https://simpleflying.com The latest aviation news from around the world. Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:25 GMT en-US hourly 60 It seems that airports and airplanes are becoming THE place for making proposals, and surprisingly, most of them seem to get that all-important and very public Yes for an answer. The high-risk strategy has scored another bullseye recently, this time in the arrivals hall of Auckland Aiport, the international gateway to New Zealand.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/auckland-airport-successful-marriage-proposal/ From today, passengers traveling on around 70% of Virgin Australia flights will be able to track where their checked bags are via the airline's app. Virgin Australia describes the innovation as Australia's "first-ever airline baggage tracking tool," and its launch follows a successful pilot of the program in May this year.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-unveils-aussie-bag-tracking/ Earlier this month Fiji Airways greeted the arrival of its third Airbus A350 XWB, with the fourth soon to arrive in Nadi. The new aircraft is named the Island of Beqa and follows in the footsteps of the initial two A350s that joined Fiji Airways in 2019.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/fiji-airways-a350-business-class-very-high-bar/ Today, we will look at the various ways you can fly on a private jet, from the most expensive options to pretty reasonable ones. Long regarded as a form of travel that only celebrities and the very wealthy could afford, today, the idea of flying by private jet is within reach for most people.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-can-you-fly-on-a-private-jet/ Working on a private jet as a flight attendant is very different from the role of commercial cabin crew. Likewise, the schedule is very different as is the salary structure. Here we look in more detail at the difference.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:45:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/private-jet-flight-attendants-salary-guide/ Jet engines are complex machines that require immaculate servicing and periodic maintenance. An engine may be taken off the wing due to an operational failure or an in-flight incident. However, routine maintenance checks are often the primary reason for a maintenance visit. The incoming inspection generally reveals the extent of wear and damage to the engine during operation.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 23:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/atmospheric-aerosols-impact-on-engine-maintenance/ Airport slots often make the news for their multi-million dollar sale prices at congested airports. But what is a 'slot,' who decides when an airline can fly into a facility, and why can they be so valuable? Let's take a look.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 22:31:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airline-slot/ The world has just over three million non-stop scheduled flights in September. If that sounds a lot, it is because it is. However, they remain down by 6.1% versus September 2019, equivalent to more than 6,000 fewer services daily.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 20:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/middle-east-more-flights-september-than-2019/ Global luggage storage company Radical Storage has recently released its findings on which inflight airline snacks and meals are the least expensive on some of the world's most popular airlines. Radical Storage also worked with a nutritionist to determine which inflight food offerings were the healthiest and which you would probably want to avoid.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/cheapest-airline-catering-list/ Saudi Arabia's newest carrier, Riyadh Air, has outlined a rather interesting plan for how the airline will operate once it commences commercial flights in 2025. However, the plan appears to be deviating from the formula of success that was created by fellow Middle Eastern giants Emirates and Qatar Airways.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/difference-riyadh-air-neighbors/ While most airlines in the United States and Europe are privately owned, many of the world's largest global carriers are owned at least in part by their respective governments. These carriers often operate differently, as they attempt to fulfill governments' strategic initiatives rather than simply return the highest profits to their shareholders. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the ten largest airlines (by number of destinations served) that are fully or partially state-owned.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 15:54:32 GMT https://simpleflying.com/largest-state-owned-airlines-list/ Flying on a private jet offers many advantages and flexibilities. Passengers have a choice over flight times, routes, and airports used. It's not just schedules that are relaxed, though - softer areas like dress code, catering, and what to bring onboard are all flexible too.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 14:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/do-private-jets-have-dress-codes/ Hello and welcome to Simple Flying's final 'Sunday Reads' weekly digest for the month of August 2023. Let's end the month in style by taking a few minutes to look back at some of our most notable stories from the last seven days.