U.S. Department of Transportation tentatively grants United Airlines authority to operate new service to Tokyo Haneda

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United Airlines has made this announcement:

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced that United Airlines was tentatively granted a total of four daily nonstop flights to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND). The slots will be allocated for flights from United’s hubs at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Pending completion of an aviation agreement between the U.S. and Japanese governments later this year, the flights are expected to begin service by the summer of 2020.

“As the largest U.S. carrier to Asia, we are excited to see we were granted additional slots to Haneda to help more Americans travel between our nation and Japan’s capital city, which will offer our customers an unparalleled experience while maximizing choice,” said United Airlines President Scott Kirby. “We would like to thank the U.S. Department of Transportation for its work in reviewing our proposal and advocating for what is best for the American public and for our economy. We also recognize the efforts of the U.S. State Department’s work with the DOT to enable additional service at Haneda.”

Together, the flights from these U.S. mainland hub cities will connect Tokyo Haneda with:

The U.S.’s largest metropolitan area and center of finance and commerce, Newark/New York;
The most important logistics and transportation hub in the Midwest, Chicago;
The seat of the U.S. federal government, Washington, D.C.; and
Additional U.S. carrier service in the largest U.S. mainland – Tokyo market at Los Angeles.

This announcement will strengthen United’s broad-based and end-to-end network between the United States and Japan. United’s proposed flights to Haneda would allow U.S. consumers to make connections to 37 points in Japan via United’s joint venture partner All Nippon Airways (ANA), strengthening United’s existing comprehensive network. Throughout this proceeding United has been the only U.S. airline to recognize the unique benefits that Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita offer to the traveling public.

Only United has committed to providing service to both Tokyo airports from regions across the United States. United has proven its long-term commitment to Tokyo as a key gateway in Asia, serving Tokyo from all seven of its U.S. mainland hubs. United also serves 31 markets in the Asia/Pacific region, more than any other U.S. carrier, and has successfully launched 11 new nonstop flights from the U.S. mainland to destinations throughout the Asia/Pacific region since 2014.

Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner N13954 (msn 36405) AMS (Ton Jochems). Image: 946555.

United Airlines aircraft slide show (Boeing):

American Airlines welcomes tentative approval of additional service at Tokyo Haneda International Airport

American Airlines has made this announcement:

American Airlines welcomes the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) tentative approval of additional service at Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND). American was tentatively granted authority to operate a daily flight between HND and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and a second daily flight between HND and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

“We are encouraged by the DOT’s tentative decision and look forward to operating more flights into Tokyo Haneda and beyond with our joint business partner, Japan Airlines,” said American Airlines President Robert Isom. “We understand the unique opportunity we’ve been granted with new Haneda service from our largest hub at DFW and additional service from LAX, and will deliver a world-class customer experience when flights begin next year.”

A second daily LAX–HND flight will complement American’s existing LAX–HND service, which began in 2016. The new flight from DFW will provide Japanese customers convenient connections throughout American’s vast network with more than 900 daily flights to more than 200 destinations.

American’s new DFW–HND service would be operated with a Boeing 777-200, while its second LAX–HND service would be operated with a 787-8 (top).

The final decision from the DOT is expected in the next few weeks.

Top Copyright Photo: American Airlines Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner N816AA (msn 40634) PAE (Nick Dean). Image: 946295.

American Airlines aircraft slide show (Boeing):

DOT tentatively approves new Delta service between Tokyo Haneda and five U.S. cities

Delta Air Lines has made this announcement:

Delta would become the leading U.S. airline serving Tokyo’s preferred airport under a preliminary decision announced May 16 by the Department of Transportation, with new slot pairs for flights between Haneda Airport and Seattle, Detroit, Atlanta, Portland, Ore., and Honolulu.

Together with Delta’s existing service from Los Angeles and Minneapolis/St. Paul, these new routes will provide more convenient access for customers and better position the carrier to compete with other airline partnerships serving Tokyo’s preferred airport. The city’s other major airport, Narita, can increase travel time by up to two hours to downtown Tokyo compared to Haneda.

DOT’s tentative decision to award Delta five slot pairs is a major milestone for Delta that, once finalized, would increase traveler options and bring more competition to this critical market. It will better position Delta to compete with U.S. airlines that have previously been able to offer better access to Haneda through joint venture partnerships with Japanese airlines. It will also enhance the ability of Delta and its partner Korean Air to provide comprehensive service and connecting options across the region.

“This preliminary order demonstrates the DOT’s commitment to encouraging competition and providing more choice for customers traveling between the U.S. and Tokyo’s city center,” said Steve Sear, President – International and Executive Vice President – Global Sales. “This service will allow Delta to combine its superior service, product and operational reliability with the convenience of Tokyo-Haneda’s central location – an important win for customers.”

