to food and essential resources by supporting the Feeding America network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs, reaching millions of people facing hunger each year.

American also supports Feeding America through donated AAdvantage^® miles, helping network members travel to further their mission while serving communities experiencing food insecurity.

The work continued this September with Hunger Action Month^®, an annual national campaign that raises awareness of food insecurity and calls individuals, organizations and communities to take action to help end hunger in America.

American team members volunteer at last year’s Thanksgiving Mobile Market.

Later this year, American and Feeding America will continue their partnership with the seventh annual Thanksgiving Mobile Market, which brings together volunteers to help distribute food items across Dallas-Fort Worth ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

American team members volunteer at last year’s Thanksgiving Mobile Market.

This Hunger Action Month, AAdvantage^® members can support organizations like Feeding America by donating miles through the Miles for Social Good program.

Donating is simple. AAdvantage^® members can log in to their account, navigate to the Donate pageand select the number of AAdvantage^® miles they wish to contribute.^* Members can select as few as 1,000 miles to help support those who need it most.

Not an AAdvantage^® member? Joining is easy and free at aa.com/aadvantage.

*Minimum donation is 1,000 miles, except for members who have an available balance of less than 1,000 miles, who may donate their entire balance. Donations are not tax deductible. Processing can take up to 48 hours. American Airlines reserves the right to determine the final use of miles within the guidelines of the Miles for Social Good, Miles for Global Health and Well-Being, Miles for Heroes and Miles for Our Planet programs.

Investor Day Presentation: Alaska Air Group enters activation phase of Alaska Accelerate, building a more global, premium and diversified airline

Leave a reply

Alaska Air Group today announced the next phase of its Alaska Accelerate strategic plan during its 2026 Investor Day in Seattle, outlining how the combined airline is moving from integration to activation as it builds a more global, premium and diversified airline with stronger earnings power.

The strategy reflects a deliberate choice to evolve Alaska’s model for an industry increasingly defined by scale, relevance and loyalty – connecting guests to more places, delivering products and experiences that matter, and turning loyalty into a greater competitive advantage – while retaining Alaska’s historic strengths in safety, operational performance, care and financial discipline.

Alaska Accelerate is about shaping our future and doing it in a way that builds on Alaska and Hawaiian’s 90+ year legacies while setting a new standard for what air travel should be. The acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines did not create a new strategy – it accelerated one we had already built. The heavy lifting is behind us, the value creation is in front of us, and we are entering the phase where the investments we have made in premium products, global connectivity, loyalty, cargo and Hawaiʻi increasingly show up in our results.”

Ben Minicucci

CEO

Alaska Air Group

What we’ve delivered

When Alaska Air Group launched Alaska Accelerate in December 2024, the company set out to restore earnings power, strengthen its competitive position and deliver $1 billion in incremental profit by building a broader network, a stronger commercial platform, deeper customer engagement and a more diversified earnings base.

Since then, Alaska has:

Captured roughly two-thirds of the $1 billion incremental profit target and remains on track to achieve the full amount by 2027. The $1 billion of incremental profit is inclusive of $500 million of merger synergies from the combination of Alaska and Hawaiian.

Completed three of four major integration milestones, including a single loyalty program, a Single Operating Certificate and a single passenger service system. Joint collective bargaining with represented workgroups is under way.
Optimized the combined network and launched long-haul international service from Seattle: Started nonstop flights to London, Rome, Reykjavik, Tokyo and Seoul. Announced Paris and Athens starting in spring 2027 and expanding to at least 15 intercontinental destinations from Seattle by 2030.
Introduced Atmos Rewards, bringing the loyalty programs of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines together in one award-winning platform. Since launch, active membership has accelerated from about 3% annual growth from 2019 to 2024 to roughly 13% by 2027, more than four times the prior pace. We expect the program to generate nearly $4 billion in cash flow annually by 2030.
Introduced and expanded Huaka‘i by Hawaiian, a benefits program designed exclusively for Hawai‘i residents that further deepens loyalty engagement.
Placed the largest fleet order in its history, growing from 400+ aircraft to 550 by 2035. Alaska has the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleet among the major carriers.
Expanded Alaska Airlines’ premium cabins, with nearly one-third of seats across the West Coast now in premium cabins.
Continued investing in the guest experience, including airport improvements, new lounges and free Starlink Wi-Fi sponsored by T-Mobile.
Increased revenue outside the main cabin by five points in two years, with a goal to grow that mix from 53% today to 60% over time through premium products, international growth, Atmos Rewards and cargo.