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:29:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/sunday-reads-122/ On August 23rd, a Boeing 787 operated by LATAM had to divert and return to its origin airport after a fuel leak was suspected by the crew. The aircraft was flying from Santiago, Chile, to Auckland, New Zealand, when the incident occurred.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/latam-boeing-787-suspected-fuel-leak/ It is strange days indeed at New Zealand's gateway Auckland Airport (AKL). This week, the airport announced that compared to last financial year passenger numbers rose by 183%, revenue was up by 108%, reported profit after tax was down by 77%, and it would ignore its major airline customers and plow ahead with a multi-billion dollar terminal upgrade paid for by increased charges.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 08:15:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/auckland-airpor-airlines-offside-profit-plummets-charges-rise/ Australia has a population approaching 27 million, and between them, Qantas Loyalty and Virgin Velocity have 26.7 million members of their frequent flyer programs. Both airlines want more members, so it seems the best way to get them is to entice each other's members to jump ship; at least that's what Virgin Australia's Velocity Frequent Flyer program has in mind.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 05:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-velocity-luxury-escapes-qantas-gold/ Air travel often involves connecting flights, and connecting flights can add an extra layer of complexity to your journey. Properly planning a connecting itinerary can help ensure a seamless travel experience and minimize potential hiccups along the way. From transfer times to baggage choices, airport amenities to booking strategies, and even upgrade considerations, here are a few tips to make your connections as smooth as possible.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 02:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/connecting-itinerary-top-tips/ Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes flight G3 1312 had planned to operate an uneventual service from São Paulo–Congonhas Airport to Belo Horizonte on August 22nd; as the aircraft was accelerating down Congohas's runway 35L for take-off, the crew noted an engine stall, calling for an aborted takeoff.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 02:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/gol-boeing-737-max-rejects-takeoff-engine-problem/ Fly Angola has found itself treading in deep water, with flights suspended seemingly indefinitely from August 18th.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 01:20:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/fly-angola-suspends-domestic-flights-following-economic-constraints/ In the US, the first air display team dates back to 1927, when three pilots from the Army Air Corps formed the Three Musketeers. Unfortunately, within one year of commencing operations, all three of the original pilots had perished in air crashes.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 23:46:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/lesser-known-air-display-teams-list/ All Nippon, British Airways, Etihad, EVA Air, KLM, Saudia, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines use the 787-10, to be joined by Qantas in the future. These are the five longest routes in September.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 21:00:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/five-longest-boeing-787-10-routes-september-2023/ In the hip-hop universe, success frequently translates into a lifestyle of opulence, replete with wads of cash, luxury cars, sprawling estates, and exotic vacations. Some elite rappers take it to the next level, with their lavish existence extending to owning the ultimate status symbol: private jets.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 20:46:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/7-rappers-who-own-private-jets/ Collins Aerospace (Collins), a Raytheon Technologies (RTX) business, is unlocking new technologies to optimize engine operations to reduce carbon emissions in the environment and maintenance costs. The company is eyeing future aircraft that are more electrically powered and are less dependent on fossil fuels. While the aim is no different than that of the aviation industry in general, Collins is replacing more pneumatic systems with state-of-the-art electrical systems in aircraft.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 18:45:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/collins-aerospace-component-replacements-carbon-emissions-reduction/ Some military transport aircraft are immense, capable of carrying tanks, fighter jets, ammunition, and even helicopters. These massive planes drive the capabilities of various armed forces around the globe. But with significant power comes substantial costs and a hefty price tag.