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Airlines and Aviation

Airlines offer perks to keep grounded elite flyers on board

Joe Cusmano Aug 12, 2021

From wellness workshops to dinner with a celebrity chef and flights to nowhere, Asia's big international airlines are working hard to keep their most lucrative customers engaged as the…

How countries are learning to Live with COVID

Joe Cusmano Aug 12, 2021

The mantra is becoming increasingly consistent: we must learn to live with the virus.

International aviation sector may well leave Australia behind

Joe Cusmano Aug 12, 2021

Brisbane Airport’s CEO has said international airlines “may well leave Australia behind” as vaccinated nations begin to remove COVID restrictions now.

The US aviation regulator calls to get tough on air rage

Joe Cusmano Aug 11, 2021

The top aviation regulator in the United States has proposed that local police across the country file more charges against unruly airline passengers and that airports restrict alcohol…

Travellers fined for trying to enter Canada with fake COVID paper

Joe Cusmano Aug 11, 2021

Two people who gave false information about their COVID-19 vaccination status to authorities while trying to enter Toronto from the U.S. have just been slapped with very expensive penalties.

Vaccination Updates

American CEO explains why his airline is not requiring vaccinations

Joe Cusmano Aug 11, 2021

In the wake of United Airlines announcing new policies for mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations of employees, American Airlines CEO Doug Parker said there’s a simple reason why he’s not requiring…

Air travellers struggling with new travel rules

Joe Cusmano Aug 11, 2021

According to a recent IATA passenger survey, most air travellers are confident in the safety of air travel and support the use of masks in the near term.

Doha international airport named “Best Airport in the World”

Joe Cusmano Aug 10, 2021

Doha Hamad International Airport (HIA) has been named "Best Airport in the World" at the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards 2021.

Airlines and Aviation

‘On top of the world’: Emirates new ad terrifying stunt

Joe Cusmano Aug 10, 2021

Emirates' jaw-dropping advertising stunt has certainly piqued people's interest, but those who are afraid of heights should avoid watching.

Vaccination Updates

United Airlines will require employees to be vaccinated

Joe Cusmano Aug 10, 2021

United Airlines announced Friday that it will require all employees to be vaccinated against the coronavirus as a condition of employment.

US won’t lift travel restrictions due to spread of Delta variant

Joe Cusmano Aug 10, 2021

Restrictions that have barred much of the world's population from visiting the United States since 2020 will not be lifted in the short term, according to the White House.

Government strips travel exemption for Australian’s living abroad

Joe Cusmano Aug 10, 2021

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the National Cabinet has agreed in principle on vaccine targets for the country's four-phase plan to recover from the pandemic.

Airlines and Aviation

American Airlines cancels 300 flights, most due to pilot shortage

Joe Cusmano Aug 9, 2021

American Airlines had to cancel nearly 300 flights only by early last week, mostly due to a lack of pilots, the Associated Press reported.

European Commission moves closer to Schengen Visa rollout

Joe Cusmano Aug 9, 2021

The European Commission has outlined new rules for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

Qatar Airways grounds 13 Airbus A350s

Joe Cusmano Aug 9, 2021

Qatar Airways grounded 13 Airbus A350s on Thursday due to fuselages “degrading at an accelerated rate” in the long-range aircraft, escalating a months-long dispute with the European…

Airlines and Aviation

Flight Attendant ‘Threatened’ Tiktoker to be thrown off a plane

Joe Cusmano Aug 6, 2021

TikToker Sierra Steadman was dressed as what she thought was a plain Jane when she boarded an Alaska Airlines plane — until a flight attendant told her to get off because of her outfit.

Airlines and Aviation

Passenger duct-taped to seat for assaulting flight attendants

Joe Cusmano Aug 6, 2021

A 22-year-old passenger of Frontier Airlines is facing three misdemeanour charges for battery after he allegedly groped and assaulted flight attendants while the plane was in the air.

Darwin Airport to process all arrival repatriation flights

Joe Cusmano Aug 6, 2021

The Northern Territory government has reached an agreement to process all arriving repatriation flights at Darwin International Airport (DIA).

Air NZ flags big revenue loss from bubble pause

Joe Cusmano Aug 6, 2021

Air New Zealand has forecast a bigger financial hit after New Zealand suspended its travel bubble with Australia.

Boeing reports increasing profits in the second quarter

Joe Cusmano Aug 5, 2021

Boeing reported $17 billion in revenue for the second quarter, owing to increased demand for commercial aircraft.

Patiently waiting until 2022 to take my big trip…maybe

Joe Cusmano Aug 5, 2021

Australia’s international border has been closed for the past 18 months, if anyone wants to travel overseas right now needs clearance by the Home Department to leave with a valid reason,…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Jetstar to stand down 2500 frontline staff

Joe Cusmano Aug 5, 2021

Due to the COVID outbreak in Sydney and restrictions lockdown and border closures in all other states and territories will see around 2500 Qantas and Jetstar front line staff stood down.

Airlines and Aviation

Australian Airlines receive another lifeline

Joe Cusmano Aug 5, 2021

To avoid another round of job losses, Australian airlines will be able to claim $750 per week for half of their pilots and flight attendants.

Airlines and Aviation

United Airlines let passengers pre-order food before flights

Joe Cusmano Aug 4, 2021

United Airlines announced a new option for passengers to pre-order food, snacks, and beverages online up to five days before their scheduled flight.

Airlines and Aviation

EU pressures Cathay Pacific to restart flights or lose slots

Joe Cusmano Aug 4, 2021

Cathay Pacific could be at risk of losing runway slots in Europe if local travel restrictions are not eased.

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad to rehire staff laid off during the start of the pandemic

Joe Cusmano Aug 4, 2021

Etihad Airways is preparing to rehire some of the thousands of employees it laid off during the pandemic.

Brisbane quarantine hub receives green light

Joe Cusmano Aug 4, 2021

Queensland Deputy Premier Steven Miles has welcomed the news that the proposed quarantine site on Commonwealth land near Brisbane Airport has been deemed a viable option, adding that it must…

Toronto airport to line up arrivals by vaccination status

Joe Cusmano Aug 3, 2021

Canada is not open for tourists; only essential travel is allowed.

The delta variant in countries with zero or “almost zero” cases

Joe Cusmano Aug 3, 2021

The spread of the Delta variant is putting a strain on the contagion containment strategies of some of the countries that had managed to minimize the circulation of the SARS-CoV-2…

Reopening updates

Scott Morrison announces target to COVID-19 freedom

Joe Cusmano Aug 3, 2021

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced that a national COVID-19 vaccination target of 80% will be required for Australia to reopen and remove crippling pandemic restrictions.

Qantas sells old business class seats

Joe Cusmano Aug 3, 2021

Were you a Qantas frequent Business class flyer and aficionado? Stretching out on an A380 business class Skybed must rank as one of the highlights of a long-haul flight.

TDM Guest Contributor

UK’s summer travel takes off but nothing like pre-COVID

Joe Cusmano Aug 2, 2021

With British schools now closed for the summer, airports and airlines were looking a tad more normal on Saturday, although the number of families heading off for warmer climes remains way…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad rolls out IATA Travel Pass to seven destination

Joe Cusmano Aug 2, 2021

Following successful trials, Etihad Airways has expanded the IATA Travel Pass to flights between Abu Dhabi and seven additional destinations on its network.

IATA warns testing costs may deter travellers

Joe Cusmano Aug 2, 2021

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on governments to ensure that high costs for Covid-19 testing do not put travel out of reach for individuals and families.

Back to the future? Airline sector poised to change post-COVID-19

Joe Cusmano Aug 2, 2021

As they look beyond the pandemic, airlines need to grapple with five new realities—and devise strategies to adapt.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas to launch ‘Digital Health Pass’ for international flights

Joe Cusmano Jul 31, 2021

Qantas will soon launch TravelPass, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) 'digital health' smartphone app for international flights, with the ability to store and present proof…

TDM Guest Contributor

Heathrow Airport to introduce a GBP5 passenger drop-off charge

Joe Cusmano Jul 30, 2021

Heathrow Airport is making a desperate attempt to recoup more than £2 billion in lost revenue from the pandemic by instituting a £5 drop-off fee for passengers arriving by car or taxi.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex considering legal options against Qantas

Joe Cusmano Jul 30, 2021

Regional Express is considering legal action to combat what it believes is capacity dumping and predatory pricing by Qantas on the carrier's now grounded domestic routes and core regional…

Airlines and Aviation

Funding shortfall for would be newest Australian airline “Brad”

Joe Cusmano Jul 30, 2021

Would-be Australian airline “Brad” is struggling to gain traction.

Vaccination Updates

Qantas calls to make vaccination mandatory for airlines workers

Joe Cusmano Jul 30, 2021

Qantas has urged all states to make COVID vaccines mandatory for all Australian aviation workers.

Airlines and Aviation

British Airways offers a new fast bag-drop before check-in

Joe Cusmano Jul 29, 2021

British Airways has teamed up with AirPortr to create new convenient fast bag drop areas before heading to the departure’s concourse at British Airways’ London flagship Terminal 5 at…

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore’s Scoot seeks Europe fifth freedoms rights

Joe Cusmano Jul 29, 2021

To put it simply, fifth freedom routes are cool. They are one-of-a-kind and unusual. I think the coolest thing about the world is how small and interconnected it is.

Lockdowns are once Again Posing a threat to Australia’s Airlines

Joe Cusmano Jul 29, 2021

Greater Sydney's lockdown has been extended until at least the 28 of August, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has confirmed.

Airlines and Aviation

US Airlines say COVID-19 variants aren’t hurting bookings

Joe Cusmano Jul 28, 2021

Rising concern about the fast-spreading delta variant of COVID-19 is creating turbulence for the stocks of big travel companies.

Airlines and Aviation

Man with coronavirus uses disguise to fly

Joe Cusmano Jul 28, 2021

A man infected with coronavirus snuck onto an Indonesian domestic flight this past Sunday.

Reopening updates

Phuket Complex Sandbox visa process

Joe Cusmano Jul 28, 2021

Phuket, Thailand’s most popular island destination, welcomed international visitors for the first time in 15 months as the country cautiously reopens to some fully vaccinated visitors.

Australia’s Whitehaven Beach ranked second in global Top 50

Joe Cusmano Jul 28, 2021

The world's top-50 beaches have been named for 2021, with an Australian gem nabbing the prestigious runner-up spot.

Airlines and Aviation

United flight evacuated after teen AirDropped photo of air gun

Joe Cusmano Jul 27, 2021

A teen caused a United Airlines flight to be evacuated after he AirDropped an image of a gun to other passengers.

UK border officers to stop routine COVID checks

Joe Cusmano Jul 27, 2021

U.K. border officers have been directed to stop routinely checking whether travellers from many countries have tested negative for COVID-19, British media reported Wednesday, citing leaked…

Reopening updates

International travel largely on hold despite an uptick in May

Joe Cusmano Jul 27, 2021

Despite a small uptick in May, the emergence of COVID-19 variants and the continued imposition of restrictions are weighing on the recovery of international travel.

The end of the domestic bliss for Australia

Joe Cusmano Jul 27, 2021

The resurgence of Covid-19 cases in Australia's domestic air travel market reflects a growing trend of Covid-19 challenges in Asia-Pacific, with no easy solutions.

Airlines and Aviation

U.S. to require airlines to refund passengers for delayed bags

Joe Cusmano Jul 26, 2021

The U.S. Department of Transportation is moving to require airlines to refund fees to passengers for checked bags if the luggage is significantly delayed to the destination, according to a…

US warns against travel to UK as COVID-19 spike continues

Joe Cusmano Jul 26, 2021

US citizens have been warned against travel to the UK over spiralling coronavirus cases.

Airlines and Aviation

REX reduces services due to lockdowns

Joe Cusmano Jul 26, 2021

Rex has announced that it will suspend or “significantly reduce” services impacted by state border closures and lockdowns.

New Zealand bursts Australia travel bubble

Joe Cusmano Jul 26, 2021

For at least eight weeks, there will be no quarantine-free travel between New Zealand and any Australian state.

Jeff Bezos successful Blue Origin space flight

Joe Cusmano Jul 23, 2021

The Amazon founder Jeff Bezos hailed “the best day ever” after completing his pioneering foray into space on Tuesday with three crewmates, among them his brother Mark.

Doha overtakes Dubai

Joe Cusmano Jul 23, 2021

ForwardKeys, which has the world’s freshest and most comprehensive flight booking data, reveals that in the first half of 2021, Doha seized and consolidated a lead over Dubai.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas staff brace for possible job losses

Joe Cusmano Jul 23, 2021

Qantas employees have been warned that ongoing COVID-19 border closures across Australia may force the airline to lay off workers.

Sydney lockdown could last until September

Joe Cusmano Jul 23, 2021

Experts have warned Sydneysiders to brace for another two months of lockdown restrictions because authorities waited too long to go hard.

Reopening updates

Americans struggle to get their passports renewed

Joe Cusmano Jul 22, 2021

Americans are finally taking their long-awaited vacations, a surprising number of them are realising that they must renew their passports before they can travel abroad.

Airlines and Aviation

Successor to bankrupt Alitalia under attack by low-cost airlines

Joe Cusmano Jul 22, 2021

The successor to bankrupt Italian flag-carrier Alitalia faces an uphill battle to establish itself after low-cost rivals took advantage of the pandemic and a long restructuring process to…

Airlines and Aviation

American Airlines suspends fights to Australia

Joe Cusmano Jul 22, 2021

American Airlines is pulling out of Australia after the federal government again cut the cap on air arrivals into the country.

Vaccination Updates

AstraZeneca-vaccinated Aussie may face hurdle to travel to Europe

Joe Cusmano Jul 22, 2021

Australians vaccinated with the AstraZeneca jab face potential problems visiting Europe, thanks to a quirk in the European Union's vaccine approval process.

Airlines and Aviation

British Airways facing crew shortage due to rising infection rate

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

British Airways is facing a cabin crew shortage as the airline adds more flights to reopened holiday destinations just as increasing numbers of crew are being ordered to self-isolate.

Vaccination Updates

Oman Air flies two routes with fully vaccinated crew

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, operated two regularly scheduled passenger flights with fully vaccinated crews to two separate domestic destinations in the Sultanate…

Airlines and Aviation

Gulf Air operates 80% of pre-pandemic destinations

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

Gulf Air begins the summer season with 80% of its pre-pandemic destinations as it continues to resume operations and restore services to cities of its original 2019 destination network.

US Airlines have enough passengers, but not enough crew

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

There are a whole lot of people travelling these days in the U.S. Airports are packed, flights are packed. And the speedy return of domestic travel has many airlines scrambling to bring back…

Airlines and Aviation

Farewell Alitalia: ITA cleared for take-off

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

The new airline being created to replace the long financially ailing Alitalia will take off on Oct. 15 with its first flights, the Italian Economy Ministry announced Thursday.

World Best Airlines 2021 announced

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only safety, product and COVID rating website has announced Qatar Airways as its Airline of the Year for 2021.

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines retiring Airbus 380 fleet and looking for buyer

Joe Cusmano Jul 21, 2021

The pandemic has caused the acceleration of Airbus A380 retirements. Air France, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, and Thai Airways have retired (or plan to retire) their A380 fleets, while Qatar…

Airlines and Aviation

Delta Air Lines returns to profit in second quarter

Joe Cusmano Jul 19, 2021

Delta Air Lines has reported a $652 million profit for the three months to June.

Airlines and Aviation

United Airlines to buy 100 19 seat electric planes

Joe Cusmano Jul 19, 2021

United Airlines announced on Tuesday that it will purchase 100 19-seat ES-19 electric planes from Swedish start-up Heart Aerospace, as the US carrier considers battery-powered aircraft for…

TDM Guest Contributor

Airlines are increasingly becoming targets for cyber attacks

Joe Cusmano Jul 19, 2021

According to a Eurocontrol report, there has been a significant increase in cyber-attacks against various segments of the aviation industry over the last year.

Airlines and Aviation

World’s top 20 Covid-19 compliant airlines

Joe Cusmano Jul 16, 2021

Airlineratings.com, the world’s only safety, product, and COVID-19 rating agency has named its Top Twenty airlines for COVID-19 compliance.

Abu Dhabi cancels contract on gigantic billion dollar new airport

Joe Cusmano Jul 16, 2021

The oil-rich Gulf emirate of Abu Dhabi is said to have cancelled a nearly $3 billion contract for a long-delayed new airport terminal that was to be dominated by Etihad Airways.

Australia will soon trial home quarantine

Joe Cusmano Jul 16, 2021

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a home quarantine trial in South Australia for fully vaccinated travellers, which he said could pave the way for Australians to be allowed to leave…

Airlines and Aviation

Pax feared for lives during American Airlines security incident

Joe Cusmano Jul 15, 2021

Passengers aboard an American Airlines flight to Miami experienced a bizarre security incident on Thursday night with passengers admitting they were scared for their lives after an…

Airlines and Aviation

Woman gets duct-taped to seat after trying to open door in-flight

Joe Cusmano Jul 15, 2021

Flight attendants onboard an American Airlines flight are facing criticism for their unusual method of dealing with an unruly passenger after a video emerged of them duct-taping a woman to…

The US borders will remain closed to most international traveller

Joe Cusmano Jul 15, 2021

According to a White House official who spoke to Reuters, the United States will not ease international travel restrictions anytime soon.

IATA chief Willie Walsh talks about airline industry’s prospects

Joe Cusmano Jul 15, 2021

As COVID-19 grounded international travel, commercial airlines knew they would have a turbulent time ahead, and as restrictions continue, the situation is still up in the air.

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways joins IATA’s turbulence aware platform

Joe Cusmano Jul 14, 2021

Qatar Airways and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Qatar Airways will become the first airline in the Middle East to join the IATA Turbulence Aware platform.…

Reopening updates

Hawaiian plea to airlines: Please don’t bring so many people here

Joe Cusmano Jul 14, 2021

As mainlanders return in droves, Maui officials are making an unusual request of airlines: Please don't bring so many people to our island.

Airlines and Aviation

United CEO voices optimism on future of travel

Joe Cusmano Jul 14, 2021

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, appearing on national television this Sunday morning on CBS’ ‘Face The Nation,’ voiced optimism over everything from the return of business travel to the…

Velocity Frequent Flyer member on track to fly to space

Joe Cusmano Jul 13, 2021

The dream of flying to space is one giant leap closer to reality for Velocity Frequent Flyer member, Scott Copeland from Melbourne.

Richard Branson wins billionaires’ space race

Joe Cusmano Jul 13, 2021

Billionaire Richard Branson managed to be first after all.

Airlines and Aviation

Airlines are slowly recovering: Which countries are bouncing back

Joe Cusmano Jul 13, 2021

Floats were leaving the aircraft storage facilities to spend months at the warm, dry desert sunshine.

Reopening updates

Australia-Singapore travel bubble delayed

Joe Cusmano Jul 13, 2021

Australia’s travel bubble with Singapore has been delayed until the end of 2021, the Federal Tourism Minister confirmed on Sunday.

Vaccination Updates

Australia’s vaccine passport could be on phones by December

Joe Cusmano Jul 13, 2021

Covid-19 vaccines could be administered at your local Bunnings under a suggestion raised at talks between the federal government and business leaders.

Travel demand showed ‘marginal improvements’ in May 2021

Joe Cusmano Jul 12, 2021

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that both international and domestic travel demand showed marginal improvements in May-2021.

Airlines and Aviation

Is Garuda Indonesia on the brink of bankruptcy?

Joe Cusmano Jul 12, 2021

COVID-19 has battered Indonesian flag carrier Garuda’s revenue and sent earnings plunging, causing trading of the airline’s shares to be halted recently after a bond default.

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines set for regional dominance as rivals pull back

Joe Cusmano Jul 12, 2021

Singapore Airlines has, with aid from the state investor, been in a position of dominance over its South-East Asian competitors as they decrease and restructure with USD16 billion (SGD 21.6…

Airlines and Aviation

United Airlines to add bluetooth to in-flight entertainment

Joe Cusmano Jul 9, 2021

As part of United Airlines' “United Next” upgrade, the company is adding oft-requested support for Bluetooth headphones.

Vaccination Updates

Phuket opens for vaccinated tourist whilst cases soar in Thailand

Joe Cusmano Jul 9, 2021

Most of Phuket's income is linked to tourism, and it was lost when Thailand tightened its borders and enforced strict rules.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Australia joins the campaign to accelerate vaccinations

Joe Cusmano Jul 9, 2021

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka joined other business leaders at the Operation COVID Shield National Business Partnership Forum meeting.

Airlines and Aviation

Air NZ dust off long-haul routes suspended at start of pandemic

Joe Cusmano Jul 9, 2021

Air New Zealand is bringing back long-haul routes it suspended in early 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic and is increasing frequencies on the few long-haul services it has been…

Vaccination Updates

Qatar Airways trials vaccine verification via IATA Travel Pass

Joe Cusmano Jul 8, 2021

Qatar Airways is the first airline to begin trialling Covid-19 vaccine authentication through the IATA Travel Pass mobile app, as the airline seeks to provide a more contactless, secure and…

Airlines and Aviation

Plans for new Saudi airline to takes aim at Emirates and Qatar

Joe Cusmano Jul 8, 2021

Saudi Arabia plans to target international transit passenger traffic with its new national airline, going head-to-head with Gulf giants Emirates and Qatar Airways and opening a new front in…

Brits to spend more on holidays after the pandemic

Joe Cusmano Jul 8, 2021

While 50% of Brits have been saving more since the pandemic, two-fifths (41%) of Brits are planning to spend more on their holidays once international travel resumes, according to the new…

Reopening updates

Johnson announces plan for reopening in England from 19 July

Joe Cusmano Jul 8, 2021

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that people in England will no longer be legally required to wear a face-covering and that all Covid-19 social distancing rules will be…

Airlines and Aviation

Airline caps will bump 18,000 Australians off flights home

Joe Cusmano Jul 8, 2021

According to airlines, 18,000 Australians will be bumped from flights back home in the next six weeks as a result of the Australian cabinet's decision to cut the number of international…

Airlines and Aviation

Struggling Norwegian paid managers $3.5 million in bonuses

Joe Cusmano Jul 7, 2021

Norwegian Air has awarded $3.5 million in management bonuses just as the carrier emerged from bankruptcy protection and restructuring.

Airlines and Aviation

Caught trying to board an Emirates flight with fake boarding pass

Joe Cusmano Jul 7, 2021

A 25-year-old Frenchman was found guilty of attempting to board an Emirates flight to Dubai without a ticket by using a forged boarding pass to fool airport security.

Airlines and Aviation

Flight prices to Australia soar ahead of new arrival caps

Joe Cusmano Jul 7, 2021

Airlines were already struggling to operate long-haul flights to Australia with 50-60 passengers onboard; with the reduced caps beginning in mid-July, they will have no choice but to raise…

Reopening updates

Qantas boss Alan Joyce plan to reopen Australian borders by 2022

Joe Cusmano Jul 7, 2021

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is among many business leaders who have responded to the national cabinet’s four-phase pathway out of the pandemic announced on Friday to resume international travel…

Reopening updates

Bali delays tourism reopening again

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

The Indonesian government will not open Bali to foreign tourists until Covid-19 cases have decreased significantly, according to the country's tourism minister in an interview.

Reopening updates

Trans-Tasman travel bubble partially reopens with three states

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

With the partial reopening of the travel bubble, Australians from three states and the ACT can now travel to New Zealand without being quarantined.

Reopening updates

PM Scott Morrison unveils four phases reopening plan

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

Fully vaccinated Australians would be allowed to spend only seven days in-home quarantine under a pilot programme.

Reopening updates

NYC launches extensive recovery campaign

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

NYC & Company has launched the first phase of “It’s Time for New York City,” the largest-ever, multi-phased global tourism marketing and advertising campaign from the body.

Flying car completes 35-minute flight between Slovakian airports

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

A flying car has completed its first inter-city flight in Slovakia, a milestone its creators claim is “turning science fiction into reality”.

Airlines and Aviation

UK ftart-up flypop’s CEO promises GBP99 flights to India

Joe Cusmano Jul 6, 2021

According to a report on Simply Flying, UK start-up airline flypop is eagerly planning its launch later this year.

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates And Etihad prepare for summer travel surge

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

Emirate’s airline is preparing for a summer travel surge over the next two weekends, despite growing concern over the delta coronavirus variant responsible for more than a third of…

Airlines and Aviation

The airline making money off grounded Boeing 737 MAX jets

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

Low-cost Airlines have a simple formula for success: fill as many seats as possible, fly as many hours as possible, and maintain a young fleet.

Singapore’s bold innovative plan to live with COVID and reopen

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

A nation known well to Australians is pushing out the pandemic with controversy. No quarantine, testing and no daily data.

Queensland deputy premier questions integrity of border closure

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

Queensland Deputy Premier Steven Miles yesterday publicly questioned why at least 30,000 foreigners have been allowed to fly into Australia during the pandemic, before calling for an…

Airlines and Aviation

Rex to lease two more B737 for further network expansion

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

Rex has announced plans to secure two additional Boeing 737NG (Next Generation) aircraft through a new lease agreement with a lessor.

Airlines and Aviation

United places massive order to buy 270 jets

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

United Airlines is overhauling its fleet with the biggest jetliner order in company history and an ambitious upgrade for its aircraft cabins, bolstering a push to appeal to more travellers…

TDM Guest Contributor

Airlines can recover by recognising the most valuable resources

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the aviation industry.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas expected to come out of the pandemic stronger than ever

Joe Cusmano Jul 2, 2021

While COVID has proven to be fatal for many of its competitors, Qantas is poised to soar even further.

Airlines and Aviation

Lufthansa will replace the phrase “ladies and gentlemen”

Joe Cusmano Jun 30, 2021

The Lufthansa Group will replace expressions like “ladies and gentleman” during onboard announcements in favour of gender-neutral greetings the airline confirmed on Wednesday.

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways introduces new business class suite

Joe Cusmano Jun 30, 2021

Qatar Airways will launch its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner passenger aircraft, featuring its eagerly awaited new Business Class Suite, on several key routes to Europe and Asia, it started…

Airlines and Aviation

Korean Air wins Air Transport World Airline of the Year Award

Joe Cusmano Jun 30, 2021

Korean Air has been announced the winner of one of the most prestigious honours in the aviation industry: Air Transport World’s (ATW) 2021 Airline of the Year.

Why so many people are fighting on airplanes

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

The number of people fighting in aircraft – attacking each other, abusing crew members orally and physically, and generally causing a scene – is higher than ever.

How the travel industry is working to restore demand

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

The travel and tourism industry must "provide the answers" in the recovery from COVID-19, but its fragmented approach still threatens to undermine progress.

Countries eager to reopen to travel as pandemic recedes

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Whilst Australia with its low vaccination rate is not in a hurry to open the international borders, around the globe, countries are taking different approaches for re-opening to travel after…

Vaccination Updates

Cathay Pacific tells crew to get vaccinated or risk their job

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Cathay Pacific told pilots and flight attendants on Thursday that their employment with the airline would be reviewed and could be terminated if they have not had a COVID-19 vaccine by…

Man jumps from moving plane after trying to breach cockpit

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

A man jumped from a moving plane at Los Angeles International Airport Friday night after an unsuccessful attempt to access the flight’s cockpit.

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Galactic receives FAA approval for commercial space trips

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Virgin Galactic has made history, becoming the first space liner to be certified by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to carry passengers on its spaceplanes.

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific forecasts reduced monthly cash burn in second half

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Cathay Pacific expects to reduce its cash burn to less than HK$1 billion (AU$169 million) a month in the second half of the year, its chief financial officer said.

Airlines and Aviation

Warning for five interstate Virgin flights

Joe Cusmano Jun 29, 2021

Passengers on five different flights between three states are being forced into isolation after a Virgin Australia cabin crew member tested positive to Covid-19.

Airlines and Aviation

US airline reclaims title as world’s largest airline

Joe Cusmano Jun 25, 2021

American Airlines has taken the pandemic as an opportunity to re-emerge as the world's largest airline, a title it has traded back and forth with competitors during the last few years as…

Airline sector poised for change post-COVID-19 pandemic

Joe Cusmano Jun 25, 2021

As they look beyond the pandemic, airlines need to grapple with five new realities—and devise strategies to adapt.

IATA warns testing costs may deter travellers

Joe Cusmano Jun 25, 2021

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on governments to ensure that high costs for Covid-19 testing do not put travel out of reach for individuals and families.

Sydney flights cancelled as states impose border restrictions

Joe Cusmano Jun 25, 2021

Sydney Airport was a ghost town yesterday morning as more than 90 flights arriving in the city have been cancelled today.

Airlines and Aviation

Flight attendant berates passengers who made job a ‘living hell’

Joe Cusmano Jun 24, 2021

At one point, a 22-year-old male passenger calls a female flight attendant "a fat gorilla" and hurls a vulgarity at her.

Airline industry is bouncing back particularly in the US

Joe Cusmano Jun 24, 2021

The news seems to be good for US airlines. After the negative impact due to the coronavirus pandemic, the airline industry steadily begins to recover.

IATA warns of potential airport chaos over vaccine passport

Joe Cusmano Jun 24, 2021

IATA has warned of potential airport chaos unless governments move quickly to adopt digital processes to manage travel health credentials (COVID-19 testing and vaccine certificates) and…

Airlines and Aviation

As capacity war continues, Jetstar starts Brisbane–Perth service

Joe Cusmano Jun 24, 2021

Jetstar will compete with rival Virgin and Qantas and launch five return services between Brisbane and Perth in time for the summer season.

Airlines and Aviation

American Airlines cancels flights due to shortage of staff

Joe Cusmano Jun 23, 2021

American Airlines cancelled more than 200 flights over the weekend due to staffing shortages and expects to cut more daily through July.

Airlines and Aviation

Delta CEO expects corporate travel back to pre-pandemic by July

Joe Cusmano Jun 23, 2021

The CEO of Delta Airlines Ed Bastian revealed that domestic travel could see a full recovery by end of the northern summer.

TDM Guest Contributor

IATA Economics’ shows differences of the operating conditions

Joe Cusmano Jun 23, 2021

Over the last months, the recovery of air passenger demand has been mainly driven by domestic markets that have mostly remained unaffected by travel restrictions.

Airlines and Aviation

Garuda Indonesia negotiates with lessors to return 50 aircrafts

Joe Cusmano Jun 23, 2021

Garuda Indonesia has shed more light on its operating circumstances, including on the skeletal fleet it is operating amid the coronavirus pandemic, as well as measures taken to cut costs.

Next bubble likely to be Singapore…

Joe Cusmano Jun 23, 2021

Scott Morrison met with Singapore's Lee Hsien Loong to discuss the travel bubble on his way to the G7 summit.

Airlines and Aviation

Airline Alliances urge universal travel standards

Joe Cusmano Jun 15, 2021

To facilitate the safe restart of international travel and restore the value contributed by travel and tourism to the world’s economy, the three global airline alliances oneworld, SkyTeam…

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific will close its Australian flight crew base

Joe Cusmano Jun 15, 2021

Cathay Pacific has confirmed it will close its Australian base in July. This follows news the Hong Kong-based airline will shut its Canada base.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas Club drops joining fee and offers status credits

Joe Cusmano Jun 15, 2021

Qantas is waiving the $99 Qantas Club joining fee, reducing annual renewal fees and putting up to 100 status credits on the table in an 'end of financial year' promotion for its Qantas Club…

Airlines and Aviation

Air New Zealand to establish crew base in Brisbane

Joe Cusmano Jun 15, 2021

Air New Zealand has extended its agreement with the Australian Government to operate flights between Norfolk Island and Australia from 30 August 2021 until the end of August 2023.

Travel between the US and UK moves closer to a comeback

Joe Cusmano Jun 14, 2021

After more than a year of stringent travel restrictions between the U.S. and the U.K., President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Boris Johnson have agreed to work toward reopening transatlantic…

Reopening updates

Proposed travel bubble will revive international student sector

Joe Cusmano Jun 14, 2021

A proposed travel bubble between Australia and Singapore will revive the international student industry.

Airlines and Aviation

Rex revises forecast to full-year loss

Joe Cusmano Jun 14, 2021

Rex said on Wednesday (9 June) that it is now forecasting a full-year loss of A$15 million due to ongoing lockdowns in various parts of Australia due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia has grounded 90% of fleet amid COVID-19 surge in Malaysia

Joe Cusmano Jun 14, 2021

AirAsia Group has grounded around 90% of its fleet of more than 200 planes across Asia due to the resurgence of COVID-19 outbreaks, an executive at its Malaysia unit said on Wednesday.

Airline CEOs unite to urge reopening of transatlantic routes

Joe Cusmano Jun 11, 2021

The CEOs of every airline that flies transatlantic passenger services between the UK and the USA have joined forces with Heathrow Airport and other travel industry CEOs in urging both…

Airlines and Aviation

Pilots in India seek payment for colleagues who died of Covid

Joe Cusmano Jun 11, 2021

Now, the country’s pilots, especially those working for Air India, the debt-ridden airline controlled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, are asking for better compensation for the…

TDM Guest Contributor

Western Sydney airport unveils final terminal design

Joe Cusmano Jun 11, 2021

Sustainability and energy efficiency are at the core of the airport as CEO Simon Hickey reveals details of the $5.3 billion project.

Qantas creates ‘whacker’ to scare reptiles away from parked A380s

Joe Cusmano Jun 11, 2021

Qantas has developed a piece of technology dubbed a “wheel whacker” to help stop snakes and scorpions boarding planes it has parked due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Airlines and Aviation

Air Canada’s senior executives return 2020 bonuses

Joe Cusmano Jun 10, 2021

Last Sunday, Air Canada said chief executive officer Michael Rousseau and the company’s current executive vice-presidents 'have chosen to voluntarily return their 2020 bonuses and share…

Reopening updates

Heathrow Airport reopens terminal 3 for red list arrivals

Joe Cusmano Jun 10, 2021

London’s Heathrow Airport has reopened Terminal 3 as a dedicated facility for all arrivals from red list countries into the UK.

Vietnam faces Covid surge, tightens entry restrictions

Joe Cusmano Jun 10, 2021

Vietnam, which is coping with its worst outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, announced new restrictions for its largest city on Sunday, a day after its health minister said a “very…

Airlines and Aviation

NSW’s AUD50m bid to make project sunrise a Sydney-only venture

Joe Cusmano Jun 10, 2021

The NSW government secretly offered $50 million to Qantas in exchange for the business making Project Sunrise a Sydney exclusive for five years and retaining its base in the state.

Airlines and Aviation

US airlines are getting ready to re-hire again

Joe Cusmano Jun 9, 2021

In the US the fast and well organised vaccination campaign is starting to show the airlines and travel industry are returning to normal and the two words being repeated at most of the…

TDM Guest Contributor

Airbus CEO expects business travel to recover

Joe Cusmano Jun 9, 2021

Airbus Chief Executive Guillaume Faury expects business air travel eventually to return to close to pre-pandemic levels and airlines are devoting the same space to business class seats as…

Europe’s vaccine “Green Pass”: How does it work?

Joe Cusmano Jun 9, 2021

Part of the world has started to reopen, the COVID-19 vaccine will be a new entry requirement for some destinations and travel providers.

TDM Guest Contributor

Heathrow showcases sustainable aviation fuel

Joe Cusmano Jun 9, 2021

Heathrow has incorporated sustainable aviation fuel into its operations ahead of the G7 Summit.

Airlines and Aviation

Alitalia newco to launch ops early 3Q21, plans asset tenders

Joe Cusmano Jun 8, 2021

ITA – Italia Trasporto Aereo, the newco Alitalia, must commence flight operations this summer, by June or July, Italy’s minister of economic development, Giancarlo Giorgetti, told the…

Airlines loyalty programs as lifelines

Joe Cusmano Jun 8, 2021

Some US carriers have seen their loyalty programs in a new light as collateral to raise billions in loans.

Vaccination Updates

United requires all new hires to be vaccinated

Joe Cusmano Jun 8, 2021

United Airlines has announced it will require all new external hires to prove they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad might already need to give its crew the booster shot

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

The world’s first COVID-19 vaccinated airline might already need to give its pilots and flight attendants booster shots.

Airlines will be forced to aim at long and thin routes

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

A trend among airlines of phasing out four-engine widebody aircraft in favour of smaller, more fuel-efficient two-engine aircraft, including even narrow bodies, has accelerated.

Why there are so many unruly passengers on planes

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

The FAA usually sees 100 – 150 cases of bad inflight behaviour filed with them each year.

MSC set to launch giant new cruise ship

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

MSC Cruises is preparing to launch the massive new vessel it has on order for delivery in late 2022, MSC World Europa would be 22 decks high, four decks higher than the current size leader…

Passenger boards wrong flight and takes 3000km detour

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

When Gemma Cargin boarded the EasyJet plane in Manchester, UK, she decided to have a quick nap. After all, it was only a short 40-minute flight to Belfast where her mother was waiting to…

TDM Guest Contributor

On your next overseas flight, you may wait 8 hours at the airport

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is pushing for countries to adopt standardized digital COVID-19 screening processes at their airports.

Vaccination Updates

COVID-vaccinated Australians could be allowed to travel soon

Joe Cusmano Jun 7, 2021

A pilot program for immunised people to leave and return under relaxed restrictions could begin soon, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt tells colleagues.

Thinking to travel? What to expect with the current situation

Joe Cusmano Jun 3, 2021

For those considering a return to travel, here is what to expect in the COVID travel era. To be blunt a lot has changed.

Airlines and Aviation

Airlines are working to customise prices for each customer

Joe Cusmano Jun 3, 2021

Airlines are evaluating a possibility and aim for a quicker recovery from the devastation the pandemic has caused. Based on your purchase, travel, and customer history you will get a…

Vaccination Updates

One year of free Qantas flights and more as vaccination incentive

Joe Cusmano Jun 3, 2021

Qantas has announced that it will offer 10 'mega prizes' of a year of free flights for Australians who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the end of 2021.

Airlines and Aviation

United targets mid-July to get back to pre-Covid activities

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2021

United Airlines sees big for the coming northern summer and is adding 400 flights to its July schedule and increasing services to now available European destinations with the aim to offer…

Airlines and Aviation

Lufthansa orders 10 brand-new Airbus and Boeing wide-body jets

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2021

Lufthansa has announced that it will order ten brand-new wide-body jets to support its long-haul network, five Airbus A350-900 and five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

Vaccination Updates

Airlines will require staff to be vaccinated or face consequences

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2021

Brisbane-based Alliance Airlines is making COVID-19 vaccinations compulsory for all employees.

Reopening updates

Scott Morrison says pacific travel bubble is “a real possibility”

Joe Cusmano Jun 2, 2021

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has hinted at expanding the trans-Tasman travel bubble to include other Pacific Islands after touching down in New Zealand for talks with his NZ counterpart…

Airlines and Aviation

Korean Air receives ‘5-Star COVID Safety Rating’ from Skytrax

Joe Cusmano Jun 1, 2021

Korean Air has been certified as a 5-star COVID-safe airline by Skytrax, becoming one of a few global airlines to achieve the recognition for COVID-19 safety standards.

Reopening updates

All you need to know on a Fiji and Pacific Islands travel bubble

Joe Cusmano Jun 1, 2021

For over a year, we have heard whispers and rumours that Australia could potentially open up a travel bubble with neighbouring countries like New Zealand, Singapore, Fiji and the rest of the…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas CEO makes a bold prediction as domestic demand soars

Joe Cusmano Jun 1, 2021

Qantas says while the COVID-19 lockdown in Victoria will affect its business, it's still seeing strong demand in other parts of the nation.

Travel numbers rise in the US as Americans go on holiday

Joe Cusmano May 31, 2021

Americans going on holidays in near-record numbers at the start of the Memorial Day weekend, as their eagerness to break free from coronavirus confinement overcame higher prices for flights,…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates planning to increase capacity to 70% by year-end

Joe Cusmano May 31, 2021

Emirates has so far recovered 120 passenger destinations, despite continued Covid restrictions.

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines posts its first loss in 48 years

Joe Cusmano May 31, 2021

The year that airline business was decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore Airlines, reported a record full-year net loss of SGD 4.27 billion (USD 3.21 billion).

TDM Guest Contributor

Qantas ponders free flights and points as vaccination incentive

Joe Cusmano May 31, 2021

Qantas is considering giving free flight vouchers or frequent flyer points to people who have had Covid-19 shots, joining a growing list of businesses offering vaccination incentives to…

Airlines and Aviation

Flight attendant in the US loses two teeth in attack by passenger

Joe Cusmano May 28, 2021

US authorities have charged a 28-year-old woman with felony battery after an attack on a Southwest Airlines plane in which a flight attendant lost two teeth and suffered other injuries to…

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin Velocity and 7-Eleven announce loyalty partnership

Joe Cusmano May 28, 2021

More than 10 million Velocity Frequent Flyer members will now earn Velocity Points whenever they shop for fuel, food, coffee, and convenience items at 7-Eleven from today.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas passengers get sky-high view of Supermoon eclipse

Joe Cusmano May 28, 2021

From staying up all night to camping out on rooftops, people go to extreme lengths to catch a glimpse of a supermoon, particularly when it comes with a total lunar eclipse.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Virgin cancel flights in and out of Melbourne

Joe Cusmano May 28, 2021

Dozens of flights to and from Melbourne today have been cancelled following a rise in COVID-19 case numbers.

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates wins record 8th consecutive “Best Airline Worldwide”

Joe Cusmano May 27, 2021

Emirates has been voted ‘Best Airline Worldwide’ for the eighth consecutive time by the Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2021.

Vaccination Updates

Vaccinated frequent flyers could win free flights for a year

Joe Cusmano May 27, 2021

United Airlines loyalty program members will have the chance to enter the airline’s ‘Your Shot to Fly’ sweepstakes by uploading their vaccination records.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas adds seven new routes and puts Dreamliner on domestic

Joe Cusmano May 27, 2021

Qantas has announced a further expansion of its ever-growing domestic network. The Australian airline confirmed start dates for seven new domestic routes.

Airline travel in the U.S. numbers closer to 2019

Joe Cusmano May 26, 2021

It’s no longer valid to compare current daily airline travel numbers to what happened on the exact date a year ago when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its most merciless.

Airlines and Aviation

British Airways may has the key to unlock the travel world

Joe Cusmano May 26, 2021

Once international travel resumes, mandatory Covid-19 testing will be required to enter some countries even if you have been vaccinated.

Vaccination Updates

Expect airlines and cruise lines to require proof of vaccination

Joe Cusmano May 26, 2021

In the absence of federally mandated vaccine passports, Dr Anthony Fauci expects multiple U.S businesses to impose their own requirements for customers to show proof of vaccination to…

Medical & Health Tourism

Thailand targets medical tourism

Joe Cusmano May 26, 2021

Thailand is attempting extremely hard to reboot tourism however so far it hasn’t quite worked, particularly with the recent rise in Covid-19 transmission.

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas and