Emirates resumes flights to Newcastle and boosts services across Europe

Emirates has made this announcement:

Emirates is scaling up services with additional route resumptions and more flights across its European network, responding to the easing of international entry protocols and an upsurge in passenger demand. With clear signals that passenger confidence for international travel is returning, the airline is advancing its plans to increase services and capacity to make it easier for its customers to connect to and from its extensive European network via Dubai.

Further expansion in UK with Newcastle service restart

In the UK, Emirates continues to boost its operations and will reinstate flights to Newcastle Airport (NCL) from October 15, 2021, offering four weekly flights to the northeast of England, all operated by the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in a two class configuration. The first flight, EK033, will depart Dubai International (DXB) at 1430hrs and arrive in Newcastle (NCL) at 1910hrs, while flight EK034 will depart Newcastle at 2110hrs and arrive in Dubai the following day at 0725hrs.

By the end of October, the airline will offer 77 weekly flights to the UK as it gradually recovers operations in one of its most important global markets. UK weekly operations include a six times daily London Heathrow operation with five A380 services; double daily A380 flights to Manchester, 10 weekly services to Birmingham, daily services to Glasgow and four weekly services to Newcastle. Earlier this month, UAE moved onto the UK’s ‘amber’ list for travel, and travelers arriving in the UK from Dubai no longer need to quarantine in a government-approved hotel.

Increased frequencies to multiple European cities

Responding to a rise in customer demand, Emirates has also brought forward its plans to introduce extra flights and capacity to over 10 European cities, including Birmingham, Barcelona, Brussels, Dublin, Hamburg, London, Lisbon, Madrid, Munich, Rome and Zurich. Many of these cities will be served with daily flights or more.

In Germany, Emirates will make it easier for business and leisure customers to connect to its popular gateways by expanding frequencies to daily flights in Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Munich, with a total of 50 flights a week by October 31, 2021. Flights between Dusseldorf and Dubai, as well as between Hamburg and Dubai, will also be upgraded to the Emirates A380 to offer more capacity between both cities.

Beyond Europe

Emirates has also announced route restarts in other parts of its global network, including the resumption of flights between Male and Colombo from 1 September, which will further support Maldives’ tourism industry, and Sri Lanka as it opens up for tourism. By mid-October, Emirates will also increase its service between Male and Dubai to four daily flights. Other routes that will see increased frequencies include Muscat with four weekly flights from August 28 and Sao Paulo, which will have daily flights from October 5.

As international borders reopen and travel restrictions ease, Emirates continues to expand its network safely and sustainably. The airline has resumed passenger services to over 120 destinations and has recovered close to 90% of its pre-pandemic network. Emirates customers can enjoy convenient and seamless connections to the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East, and Asia Pacific via Dubai.

Delta people prepare for evacuees from Afghanistan

Delta Air Lines made this announcement:

Delta’s finest are converging on Dulles International Airport as the first waves of evacuees from Afghanistan begin to arrive on Delta jets.

The teams continued work Monday that began over the weekend, continuing to prepare for the arrival of thousands of passengers.

After getting reports from inbound flights that passengers had several basic needs, three Delta people decided to act.

Kendall Antoine, Quentin Harris and George Taylor piled into a Delta van and made a bee line for a local store to pick up diapers, formula, baby snacks and personal hygiene products. All in addition to the catering and supplies already planned for the flights.

Delta employees gather supplies for incoming evacuees from Afghanistan.

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“This is what we do,” Harris said. “We serve.”

Delta Air Lines signs transformative agreement with Travelport

Delta Air Lines and Travelport have announced a transformative global distribution agreement, designed to further enhance value-generation for the entire travel retailing ecosystem, including travel management companies, agencies, corporations and travelers.

The customer experience and value-based, multi-year content distribution agreement gives Travelport-connected travel buyers simplified access to Delta’s enriched content through the Travelport+ platform with enhanced retailing capability to better understand, compare and customize offers for travelers.

Travelport continues to evolve its worldwide retailing platform, Travelport+, with the next generation retailing tools and merchandising capabilities that provide long term value to the travel agency channel. An intelligent, multi-product display gives Travelport-connected buyers the ability to easily access the wide array of available products from all of Travelport’s global air partners, compare those to find the best options, and select the right choice for their customers.

Delta’s omni-channel, customer-centric approach invests across all channels to provide consumers with an elevated shopping experience within their preferred channel. This emerging approach to retail transformation will create value for all stakeholders in the ecosystem by enhancing traveler experiences and expanding customer choice.

Emerald Airlines to lease six ATR 72-600s from Chorus Aviation

Chorus Aviation has made this announcement:

Chorus Aviation Inc. has announced that Chorus Aviation Capital (‘CAC’) has executed agreements to lease six ATR 72-600 aircraft to Emerald Airlines of Dublin, Ireland.