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 17:45:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-much-do-military-transport-aircraft-cost/ In the age of increasingly innovative technology, society unfortunately has to deal with people using it for the wrong purposes. People are concerned about cameras being everywhere: on mobile phones, laptops, hidden in buildings, and even inside an aircraft. While strict rules and regulations prevent people from doing something suspicious onboard a plane, it would make many anxious to know there are cameras looking out over the cabin passengers.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 14:46:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/cctv-on-airliners-debate-analysis/ General aviation pilots are accustomed to operating without air traffic controllers. Whether maneuvering in a practice area using “see and avoid” techniques or flying traffic patterns at an untowered airport, not having ATC is something every pilot is accustomed to. In contrast to general aviation, airline operations are almost exclusively performed under the supervision of ATC. Key word: almost. Let’s discuss some of the few times when airline pilots operate without ATC.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 13:45:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/when-airline-pilots-oeprate-without-atc-guide/ When it comes to air travel, finding the right balance between comfort and cost is often a top priority for many passengers. Qantas, Australia's flagship airline, understands this well and offers a premium travel option that bridges the gap between economy class and business class: Qantas Premium Economy.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 11:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-premium-economy-guide/ SWISS International Air Lines cabin crew has recently become involved in a spot of trouble with the airline for publicly posing for pictures and selfies on top of the wing of a parked Boeing 777 aircraft belonging to the airline while on the ground in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 09:01:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/swiss-crew-selfies-boeing-777/ Qantas is gearing up to deploy its luxurious Airbus A330 aircraft to Bali in the coming months. It comes as the province of Indonesia is reportedly one of the world's most in-demand travel destinations.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 04:07:17 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-airbus-a330s-bali/ Wamos Air will leave the skies between Auckland and Perth in October, as Air New Zealand announced its intentions to redeploy the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the route.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 02:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-new-zealand-reintroduces-boeing-787-auckland-perth/ Getting a job on a private jet as a flight attendant can be quite difficult. It is a very niche area, and there is a lot of competition for roles, so much so that many jobs are not even advertised. So what do you need to work on a private jet?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 20:31:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-to-become-private-jet-flight-attendant/ Mexico’s new Tulum International Airport (to be opened on December 1, 2023) has its initial new routes announced. On Thursday, Viva Aerobus and Aeromexico released the first commercial services they will operate once the airport is inaugurated later this year.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 19:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/tulum-international-airport-first-routes/ The use of private jets for those who can afford one is not only convenient but also time-effective. Celebrities, business owners, and executives of multi-million dollar companies often travel via private jets. Private jet travel is very different from commercial air travel. This article highlights six ways in which private jet operations differ from commercial airline operations.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 18:31:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/private-jet-operators-commercial-airlines-differences-list/ Surinam Airways, wholly owned by its country's government, is the flag carrier of Suriname. It has been flying for over 65 years, with a varied fleet of Boeing, Airbus, Douglas, and other aircraft. It has operated a limited number of long-haul routes to Europe. However, it has primarily focused on local connections.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 17:00:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/surinam-airways-guide/ Feeling fly like a G6? Or an Airbus A319ACJ? If you've got money to burn and first class suites are starting to feel ever-so-gauche, airlines are bulking up their premium offerings to ensure passengers the ultimate travel experience – private flights.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 15:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airlines-offer-private-jet-services/ Today, we will look at five food and drink items synonymous with modern commercial airlines. Handley Page Transport was the first airline to serve food on flights. Passengers between London and Paris were offered a selection of sandwiches and fresh fruit.