Pending final government approvals, the new routes would launch in the Summer 2020 flying season.

Delta and other airlines that have submitted proposals for additional Haneda service now have the opportunity to respond to DOT’s preliminary order. DOT will review airline responses and issue a final order awarding Haneda slots, expected in late summer 2019.

New routes to feature Delta’s award-winning reliability, product and service

Delta will operate the flights using the following aircraft types:

SEA-HND will be operated using Delta’s newest international widebody aircraft, the Airbus A330-900neo. Delta’s A330-900neo will feature all four branded seat products – Delta One suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin – giving customers more choice than ever.
DTW-HND will be operated using Delta’s flagship Airbus A350-900 aircraft, the launch fleet type for Delta’s award-winning Delta One suite, Delta Premium Select and Main Cabin.
ATL-HND will be flown using Delta’s refreshed Boeing 777-200ER, featuring Delta One suites, the new Delta Premium Select cabin and the widest Main Cabin seats of Delta’s international fleet.
PDX-HND will be flown using Delta’s Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which features 34 full flat-bed seats with direct-aisle access in Delta One, 32 in Delta Comfort+ and 168 in Main Cabin.
HNL-HND will be operated using Delta’s Boeing 767-300ER. This fleet type is currently being retrofitted with a new cabin interior and in-flight entertainment system.

Jetlines announces a definitive lease agreement with SmartLynx for two Airbus A320s for December launch

Jetlines has announced that it has entered into definitive lease agreement with its partner, SmartLynx Airlines SIA, for two Airbus A320s that will be available for delivery in fourth quarter 2019 in line with the expected commencement of Jetlines’ operations.

Jetlines has set a launch of commercial service targeted for December 17, 2019 using Vancouver (YVR) as Jetlines’ home airport.

Jetlines’ operations department intends to conduct a familiarization inspection of the aircraft in the next few months to ensure the aircraft are in compliance with the Transport Canada A320 Type Certificate, and identify any additional equipment required.

The aircraft are scheduled to be delivered by November 5, 2019 and as part of the AOC (Air Operator Certificate) process, they will be inspected by Transport Canada prior to launching operations.

CEO, Javier Suarez commented, “I am thrilled with the favourable lease rates offered by our partner Smartlynx. I’m also very pleased to share that the aircraft will be delivered in flight-ready condition with no reconfiguration needed; keeping our turnaround time and costs down. The aircraft will be Jetlines branded with the previously defined ultra-low cost 180 seats with an all economy configuration. We are working hard to have these two aircraft flying right before the busy holiday season in December 2019.”

Executive Chairman, Mark Morabito commented, “I want to again express my appreciation to our partners at SmartLynx for working with Jetlines to conclude these definitive lease agreements on favorable terms. Jetlines continues to work on concluding the final component of its financing plan so that it can begin airline operations in time for the holiday season.”

The two Airbus A320’s have virtually identical conformity in design, features, and equipment, allowing Jetlines to expedite the necessary training and maintenance processes. The two aircraft will be configured with 180 ultra-light ACRO seats, helping the airline save fuel while increasing its payload.

American Airlines brings the “Flagship Experience” to DFW

American Airlines has made this announcement:

More gates. More flights. And now, more ways to relax.

American Airlines took the next step in its unprecedented growth at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) today (May 16) with the grand opening of its newest Flagship Lounge, located in Terminal D. The luxury, on-the-ground experience is complemented by the airline’s best-in-class Flagship First Dining.

“It made sense for us to go all-in on the Flagship experience at our largest hub,” said Kurt Stache, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Loyalty and Sales for American. “More of American’s premium customers fly through DFW than anywhere else, and we think they’ll agree the Flagship experience is unlike any other.”

Flagship Lounge

Customers traveling in Flagship First and Flagship Business will have access to American’s Flagship Lounge to refresh, unwind or work before their flight with quiet spaces for taking a rest, lounge-style seating, luxury showers and ample wireless chargers. Flagship guests can choose from a robust variety of hot and cold entrees including Texas brisket in adobo sauce, Korean-style chicken wings and sushi. Also available to guests will be a rotating chef-action station with made-to-order omelets and Asian-style pancakes. Premium wine, Champagne and local craft beer are available to pair with any meal.

Flagship First Dining

Flagship First Dining is American’s high-end, sit-down dining experience located within the Flagship Lounge and is available exclusively for customers traveling in Flagship First. Guests will experience a complimentary, fine-dining restaurant experience with an array of appetizers, entrees and desserts. The DFW Flagship Dining menu features the flavors of Texas with double-smoked beef brisket, slow-braised pork shoulder and Texas pecan pie, as well as premium wines picked by master sommelier Desmond Echavarrie, Krug Champagne, signature cocktails and local craft beer.