We know what a winning airline looks like, and we’ve been building towards it proactively. We have captured roughly two-thirds of our $1 billion earnings target, and the next phase is about activating the investments that make our business more durable.”

Shane Tackett

President and Chief Financial Officer

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Accelerate covers four areas:

Deliver a remarkable travel experience

Alaska Air Group is investing across the travel journey, from booking and the airport experience to lounges, cabins and loyalty, with a focus on the longer-haul markets where guests place the greatest value on comfort, privacy, space and service. By 2030, we expect premium revenues to exceed 40% of total revenue, up from 35% today.

Today, the company announced investments in the Alaska and Hawaiian guest experiences with the unveiling of Aurora and Leihōkū, the introduction of Premium Reserve, new Lounges and fleetwide upgrades, and the enhancement of Atmos Rewards.

We already have the scale and customer base – now we are making sure we have the right product for every trip our guests take. Aurora, Leihōkū and Premium Reserve close important product gaps across international, Hawaiʻi and premium transcontinental flying, giving us more ways to compete for high-value demand while preserving the distinct identity of the Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines brands.”

Andrew Harrison

Chief Commercial Officer

Alaska Airlines

Connect guests to the world

Alaska Air Group is using the strength of its number one West Coast franchise, including the Pacific Northwest, California and Hawaiʻi, to build Seattle into a true global gateway and create a more relevant network for guests, corporate customers and Atmos Rewards members.

Alaska serves 110 destinations from Seattle, nearly twice as many as the next-largest competitor.
The company serves seven intercontinental destinations today and expects to grow to 15 by 2030.
Long-haul flying across our network is expected to grow from about 8% of capacity today to approximately 15% by 2030.

Be Hawaiʻi’s trusted airline

The Hawaiian Airlines brand is the number one preferred brand to Hawaiʻi and the number one trusted airline brand in Hawaiʻi, while 70% of Hawaiʻi residents are now Huakaʻi by Hawaiian members.
Hawaiian Airlines joined the oneworld alliance, giving guests access to a global network of leading airline partners and strengthening Honolulu as an international hub.
We announced the fleet transition for Neighbor Island service, ensuring greater long-term reliability, more value for residents and a significantly improved customer experience while preserving local service.

Alaska Air Group is continuing its investment in Hawaiian Airlines and the communities it serves, with new milestones achieved in the Kahuʻewai Hawaiʻi Investment Plan. Hawaiʻi represents both a major visitor opportunity and an essential resident market: 9.6 million visitors travel to Hawaiʻi each year, 1.4 million residents depend on air travel for everyday life, and Hawaiʻi residents travel approximately 30% more than the U.S. average.

Diversify our future

Alaska Air Group is focused on increasing the share of revenue that comes from outside the main cabin; including more revenue from premium, international, loyalty and cargo. These are higher margin revenue streams that are less dependent on domestic fare levels, and more resilient through cycles. By 2030, the company expects diversified revenue to approach 60% of total revenues, up from our current mark of 53% as we continue to invest in the following areas:

We are bringing international premium economy cabins to our widebodies and we will take delivery of a new premium oriented 737-MAX narrowbody for transcontinental and other markets where there is strong demand fit.
We will continue to drive double digit annual growth in remuneration from Atmos Rewards.
We will more than double the size of our cargo business. Cargo revenue has grown approximately 60% since 2024, and the company sees a clear path to $750 million in cargo revenue by 2030, including opportunities in Hawaiʻi freighter flying, mail, international belly capacity and broader network connectivity.

Together, these investments advance Alaska Air Group’s plan to build a company with more ways to win: a more global network, a more complete premium proposition, deeper customer engagement, a stronger Hawaiʻi franchise, a larger cargo business and a more diversified revenue base designed to support durable earnings growth through the cycle.