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/food-drink-modern-airline-symbolism-list/ ASKY Airlines takes delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. The aircraft is yet to enter commercial service, flying alongside other 737s in the ASKY’s existing fleet. The aircraft is a 4.9-year-old jet, first delivered to Okay Airways in China in October 2018. The aircraft was ferried from Addis Ababa International Airport (ADD) to Lomé–Tokoin International Airport (LFW) to join the airline. The carrier has not scheduled services for the newest aircraft yet.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/asky-airlines-1st-boeing-737-max-delivery/ Simple Flying’s latest podcast is live and ready for you to enjoy. Hosted this week by Tom Boon, our Content Manager, the 184th episode is now available for your listening pleasure.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:45:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/podcast-184/ SWISS has four Airbus A340-300s. Like other four-engined widebodies in service with airlines worldwide, SWISS' examples are a diminishing part of its fleet. While the carrier's average A340 route length this summer covers more than 4,200 miles (6,759 km), it continues using them on short European routes – always great to see.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/swiss-airbus-a340-europe-flights/ The differences between flying with an airline and flying aboard a private jet go beyond comfort and convenience, into flight operations themselves. Operational differences often include higher cruising altitudes aboard private jets, which can significantly impact the flying experience. Why is this so?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 12:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-private-jets-usually-fly-higher/ Some believe duct tape can fix everything, but they would be mistaken. Indeed, it has various good uses inside and outside the home, but simple duct tape would not last long against the temperatures, forces, and elements that aircraft of all types experience. So, the industry has found another solution, called speed tape.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-airlines-use-speed-tape/ It is 50 years since Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War ended, but for those who want to see some of the aircraft from the conflict, the HARS Aviation Museum is the place to head for. The September Tarmac Day will feature a range of its aircraft that are associated with the war as a tribute to the Australian men and women who served their country.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/hars-museum-vietnam-war-aircraft-tarmac-day/ The Bombardier CRJ100/200 series is a popular line of rear-engined regional jets, with the manufacturer having produced more than 1,000 examples between 1991 and 2006. Today, data from ch-aviation.com shows that 309 of these remain active, and they are spread across some 80 operators. But which are the oldest?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 02:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/oldest-active-bombardier-crj100-200-jets/ The Airbus A380 is one of the most iconic aircraft of this century, if not the most iconic. Despite its lack of commercial success among airlines, the European double-decker is a favorite among travelers worldwide.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 02:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/best-airbus-a380-airport/ Since Bonza first appeared on the Australian radar, its mantra has been about connecting communities who don't have access to affordable fares with nonstop flights. Yesterday Bonza did precisely that by announcing a first-ever year-round direct service between Queensland's Gold Coast and Launceston on the island of Tasmania.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 01:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/bonza-737-max-links-gold-coast-tassie-nonstop/ In a significant milestone for aviation and cross-continental manufacturing collaboration, JetSMART has etched its name in history by becoming the first South American carrier to receive an aircraft manufactured in the Airbus factory in Mobile, Alabama, in the United States. The delivery of the Airbus A320neo marks an achievement for regional aviation and underscores the growing range of the European OEM.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 00:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/jetsmart-south-america-first-carrier-receive-alabama-made-airbus-aircraft/ In the age where airlines are always trying to get one more dollar from your flight booking, there is a lesser-known source of revenue. Many carriers allow their passengers to bid for an upgrade for less than the cost of booking the next travel class.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 23:31:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/the-business-behind-bidding-for-seat-upgrades/ Australia has 1,794 international departing flights in the first week of September, based on the latest OAG data. However, the country's international market has 11% fewer flights than before the pandemic. Predictably, this is especially the case for Hong Kong (-52%) and China (-40%), while there are many more services to India (+163%) and Vietnam (+65%).