American will also launch the plant-based Impossible Burger as an alternative to its signature Flagship Burger, providing even more food choices to its customers. The vegetarian option will be available at DFW first, and there are plans to expand it to additional Flagship First Dining locations later this year.

Admirals Club

American’s renovated Admirals Club lounge in Terminal D has also opened, providing customers with an updated modern look, more power outlets, access to showers and space to relax. Guests will have access to snacks such as hummus, veggies, soup and the signature make-your-own guacamole station, as well as complimentary beer, wine and spirits. The Admirals Club lounge will also feature local craft beers for sale from breweries in Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston.

This June, American will also launch an exclusive label from master sommelier Bobby Stuckey as its complimentary wine.

Building the most connected network

American’s lounge investments at DFW are in conjunction with its strategy to build the most connected network at its most profitable hub. The airline has been steadily adding service from DFW and, beginning in early June, will operate more than 900 daily flights from the hub, an increase of 100 flights per day from last summer. The new flights include service to 23 new markets, including Dublin (DUB); Munich (MUC); Kalispell, Montana (FCA); Harlingen, Texas (HRL); Monterey, California (MRY); and Augusta, Georgia (AGS); as well additional service to 84 existing markets such as Boston (BOS), Los Angeles (LAX) and New York (LGA).

Earlier this month, American opened 15 new gates in the Terminal E satellite, which supports more than 100 daily regional flights for American Eagle. In June, American will open six mainline gates in Terminal B to further position itself for this summer’s growth. When American opens its next DFW Admirals Club lounge in Terminal E later this summer, travelers will have access to a lounge within any of DFW’s five terminals.

In total, customers have access to 234 nonstop destinations from DFW and a network that enables over 9,000 one-stop connections through DFW — more than any other airline hub in the world.

Flagship coast to coast

These enhancements are just the latest in American’s more than $200 million investment in the luxury travel experience. The world’s largest airline recently opened Flagship Lounges at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LAX, Miami International Airport (MIA) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), with the exclusive Flagship First Dining experience available at JFK, LAX and MIA.

All photos by American Airlines.

Transat AT gives Air Canada 30 days of exclusive negotiations to acquire Air Transat

Transat AT Inc. has made this announcement:

Transat AT Inc. has announced that it has agreed to a 30-day period of exclusive negotiations with Air Canada pursuant to a letter of intent contemplating a transaction by which Air Canada would acquire all of the shares of Transat at a price of $13.00 per share.

During such exclusivity period, it is contemplated that Air Canada will complete its due diligence review and the parties will finalize the negotiation of a definitive agreement regarding this transaction, the material terms of which are announced today.

“This announcement is good news for Transat”, said Jean-Marc Eustache, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat. “This is an opportunity to team up with a great company that knows and understands our industry and has had undisputable success in the travel business. This represents the best prospect for not only maintaining, but growing over the long term the business and jobs that Transat has been developing in Quebec and elsewhere for more than 30 years.”

Transat would like to point out that its operations continue in the normal course and that there will be no change for its clients, suppliers and employees. In particular, travellers and clients of Transat can continue to travel and book their vacation packages with Transat like before.

Context of the Announcement

The Board of Directors of Transat has agreed to the exclusivity agreement based on a unanimous recommendation from a special committee of independent directors that was charged with examining any proposals for the acquisition of the shares of Transat, with the assistance of financial and legal advisors, and with considering all strategic options, as was announced on April 30, 2019. After being solicited by several parties and having considered available alternatives, the Board of Directors has determined that it is now in the interests of Transat and its stakeholders to finalize negotiations on an exclusive basis with Air Canada with a view to completing the transaction. In its recommendation, the special committee considered many factors, including the interests of the Corporation and its stakeholders, the economic and regulatory environment in which Transat operates, the proposed price of $13.00 per share, which represents a premium of 148.5% over the 20-day weighted average trading price prior to the announcement of April 30, 2019, a premium of 47.8% over the 20-day weighted average trading price for the period ended May 15, 2019, the terms of Air Canada’s proposal, which it deemed reasonable and acceptable taken as a whole, including the duration of the exclusivity period, the disclosure of the main terms of the letter of intent, the covenants of Air Canada and the contemplated terms of the definitive agreements.

Additional Terms of the Letter of Intent

The letter of intent sets forth certain terms that will be required in the definitive agreement. These terms include a break fee of $15 million payable by Transat in case of termination of the transaction, including upon acceptance of an unsolicited superior proposal, and a reverse break fee of a maximum of $40 million payable by Air Canada in the event that the agreement is terminated because regulatory or governmental approvals are not obtained. In addition, the non-solicitation provision will be subject to the usual withdrawal right based on fiduciary duties if an unsolicited proposal is made at a firm price per share that is at least $1.00 higher than the price offered by Air Canada, in the event such proposal is not matched by Air Canada. Moreover, the execution of a definitive agreement by Air Canada will be subject to the execution of support and voting agreements by certain large shareholders of Transat.

Finally, Transat has agreed to limit its undertakings and expenses relating to the implementation of its hotel strategy during the exclusivity period.

Any agreement will also contain numerous conditions customary for this type of transaction, including applicable regulatory approvals and the approval of the shareholders of Transat.

There is no assurance that a definitive agreement will be reached in relation to any transaction following the exclusivity period and the ongoing discussions. No assurance may be given that a transaction will occur in relation to the proposed transaction or otherwise, or regarding the definitive terms of such transaction, if any.

Top Copyright Photo: Air Transat’s first Airbus A321neo. Air Transat Airbus A321-271NX WL D-AZAJ (C-GOIE) (msn 8755) XFW (Gerd Beilfuss). Image: 946420.

Air Transat aircraft slide show:

Gulf Times: Qatar Airways to replace all Airbus A330s by 2022 and all A320s by 2024

CEO Al-Baker of Qatar Airways was interviewed by the Gulf Times on its fleet plans.

The carrier will replace its remaining Airbus A330-200s and A330-300s with new Airbus A350s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners over the next three years.

“From 2024, our fleet will consist of Boeing 777s and 787s and Airbus A350s and A321s. At that time, there will not be any more Airbus A320s and A319s in our fleet,” stated Al-Baker.

Read the full report: CLICK HERE

Top Copyright Photo: Qatar Airways Airbus A330-302 A7-AEI (msn 813) LHR (SPA). Image: 932957.

Qatar Airways aircraft slide show:

Delta to launch Los Angeles-Omaha service in November 2019

Delta Air Lines has made this announcement:

Beginning this fall, customers in Los Angeles and Omaha will have more travel options between the two cities as Delta launches new daily service from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (OMA) on Nov. 10.

The daily flight will operate on the following schedule:

Departs	Arrives
Los Angeles (LAX) at 5:40 p.m.	Omaha (OMA) at 10:55 p.m.
Omaha (OMA) at 7 a.m.*	Los Angeles (LAX) at 8:45 a.m.

*First flight departing OMA is on Nov. 11, 2019

The Los Angeles-Omaha flight will operate on Delta Connection carrier Compass Airlines using a 76-seat Embraer 175 aircraft with seating for 12 in First Class, 20 in Delta Comfort+ and 44 in Main Cabin.

The Los Angeles basin is among the most popular destinations from Omaha and strengthens Delta’s presence in the city. Delta has grown departures out of Omaha by more than 10 percent over the past year and will offer 22 peak-day flights in November to seven nonstop destinations. This includes a third daily flight to Delta’s New York-LaGuardia Airport hub, which launched on May 1.

Route Map:

Top Copyright Photo (all others by the airlines): Delta Connection-Compass Airlines Embraer ERJ 170-200LR (ERJ 175) N616CZ (msn 17000209) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 926247.

Delta Connection-Compass aircraft slide show:

In other news, Delta is celebrating 100 days of no cancellations.

Delta issued this statement:

When Delta says it’s cancelling cancellations – they mean it.

Delta is once again setting the bar for operational reliability, rocketing to 100 days without a mainline cancel¹year-to-date Friday, May 10, almost a month ahead of last year’s pace.

The cancel-free day count continued through the weekend with the airline now at 104 days for the mainline system¹, including both domestic and international operations, compared to 87 this time last year. Delta maintained Friday’s 99.84 percent completion factor ranking, or the measure of flights operated versus scheduled, through the weekend into Wednesday.

Year-to-date, the airline has also logged 57 cancel-free ‘brand days’ across both Delta mainline and Delta Connection operations² – 15 more than last year.

Delta’s latest operational accomplishment comes on the heels of the news that the airline is leading the industry for on-time arrivals during what has been the strongest first quarter since the merger for mainline and network performance.

Earlier this year, the airline earned the top spot in the latest 2018 Airline Quality Rating, was recognized by FlightGlobal as the most on-time airline and by The Wall Street Journal as the best airline of 2018, similarly to The Points Guy.

“Reaching this 100-day milestone so quickly is a true testament to the hard work of our people across the operation and their dedication to taking care of our customers,” said Dave Holtz, S.V.P. – Operations and Customer Center. “We keep climbing, improving year after year, because our customers count on us to connect them to moments that matter around the world every day.”

(1) Based on Delta’s internal statistical reporting of all Delta-operated mainline flights scheduled between Jan. 1, 2019 and May 14, 2019.

(2) Based on Delta’s internal statistical reporting of all Delta-operated mainline flights and Delta Connection system flights scheduled between Jan. 1, 2019 and May 14, 2019.