More airline news:

Aeroplan Credit Cards to Include New Travel Benefits and 15% Savings on Air Canada Flight Rewards

Leave a reply

Air Canada announced:

Aeroplan, Canada’s leading loyalty program today announced a major refresh of its Canadian co-branded credit card portfolio with new benefits starting January 12, 2027, designed to elevate the travel journey. The upgrades build on Aeroplan’s category-leading offering, delivering savings to cardholders as they plan, book and enjoy travel.

More Ways to Save When You Travel

Aeroplan is introducing simple, easy-to-use new cardholder benefits across the travel journey:

15% Off Flight Rewards: Starting January 12, 2027, all primary Aeroplan Credit Cardholders will save 15% in points when they redeem for Air Canada flight rewards, helping points go further on every trip.
Air Canada Flight Benefits via AC Wallet: Premium Cardholders will get up to $100 annually toward Air Canada travel, with $50 available twice a year. Core Cardholders will get up to $50 annually toward Air Canada travel, with $25 available twice a year. The first benefit will be available on January 15, 2027.
A 4th Day Free on Car Rental Redemptions: Building on Aeroplan’s popular 4th Night Free hotel benefit, Aeroplan Credit Cardholders will also get a 4th Day Free when redeeming Aeroplan points for eligible car rentals, as an ongoing card benefit.
A 4th Night Free on Hotel Redemptions: Previously a limited-time promotion, this benefit will become an ongoing card benefit as of January 12, 2027, allowing Aeroplan Credit Cardholders to redeem points for a 4th Night Free on eligible hotel stays.
Existing Travel Benefits Continue: Cardholders will continue to enjoy the benefits already included with their eligible cards. All other existing card benefits remain unchanged, including free first checked bags and priority boarding for eligible cards.

New Benefits for Aeroplan Premium Credit Cardholders
Aeroplan Premium Credit Cardholders will enjoy a smooth and comfortable airport experience with new premium benefits, subject to standard access terms:

Elevated Airport Benefits: A benefit that previously applied only in North America will now extend access for Premium Cardholders, plus one travel companion, to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges worldwide. This is in addition to Air Canada Café access currently available at locations across Canada.
Priority Security Clearance: Premium Cardholders will now have access to dedicated Priority Security lanes at select airports worldwide for themselves and up to eight companions travelling on the same reservation.
Existing Exclusive Premium Benefits Continue: Premium Cardholders will continue to enjoy many of the benefits they love today, including Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding, Priority Baggage Handling, Priority Airport Standby, 10% Head Start, up to 25,000 Status Qualifying Credits, and more.

Aeroplan Credit Card Benefits for Every Stage of Travel

The Aeroplan Credit Card benefits members know and use today will continue, alongside new benefits across the travel journey. Additional information will be available soon through cardholders’ financial institutions. Aeroplan Credit Cardholders can also continue to earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases through Aeroplan’s extensive network of partners, including Starbucks, Uber, LCBO and more than 900 Avolta airport retail stores.

These portfolio-wide upgrades are part of Aeroplan’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional card benefits that support members throughout their travel journey.

For more details on the new Aeroplan Credit Card benefits, including eligibility requirements and applicable terms and conditions, please visit aircanada.com.

Aeroplan Celebrated at the 2026 Freddie Awards
This year marks Aeroplan’s fourth consecutive winning year at the Freddie Awards, the travel loyalty industry’s most respected honours, based on votes from more than 10 million loyalty members globally. Aeroplan is proud to be recognized for earning several top honours at this year’s Freddie Awards in the Americas region, including Program of the Year, Best Redemption Ability, and Best Promotion for its Accelerate Your Way to Status campaign.

About Aeroplan
Air Canada’s Aeroplan is Canada’s leading travel loyalty program, with more than 10 million active members worldwide. Aeroplan Members can earn or redeem points with over 50 airlines to 1,300+ destinations globally, without blackouts or surcharges. Redeem for one-way short-haul flights starting at 6,000 points, Air Canada Vacations packages, and 9,000+ hotel partner properties, or shop brands like Amazon, Apple, and Dyson via the Aeroplan eStore, with redemptions starting at 3,500 points. To join Aeroplan and start turning daily purchases into points for flights, hotel stays, gifts and more, visit aircanada.com/aeroplan.