CAC expects to deliver the first of these aircraft in August 2021, with the remaining units following in the next twelve months.

Meanwhile Emerald Airlines made this announcement:

Emerald Airlines, Ireland’s newest regional airline today announced an agreement with Chorus Aviation Capital (CAC), for the delivery of six ATR72-600 aircraft. The first aircraft will join the airline later this month, with the remaining aircraft expected for delivery over the next 12 months.

The ATR72-600 is the latest generation of turboprop aircraft combining environmental and economic performance, offering greater comfort and a unique passenger experience. The new aircraft will be configured with 72 new-generation seats with a 31-inch seat pitch and fitted with the latest Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M engines.

The ATR72-600 aircraft has a significant environmental advantage over regional jets and other turboprop aircraft emitting 40% less CO2 on short, regional flights.

The new franchise agreement between Aer Lingus and Emerald Airlines will support Aer Lingus’s Dublin Hub strategy by providing connectivity from UK provincial airports to North America via Dublin. The agreement will offer connectivity between the island of Ireland and Regional Airports in UK, and beyond. Under the agreement, Emerald Airlines will operate ATR turboprop aircraft on the Aer Lingus regional routes with associated Aer Lingus branding and livery.

Blue Air announces four new routes from Milan Linate

Blue Air has announced four new routes from Milan Linate to Madrid, Prague, Palermo and Lamezia Terme, starting on September 20, 2021.

Air Canada to resume Toronto – Munich flights

Air Canada made this announcement:

Following the Government of Canada’s announcement to reopen international borders on September 7, 2021 Air Canada is pleased today to unveil additional details of its planned Munich (MUC) – Toronto (YYZ) schedule.

The loosening of restrictions enables foreign nationals who have been fully vaccinated with the Government of Canada-accepted vaccines (Moderna, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and J&J) at least 14 days prior and who meet specific entry requirements to enter Canada for non-essential travel. See the Government of Canada’s full list of requirements for travelers entering Canada.

Air Canada is offering up to three flights per week on a 298-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner featuring a choice of three cabins of service: Air Canada Signature Class, Premium Economy and Economy class.

Photo: Buzz by Ryanair (2nd) Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 (200) SP-RZC (msn 62315) BFI (Nick Dean). Image: 954784.

https://airlinersgallery.smugmug.com/Hot-New-Photos/Hot-New/i-n7SzFdP/A

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WestJet restores the Calgary – Orange County route

WestJet today announced it is growing its California network. The airline is reintroducing nonstop service between Orange County/Anaheim and Calgary, initially operating twice weekly, beginning November 4, 2021, and quickly transitioning to three times weekly on December 7, 2021. Additionally, the airline moves from summer flights to providing year-round service between Calgary and San Francisco, operating twice weekly, beginning October 31, 2021.

Details of WestJet’s new service between Calgary and Orange County/Anaheim:

Route	Frequency	Start date
Calgary – Orange County/Anaheim	2x weekly	November 4, 2021
	3x weekly	December 7, 2021
Orange County/Anaheim – Calgary	2x weekly	November 4, 2021
	3x weekly	December 7, 2021

Details of WestJet’s new service between Calgary and San Francisco:

Route	Frequency	Start date
Calgary – San Francisco	2x weekly	October 31, 2021
San Francisco – Calgary	2x weekly	October 31, 2021

Samoa Airways’ cancelled MAX 9 is going to Alaska Airlines

Samoa Airways and Air Lease Corporation (ALC) previously signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Apia, for the lease placement of one new Boeing 737-9 MAX 9 aircraft.

The aircraft was scheduled for delivery in late March 2019 as DQ-TFL and was due to replace its existing 737-800.

The lease was cancelled as a result of the March 2019 worldwide Boeing 737 MAX groundings.

Above Copyright Photo: Joe G. Walker. The MAX 9, msn 43339, ln: 7163 will now be going to Alaska Airlines. Aircraft has a “Boeing Capital” registration of N235BE and rudder is now in partial AS colors.

Top Copyright Photo: DQ-TFL was previously painted in the full Samoa Airways livery before the lease was cancelled. Samoa Airways Boeing 737-9 MAX 9 DQ-TFL (msn 43339) BFI (Joe G. Walker). Image: 945938.

Air France unveils its new lounge designed by Jouin Manku in terminal 2F at Paris-Charles de Gaulle

Air France unveils its new lounge designed by Jouin Manku in terminal 2F at Paris-Charles de Gaulle

Air France made this announcement:

On August 19, 2021, Air France unveiled its brand new iconic lounge located in terminal 2F at Paris-Charles de Gaulle. An invitation to celebrate the best of French-style travel, upon arrival at the airport or during transit.