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 18:31:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/australia-top-10-international-destinations/ Etihad Airways has close ties to Manchester City FC. As well as having been the team's kit sponsor since 2009, the Abu Dhabi-based UAE flag carrier's name has also adorned its home ground, the Etihad Stadium, since 2011. In reflection of this longstanding partnership, two Etihad jets have had Manchester City liveries.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 17:41:31 GMT https://simpleflying.com/etihad-airways-manchester-city-livery-story/ During my recent Emirates A380 journey, I had the chance to check out the Ahlan lounge located at Terminal 3, Concourse A of Dubai International Airport (DXB). While Emirates passengers do have access to the airline's lounge, there are over a dozen lounges located across all three terminals of DXB, which other passengers can use.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/ahlan-lounge-review-dubai-terminal-3/ The Middle Eastern mega-hub Dubai International Airport (DXB) is known worldwide for its facilities and capacity to handle massive passenger traffic. With its geographical location optimal for connecting passengers from and to all over the world, and Dubai being one of the best tourist destinations in the world, here are five fun facts about the airport.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/dubai-airport-fun-facts-list/ Just a couple of months before the resumption of its long-haul service, South African Airways (SAA) has updated its flight schedule, indicating that it will replace the Airbus A340 with the A330 on both routes between South Africa and Brazil.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/south-african-airways-swaps-airbus-a340-a330-brazil-flights/ While most of Qatar Airways' 164 passenger destinations from its Doha hub in September are served non-stop, several are served on a one-stop basis. This enables less demanded places to join its network, although aircraft availability and the closeness of airports also may be factors. One-stops often permit more flights than might otherwise be feasible, while improving loads, connectivity, and competitiveness. However, as they have higher costs and complexity, the eventual hope usually is to de-link them.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-1-stop-routes/ Recently, Simple Flying highlighted the weight savings of the General Electric GE9X engine as a result of the additive manufacturing (AM) techniques employed by the OEM. The company combined more than 300 engine parts into only seven through Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D Printing software that directs machines to deposit specialized material, layer upon layer, in precise geometric shapes. The process repeats until the entire part is created.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 12:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/3d-printing-aviation-advantages/ Antarctica is a continent characterized by its extreme conditions and isolated landscapes. It poses unique challenges for supporting any human activity, and aviation is no exception.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/antarctica-ice-runway-operations-infrastructure-guide/ Air New Zealand has committed to growing its regional fleet by placing an order for up to four ATR 72-600 turboprops. The deal that it has signed with the Franco-Italian manufacturer has seen it place two firm orders for the type, with options for another pair. Elsewhere, the carrier's short-haul jet fleet is also set to see growth.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-new-zealand-atr-order/ One of the big advantages of private jet travel is flexibility. Private aviation travelers have flexibility with where and when to fly, the route to take, and even what aircraft to use. Such aircraft can land at a wide range of airports - from the most prominent commercial airports to those with dedicated private facilities.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 09:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/where-do-private-jets-land/ After racking up billions of dollars in losses during COVID, Qantas has produced a stunning turnaround, posting an underlying profit of AU$$2.47 billion ($1.63b) for the twelve months ended June 30th, 2023 (FY23).

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 08:21:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-a247-billion-profit-mega-sale-points-giveaway/ It has been a bumper financial year and a bonza day for the two airline heavyweights from Australasia. Starting the day, Air New Zealand announced statutory earnings of NZ$574 million ($344m) and a few hours later Qantas chipped in with an underlying profit of AU$2.47 billion ($1.63b).

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 05:30:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-new-zealand-profit-airbus-a321neos-trans-tasman/ American ultra-low-cost-carrier (ULCC) Frontier (F9) is set to soar this winter, as the carrier announced a long list of new routes across its ever-expanding network.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 02:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/frontier-airlines-mexico-dominican-republic-expansion-2023/ Today Australia's flag carrier Qantas announced an underlying profit of AU$2.47 billion ($1.63b) and immediately set about spending it on new aircraft. After much speculation Qantas confirmed it had placed firm orders for Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft to ultimately replace its fleet of A330 and A380 jets.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 01:51:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-orders-a350s-787s-replace-a330s-a380s/ In a significant development, the alliance between JetSMART and American Airlines has achieved a major milestone with the inclusion of Peru in their codeshare agreement. This strategic partnership has taken another leap forward, expanding its reach beyond Chile and the United States to now encompass Peru.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/jetsmart-increases-codeshare-american-airlines/ Have you ever wondered whether aircraft seats are getting smaller or if you're eating too many pies? Chances are it's the seats, despite your pie intake.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 23:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-airlines-reducing-leg-room-isnt-always-bad/ Líneas Aéreas Privadas Argentinas, better known as LAPA, was an Argentinian carrier that existed for over a quarter of a century. It was the first private company to run domestic flights in the country, and it battled against the state operators Aerolíneas Argentinas and Austral. However, it has now been defunct for two decades, which begs the question as to what happened to the airline. Let's take a look.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:31:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/argentina-lapa/ The Airport Council International – Latin America & the Caribbean (ACI-LAC) released today the top ten ranking of airports in the region with the most passenger traffic, cargo, and aircraft movements in 2022. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the listing was dominated by hubs in Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil, the three largest aviation markets in the region. Let’s investigate further.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 22:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/latin-america-ten-busiest-airports-2022/ Qatar Airways, a longtime partner of FIFA, has extended its partnership with the world football organization. At this time, the exact details of the extension are unknown.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 21:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-extends-partnership-fifa/ Concorde was a remarkable feat of engineering and represented perhaps the pinnacle of luxury air travel during its time in service. It was even often preferred over private jets for many transatlantic flights due to its impressive speed and level of luxury. From its commercial debut in the 1970s until its retirement in 2003, this supersonic jet attracted many of the world's most prestigious and famous passengers. Let's look at five famous Concorde passengers who left a mark on the iconic airliner's history.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:01:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/famous-frequent-concorde-passengers-list/ Aerolíneas Argentinas’ four unions rejected the airline’s first wage increase proposal on Tuesday during the ongoing salary negotiations. According to the Unions, the proposal presented by the state carrier was “well below the inflation rate,” prompting them to reject it firmly.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 19:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/argentinian-union-rejects-aerolineas-argentinas-wage-increase/ Today, we will look at some top tips for flying during hot weather. If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you will know that this summer has been sweltering in parts of Southern Europe, the Southwest United States, and even parts of China. Last month, Italy, Greece, and Spain saw temperatures exceed 45C (113F). Meanwhile, Phoenix, Arizona, was baking as the temperature exceeded 110F for consecutive days.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:31:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-travel-hot-weather-top-tips/ Quadjet widebody aircraft are becoming increasingly rare in passenger operations as airlines prefer much more fuel-efficient twinjets. Nonetheless, a range of airlines still use them.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/quadjet-widebody-flights-september-2023/ The general understanding of the distinctions between commercial and private flying often focuses on business jets' enhanced comfort and convenience. But there are certainly more contrasts between the two, including differences in the altitude these aircraft operate.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 14:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/how-high-do-private-jets-fly/ This summer has been one of the busiest for air travel in history, with airlines worldwide surpassing previous highs in every category ranging from passengers carried to total profits. Like countless other airlines, Emirates has profited heavily from the summer travel demand. Since June, it has carried over 14 million passengers, averaging a seat load factor of over 80%. While this is undoubtedly one of the busiest summers for Emirates, it is also one of the most profitable.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:00:24 GMT https://simpleflying.com/emirates-14-million-passengers-summer-2023/ After ten years of connecting East Africa with the Republic of Korea, Ethiopian Airlines (ET) is scaling up its frequency between Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) and Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) to six weekly flights, starting on October 28. The carrier will also deploy its latest Airbus A350 aircraft on the route.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:31:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/ethiopian-airlines-ups-seoul-schedule-airbus-a350/ Qatar Airways has confirmed that it will cease flying to Philadelphia. While expected, it comes as partner American Airlines adds Philadelphia-Doha. It resulted from its exit from New York JFK-Doha, which meant that Qatar Airways grew JFK flights to triple daily.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-airways-drops-philadelphia-american-airlines-takes-over/ Air travel can be stressful enough as it is for anyone, but regardless of in what capacity, traveling with young children is very challenging. Airlines attempt to make things less burdensome for parents with infants by allowing them to hold their babies during the flight. This article examines some of the ins and outs of such an offering.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 08:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/when-do-young-children-need-own-flight-tickets/ Passengers are typically seen pulling laptops and other devices out of their carry-on bags as soon as the airplane hits cruising altitude. Especially on long flights, this seems to be a regular occurrence. But not all computer users utilize a portable laptop and instead use a larger desktop computer.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 01:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/can-desktop-computers-be-transported-on-airliners/ South Korea's Air Premia has added its next US route: Seoul to Honolulu. While not available to book at the time of writing, it is now in the schedules. The addition comes three months after it inaugurated Seoul to Newark in May 2023. Like all the carrier's routes, Honolulu will entirely rely on point-to-point demand, which can be tricky for long-haul operators.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 23:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-premia-boeing-787-flights-honolulu-united-states/ On July 11th, 2019, the 'One More Orbit' mission succeeded in breaking the polar circumnavigation speed record, clocking in at 46 hours, 40 minutes and 22 seconds pole-to-pole. The effort was completed onboard a Qatar Executive Gulfstream G650ER, and the record has yet to be beaten four years after it was set.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 22:30:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qatar-gulfstream-circumnavigation-record/ Ethiopian Airlines is set to introduce its long-haul Airbus A350 fleet on flights to South America starting this October, the company announced on Monday. Additionally, the Addis Ababa-based airline is celebrating its tenth year of operations to Brazil.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 19:00:29 GMT https://simpleflying.com/ethiopian-airlines-send-airbus-a350-brasil-october-2023/ Taking a pet dog on vacation can be extremely rewarding - canine companions love a change of scenery just as much as their owners do, and they are part of the family, after all. But the practicalities of flying with a dog may put some passengers off.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 18:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/us-airlines-that-allow-dogs/ Welcome to my 96th weekly routes newsletter! I've covered a few subjectively exciting routes that took off recently. Why not sign up and receive my newsletter in your email inbox every week?

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 15:01:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/notable-airline-routes-96/ It is known to most flight attendants that some passengers seem to pack their brains in their hold luggage. Most passengers would not even consider what they might say to the flight attendant. They truly say the most bizarre things. They might not realize that their little joke could get them into trouble. Or that they are being offensive. Let's take a look at some things you should not say to a flight attendant.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 13:30:27 GMT https://simpleflying.com/what-not-to-say-to-flight-attendants/ You may have seen skiplagging making headlines again recently - this comes after American Airlines launched a lawsuit against travel website Skiplagged, which specializes in helping its visitors find 'hidden-city ticketing'.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 12:06:22 GMT https://simpleflying.com/skipplagging-in-the-news/ South Africa is celebrating a new direct connection with North Africa, as Air Algérie operated its longest African flight between Algiers and Johannesburg on Monday, August 21.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:30:49 GMT https://simpleflying.com/air-algerie-longest-africa-route-johannesburg-airbus-a330/ An airline's route network dictates what it has, does, and generates. The following five carriers have the highest number of routes this August-December. Based on the latest information from Cirium and OAG, it includes all scheduled offerings.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/airlines-most-routes-planned-august-december-2023/ On August 15th, a Gulf Air Boeing 787-9 flying from London to Bahrain diverted to Frankfurt due to a fuel leak. The crew landed safely, reportedly using only one engine. Technical issues aside, passengers on the affected flight may have been improperly looked after upon landing in Frankfurt.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 09:10:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/gulf-air-boeing-787-9-diverts-to-frankfurt-due-to-fuel-leak/ Modern-day fighter pilots look mighty impressive in their jumpsuits with expressive squadron badges and pilot wings. Besides the obvious, you may need to realize that much effort is involved in designing today's fighter pilot equipment.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 08:30:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/fighter-pilots-cockpit-clothing-guide/ An Australian Senate inquiry into the cost of living pressures has become embroiled in the government's decision to reject an application by Qatar Airways to operate more flights to Australia's major cities. The subject has turned into the proverbial political football, with some pundits suggesting the relationship between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and out-going Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is too close.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 08:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-ceo-qatar-airways-dispute/ Spain's women's national football team is back home in Madrid following a win against England at the FIFA Women's World Cup in Sydney, Australia. On Monday, Spain's flag airline Iberia carried the world champions back to the country onboard a specialized Airbus A350.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 05:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/iberia-flies-womens-world-cup-winners-madrid-airbus-a350/ Qantas will fly the Airbus A380 to Johannesburg from next July as part of a broad array of changes. Replacing the Boeing 787-9 will result in more than double the number of seats per flight. While the equipment swap is not yet reflected in schedules or booking engines, Johannesburg will join a small group of airports to have A380 flights from three or more airlines.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 23:00:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/qantas-sydney-australia-johannesburg-south-africa-airbus-a380-flights/ The world's air forces have constantly attempted to innovate over the years, trying to gain every possible advantage in combat operations through the continued design of new aircraft. However, not all ideas that left the drawing board were successful and became household names. In this article, we'll look into five of the strangest military aircraft you may not have heard of.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 19:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/rare-military-aircraft-list/ Breaking it down by world regions, we will look at July's figures for airline on-time performance. A carrier's aircraft is considered on time if it parks at the gate within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/july-most-punctual-airlines-by-region/ Depending on the customer's requirements, a private jet can be as large as a Boeing 747-8. Both Airbus and Boeing offer a range of private jets, the sizes of which are based on their commercial transport counterparts. Larger jets can have an operating range of up to 9,700 NM (18,000 km) and cost anywhere between $150 million and $400 million.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 15:31:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/heres-how-far-private-jets-can-fly/ Norse Atlantic has removed London Gatwick to Kingston from sale more than three months before the first flight. The Jamaican capital was one of four routes the long-haul low-cost carrier introduced to improve winter performance, which is crucial to overall profitability and sustainability.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 15:00:28 GMT https://simpleflying.com/norse-atlantic-cuts-gatwick-kingston-before-first-flight/ United Airlines is reducing its winter flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) from several of its hubs, removing multiple daily frequencies on some routes. In January alone, 207 flights to London were cut from United’s network. It is unclear why United has reduced so much of its network to London this winter, and Simple Flying has contacted United for further information. The airline has not replied at the time of publication.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:40:53 GMT https://simpleflying.com/united-airlines-reduces-winter-schedule-2023-london-heathrow/ Many pilots would agree that nighttime flying is more tranquil than flying during daylight hours. The air is generally smoother, there is less traffic to work around, and fewer voices are heard on the radio. It's also easier to go "direct to" navigational fixes or get the runway assignment nearest to the flight's arrival gate. There are lots of upsides to night flying. One of the few disadvantages is the reality of laser strikes. This article will discuss them and the danger laser strikes pose to flights.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 12:30:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/lasers-pilots-aircraft-threat-analysis/ Fighter pilots always wear a helmet and mask unit for the entire duration of any flight. This is something we, of course, expect to see in military fighter aircraft – but we never would for civilian flights. Why is this? There are several reasons – and it's not just about air supply.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:30:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/why-do-fighter-pilots-wear-masks/ Many readers were saddened to hear the news that the Airbus A380 was to be discontinued. Many airlines fell out of love with the aircraft, claiming it was too expensive to run and hard to fill up. But if Airbus were to redesign the A380, could it be made profitable and attractive to carriers?

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:16:25 GMT https://simpleflying.com/a380-profitable-redesign/ Ground handling service provider Menzies was evicted from Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) on August 19 and replaced by Paragon, leading to several flight disruptions. Some flights to Windhoek were canceled, while others were diverted to other airports.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:01:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/windhoek-airport-evicts-menzies-ground-handler/ The Boeing 777 is a heavyweight of long-haul flying, with the US manufacturer having delivered more than 1,700 examples. There is considerable excitement surrounding the next-generation 777X, which will see the 'triple-seven' remain a familiar sight for years to come, but at the other end of the spectrum, what about the oldest passenger-carrying examples? Let's look at where these can be found.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:00:26 GMT https://simpleflying.com/oldest-boeing-777s/