Emirates invites travellers to discover Dubai this winter

Leave a reply

Emirates announced:

As Dubai gears up for a busy winter season, Emirates is inviting travellers from across its global network to experience the city, with care, comfort, and exclusive value at every step. Timed with Dubai’s packed winter season of festivals and world-class events, Emirates’ multi-market campaign is giving travellers even more reasons to explore the city.

Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates said: “Dubai offers an extraordinary range of experiences across leisure, dining, shopping and entertainment for every budget, age and taste. We’re pleased to help our customers make the most of it when they come to Dubai, with complimentary excursions and a curated set of offers designed to add value throughout their stay, alongside the flexibility and peace of mind when they plan their journey.”

Complimentary passes to top attractions

Travellers booking a return trip to Dubai with Emirates will receive a bundle of complimentary passes, worth AED 535, to three of the city’s favourite attractions. They can enjoy the slides at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, come face to face with sharks and rays at Lost World Aquarium, and hop on and off the Dubai City Sightseeing bus to take in landmarks from the Burj Khalifa to the historic Al Fahidi district, at their own pace.

My Emirates Pass – the key to a world of offers

Whether visiting Dubai for a short city break or for an extended holiday, Emirates promises even more value with its My Emirates Pass offer, where customers can unlock valuable discounts at hundreds of stores, venues, spas, restaurants and more by simply presenting their Emirates boarding pass at participating outlets. Using My Emirates Pass is as easy as presenting a physical or digital boarding pass along with a valid ID at participating venues and customers can enjoy discounts and benefits available all year round across the UAE, in addition to seasonal offers for greater value during select periods.

Hotel stays, excursions, personalised itineraries and more from Dubai Experience

Visitors can experience the best of Dubai at preferential rates with Dubai Experience, a one-stop shop to book featured hotels, dining experiences, thrilling attractions and activities in addition to tours. Customers can simply build a personalised itinerary with hundreds of activities to choose from provided by a host of tour operators, in a range of budgets to suit all.

Comprehensive cover

Emirates’ care goes well beyond the flight itself. Plans can change, so customers travelling to Dubai also benefit from unlimited free date changes across all cabin classes, the option to hold a fare free of charge for 24 hours, and reduced refund fees.*

For extra reassurance, customers can add Emirates’ Comprehensive Travel Cover when booking on emirates.com or later through Manage Your Booking. Available in 27 countries, it includes unlimited worldwide medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and cover for trip cancellation and baggage delay or loss. It also provides conflict cover, with medical expenses reimbursed up to US$25,000 and a free trip extension of up to 30 days, and it isn’t restricted by government travel advice.

The offer is valid across all cabin classes on eligible return tickets to Dubai purchased between 21 September and 11 October 2026, for travel between 24 September and 13 December 2026.**. For more details, visit special offers page.

Skywards – the loyalty programme that delivers

On Emirates’ flights, all Skywards members can enjoy free Wi-Fi on flights. Once in Dubai, Skywards members have endless opportunities to earn and redeem Skywards Miles while enjoying shopping and experiences.

At Dubai International airport, customers can redeem Miles at participating outlets at Dubai Duty Free, the Emirates Official Store and marhaba Airport Meet & Greet services. By signing up to Skywards Everyday, members will be able to instantly convert Skywards Miles into cashback at hundreds of participating retail, dining, ride services and more across the UAE.

A visit to Dubai would not be complete without a visit to Dubai Mall, and customers can earn Miles on their spends at all the mall’s outlets. Members can also spend their Skywards Miles through Skywards Miles Mall to purchase digital gift cards from a wide range of participating brands, including Amazon AE, Deliveroo, Shukran, Apple, NIKE, and more.

*Fare differences may still apply.

**Terms and conditions apply. Exclusions on points of origin apply and tickets must be purchased during the sale period to be eligible for the offer. Full terms and conditions can be found here

New American Airlines app feature monitors seat availability based on customers’ preferences

Leave a reply

Window, aisle or somewhere in between? American Airlines is making it easier for customers to find the perfect seat. A new feature in the American app lets eligible AAdvantage^® members select the seat characteristics they want upon completing their booking. The feature then automatically moves them when a matching seat becomes available. Instead of checking the seat map multiple times before a trip, AAdvantage^® members can choose preferences such as a window, aisle or middle seat and let the app do the work. If an eligible seat matching those preferences becomes available, the app automatically updates the reservation and notifies the customer.

“At American, we’re always looking for ways to make travel easier and more personalized for our customers,” said American’s Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden. “This latest innovation proactively addresses customer preference. It is a simple experience that gives customers more control while asking them to do less.”

The seat monitoring feature is available up to 24 hours before departure for AAdvantage^® members traveling on single-passenger reservations with an assigned seat. AAdvantage^® members can opt in and tailor choices upon completing their booking.

Seat changes are limited to eligible seats within the customer’s existing cabin and will not result in additional seat charges*. Customers set the preferences that guide the feature and control changes to their seat.

This latest enhancement is another step in American’s shift to digital experiences that make a customer’s travel journey easier and more seamless. By reducing routine monitoring and simplifying a common travel decision, the airline’s newest feature helps customers spend less time managing trip details and more time focused on the journey.

Built by emerging technology talent around a real customer need

This new enhancement grew from American’s ADEPT program, a two-year guided development initiative designed to recruit and develop early-career technology talent. ADEPT combines hands-on agile delivery experience with business acumen learning so that participants not only develop technology solutions but also improve business workflows across the airline.

The work began with a straightforward customer problem: finding a seat that matches their preferences often meant returning to the seat map again and again. The ADEPT and Customer Experience teams translated that friction into a digital experience that monitors seat availability, evaluates a customer’s stated preferences and applies eligibility requirements behind the scenes. The result is a simplified experience for the customer powered by technology that monitors seat availability, applies preferences and manages eligibility behind the scenes.

“This latest technology launch shows what can happen when we give talented technologists a meaningful customer problem and the space to solve it,” said American’s Chief Digital and Information Officer Ganesh Jayaram. “The ADEPT team paired fresh thinking with the scale and experience of teams across American to build something practical: technology that removes work from the customer and makes the travel experience feel more seamless. The project also reflects how we’re using AI to help our teams work smarter, accelerating development and allowing technologists to spend more time focused on innovation and delivering value for customers.”

This project reflects how American is developing technology talent while building a repeatable pipeline for customer-focused innovation. Rather than starting with a technology and searching for a use, the team started with a known point of friction and designed the capability around the outcome that mattered most: making travel easier for the customer. The ADEPT team used AI-enabled tools to streamline parts of the design and development process, helping them move from concept to delivery more efficiently while keeping the focus on solving a real customer need.

*There are no additional charges for seat changes on single PNRs but American will not move customers into a higher priced paid seat, even if one comes available within their criteria, to avoid additional charges.

See more ways American is elevating the customer experience through technology:

Giant Pandas Ping Ping and Fu Shuang Arrive in Atlanta on the FedEx Panda Express

Leave a reply

The latest “Panda Express”:

FedEx Corporation on September 27, 2026 transported two giant pandas, six-year-old male Ping Ping and five-year-old female Fu Shuang, from Chengdu, China to Atlanta, Ga. Working with Zoo Atlanta, the pandas traveled aboard a FedEx Boeing 777F, known as the “FedEx Panda Express.”

For decades, FedEx has worked with the Chinese government and zoos worldwide to provide safe, specialized transportation for giant pandas. FedEx is proud to donate the full transportation cost of this move as part of its ongoing corporate social responsibility and environmental conservation efforts. The company is committed to keeping supply chains moving and connecting communities around the world by enabling global trade.

Throughout their non-stop flight from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang traveled in custom-built travel crates under the care of Zoo Atlanta animal specialists. The pandas were the sole cargo aboard the aircraft, accompanied only by fresh bamboo, water, and an assortment of their favorite treats.

“We have had the privilege of transporting giant pandas for more than two decades, and every time the FedEx Panda Express is called into service, our entire team feels the significance of the mission,” said Richard W. Smith, chief operating officer, International, and chief executive officer, Airline, FedEx. “Safely delivering Ping Ping and Fu Shuang to their new home in Atlanta underscores our long-standing commitment to global conservation and our network’s ability to securely transport high-priority, precious cargo.”

Before their trip, the bears spent time getting accustomed to their enclosures to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Following their arrival at Zoo Atlanta, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang have begun their quarantine ahead of their public debut later this year.

FedEx also provided trucking and logistical support in Atlanta to safely transport the pandas from the airport to Zoo Atlanta. Including this move, FedEx has had the privilege of transporting 23 pandas to and from China since 2000.

Latest airline news:

Connecting Alaska: Why Aleutian Airways Chose the ATR

Leave a reply

ATR announced:

Alaska presents some of the most demanding conditions for regional air transport anywhere in the world. Established in 2022, Aleutian Airways today has a fleet of five SAAB 2000s, one ATR 42-600 and one ATR 72-600. As the airline prepares for its next phase of growth, CEO Wayne Heller explains why they selected the ATR as part of a long-term fleet strategy.

Regional aviation as critical infrastructure

Alaska is unlike any other aviation market in North America.

The state’s communities are spread across an area larger than France, Germany, Spain and Italy combined. Many are separated by mountain ranges, rugged coastlines and vast stretches of sparsely populated terrain. In numerous locations, road links are limited or non-existent, making air transport the most practical way to access healthcare, education, employment opportunities, government services and commercial centres. Serving these communities requires a careful balance of reliability, operational flexibility and cost efficiency.

Wayne Heller puts it simply: “Aleutian Airways exists to connect some of the most remote and underserved communities in North America. Operating in Alaska means aviation isn’t simply a mode of transportation, it’s critical infrastructure. Every day we’re moving people to jobs, medical appointments, schools, family events, and business opportunities. At the same time, we’re supporting industries that are essential to Alaska’s economy, including fishing, tourism, government services, and resource development.”

Finding the right aircraft for a unique market

Against this backdrop, fleet decisions take on particular importance.

Far beyond distance, operating in Alaska means that airlines must contend with changing weather conditions, seasonal demand fluctuations and airports with varying infrastructure constraints. Fleet decisions therefore depend on finding the right combination of aircraft performance, operating economics and reliability.

“We look at several factors, but ultimately the aircraft has to fit Alaska’s operating environment.

First is performance. The aircraft must be capable of operating safely and effectively from the airports we serve, many of which present unique runway, weather, and terrain challenges.

Second is economics. We need an aircraft that delivers the right balance of capacity, operating cost, and reliability to support sustainable service in smaller markets.

Third is guest experience. Passengers expect comfort, dependability, and a product that reflects modern aviation.

Finally, we look closely at manufacturer support. Strong technical support, parts availability, and a long-term commitment to operators are critical when you’re flying in some of the most demanding environments on earth.”

Why the ATR stood out

As Aleutian Airways evaluated its long-term fleet strategy, the airline was looking for an aircraft that could strengthen existing operations while creating room for future growth.

“The ATR-600 represents a unique combination of efficiency, capability, and versatility. As we evaluated our long-term fleet strategy, we saw an aircraft that could allow us to serve existing markets more efficiently while also opening opportunities for future network expansion.”

For Aleutian Airways, the attraction was not a single feature but the overall fit between the aircraft and the realities of regional aviation in Alaska.

“The ATR offers the seat capacity we’re looking for, excellent economics on regional sectors, and a platform with a strong global track record.”

“We’re also attracted to the ATR’s passenger capacity and modern flight deck. These features help support both operational efficiency and a positive guest experience. Ultimately, an aircraft has to prove itself in Alaska, but the ATR incorporates several characteristics that align well with what we look for in this market.”

Just as importantly, the airline found a manufacturer willing to engage with the specific challenges of the Alaskan market rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

“ATR demonstrated a willingness to work closely with us to better understand Alaska’s operational requirements.”

That dialogue reinforced Aleutian Airways’ confidence that the aircraft could support both its operational needs and longer-term ambitions.

“We’re focused on sustainable growth, and the ATR appears to provide a solution that aligns with both our operational and business objectives.”

And growth, for Aleutian Airways and the communities they serve, is not simply about adding routes. It is about ensuring that connectivity can be maintained sustainably over time. In that context, the ATR became a new tool to help the airline adapt capacity to demand, evaluate new opportunities and continue serving communities across Alaska.

Adapting capacity to demand, creating new opportunities

For a regional airline, the challenge is often finding the right aircraft size.

Some markets generate more demand than smaller aircraft can accommodate, while larger regional jets may be difficult to justify economically throughout the year.

“The ATR helps bridge that gap by providing meaningful passenger capacity while maintaining the economics required to serve smaller markets.”

“The ATR’s economics may allow us to evaluate opportunities that previously didn’t fit our business model. Each route is different, but having a highly efficient regional aircraft expands the range of possibilities we can consider.”

The ATR’s combination of capacity, efficiency and versatility also played a significant role in the airline’s broader fleet strategy, broadening the airline’s options.

“The Saab 2000 has been a great aircraft for us. It’s fast and exceptionally well-suited for many communities we serve down the Aleutian chain. The ATR is not a replacement for the Saab. Rather, it complements the fleet by providing additional flexibility. Having two aircraft types that excel in different mission profiles allows us to better match capacity and operating economics with market demand. The ATR gives us another option as we continue evaluating network opportunities and long-term fleet development. Together, they create a broader set of tools for serving Alaska efficiently.”

Investing for the long term

For Aleutian Airways, the ATR is ultimately part of a broader commitment to sustainable connectivity across Alaska. Asked about the challenges that come with leading an airline serving some of North America’s most remote communities, Heller returns to a single priority: ensuring Aleutian Airways is built for the long term.

SAS provides a first look at its new Copenhagen Airport lounge

Leave a reply

SAS will open the doors to a new signature lounge at Copenhagen Airport in June, 2027, offering more space, greater flexibility and a new Exclusive Zone created specifically for its most loyal top-tier customers.

Located on the fourth floor of Terminal 3, the new lounge offers panoramic runway views and dedicated spaces for working, relaxing, sleeping, eating and socializing.

A key new feature is a dedicated area tailored specifically for SAS’ most loyal top-tier customers. It forms part of the lounge’s zoning and gives the airline’s highest-tier frequent flyers a more private and elevated lounge experience.

A lounge designed around the traveler

The new lounge will provide around 40% more space than the current lounge, with areas designed to meet different needs throughout the journey. Travelers will be able to find a quiet place to focus, settle in for some food and drinks, relax between flights or simply enjoy the view of the runway. For those looking to rest between flights, the lounge will also include private hotel rooms.

The lounge will feature 24 private work pods, as well as dedicated family and social areas. Digital occupancy monitoring will help manage customer flow and make it easier to accommodate high visitor numbers while maintaining a comfortable environment.

Food and beverage will be an important part of the experience, with a dedicated bar serving drinks and signature SAS cocktails, barista-brewed coffee and a bakery offering freshly baked pastries, treats and quality snacks. The food offering will combine Scandinavian touches with international influences and will be adapted throughout the day.

Extending the experience beyond the lounge

The new signature lounge is part of SAS’ continued development of the travel experience in Copenhagen. It follows the re-introduction of European business class and upgrades to partner lounges across Europe, bringing together several elements of the airport experience for business travelers and frequent flyers.

The lounge combines Scandinavian design with natural materials and practical comfort. Its single-floor layout creates clearly defined areas while allowing travelers to move easily between different parts of the lounge.

Facts about the new SAS Flagship Lounge

Opening: June, 2027
Location: Terminal 3, Copenhagen Airport, Fourth floor
Size: 3.700 square meters
Capacity: Up to 4.000 visitors per day
Seating: 1.095 seats, including options designated for rest
More space: Around 40% more space for relaxing, working and socializing
Exclusive Zone: Dedicated area for SAS’ most loyal top-tier customers
Views: Panoramic runway views
Work: 24 private work pods
Layout: Single-floor solution with purposeful zoning
Zones: Eat & Drink, Social, Family, Focus, Relax, Silent Relax and Sleep
Food & beverage: Dedicated bar, barista service and bakery with freshly baked pastries, treats and quality snacks
Facilities: Expanded shower and restroom capacity, hotel rooms, abundant natural light and a high ceiling
Technology: Digital occupancy monitoring to help manage customer flow
Design: Scandinavian-inspired design with natural materials and a focus on longevity and conscious material use
Sustainability: Recycled SAS textiles and selected furniture from the former SAS Lounge Copenhagen will be reused in the new lounge