Dedicated to Business customers and Flying Blue Elite Plus members traveling on Air France’s short- and medium-haul Schengen network, this lounge is one of the airline’s largest, with a surface area of 3,000 sq. m. and 570 seats spread over two levels.

In collaboration with teams from Air France and the Group ADP, the entire space and most of the furniture were designed by the Jouin Manku agency, founded by Canadian architect Sanjit Manku and French designer Patrick Jouin. The idea of levitation and grace guided the creative duo, to offer the airline’s customers a real moment suspended in time and enjoy total relaxation before they board.

Following Charlotte Perriand, Andrée Putman and more recently Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance and Mathieu Lehanneur, Air France’s choice to associate itself with this prestigious designer once again illustrates its tradition of working with the best architects and designers of its time, to continue telling its legendary story.

A haven of peace and serenity at the heart of the airport, the lounge, with its curved features and relaxing vibe, is open, airy and uncomplicated at first glance. There is something for everyone, depending on the amount of time customers have before boarding, to rest, freshen up, work or enjoy something to eat and drink.

The materials used, including terrazzo, lava stone, wood, leather and other fabrics, have all been rigorously chosen to last over time. The furniture is solid and functional, designed to provide optimum comfort. The Air France signature colors – shades of blue, a strong presence of white and a hint of red – are highlighted, as well as the accent, the Air France brand symbol, and the winged seahorse, the company’s historical symbol, reminding us of its rich history.

Fluidity and connectivity on the ground floor

After crossing a walkway designed as a transitional entrance hall, the airline’s customers are welcomed by Air France teams at the entrance to the lounge. To ensure fluidity, kiosks allow passengers to scan their boarding pass and access the lounge directly. A left luggage area and a display cabinet offering Air France Shopping travel accessories are also available.

Customers then discover a giant sculpture linking the reception area and the lounge. This work of art, inspired by the wings of an aircraft, symbolizes flight, technology and the avant-garde. It reinforces the “cocoon” spirit that dominates the lounge.

At the heart of the lounge, a “runway view” is revealed. A huge curved window with a view of the sky and the airport runways, it dominates the entire space and lets in a northern light that illuminates the lounge, without dazzling the eye. At daybreak and at nightfall, the runway view subtly sparkles, offering warmth and comfort.

Wi-Fi is available free of charge and there are sockets for recharging mobile devices. A dedicated area for Flying Blue Ultimate customers, directly accessible from the reception area, offers a fully personalized service and has its own private lounges.

As for the catering offer, gourmet kiosks are located on each level. Tinted with a coppery champagne color, they promote the refinement and conviviality of French cuisine. The catering offer changes throughout the day. For a quick bite to eat, mini sandwiches, salads and hot quiches are available at all times. There is also a dedicated counter with pancakes in the morning, dishes of the day made by a chef at lunchtime, as well as an aperitif service. Cheeses and desserts complete this offer designed in the spirit of a French bistro. The wine list, chosen by Paolo Basso, world’s best sommelier in 2013, offers a wide selection of wines and champagnes. Finally, a vast “detox” area has a relaxing atmosphere and offers a wide range of herbal teas.

In an eco-responsible approach, Air France favors regional and seasonal products. In addition, to limit the use of single-use plastics, the airline provides its customers with water fountains throughout the lounge. It also pays particular attention to the selective sorting and recycling of all catering services.

At the heart of the lounge, a giant staircase welcomes guests and invites them to discover the upper floor and enjoy the runway view.

Upstairs, take time to recharge your batteries

Travelers with more time to spare will find relaxation areas upstairs. There is a dedicated area with large, comfortable loungers and subdued lighting to relax in a cozy atmosphere. Comfortable recliner seats also allow guests to enjoy the unique view of the runways in complete tranquillity.

A Clarins treatment area offers guests the opportunity to discover the new Traveller Spa concept. Express beauty or radiance treatments, 20-minute tailor-made facials are available to prepare for the flight. Finally, a wellness area with ten showers and a changing room is also available. An ideal way to recharge your batteries between two flights.

Air France Protect, the promise of a safe trip

As part of its “Air France Protect” program, the airline ensures the strictest health measures at every stage of the trip. It is compulsory to wear a surgical mask in the lounge. Hand sanitizer is also available throughout the lounge. Close to the self-service catering area, the serving utensils are changed regularly. Finally, as the press offer is limited, customers are invited to download the Air France Play app before their departure to enjoy a wide choice of newspapers and magazines.

Located between the two boarding areas at terminal 2F at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, this new Air France lounge is open from 5.30 am to 10 pm. Accessible free of charge for Business and Flying Blue Elite Plus customers, and for a fee of 35 euros for customers traveling in the Economy cabin, subject to availability in the lounge.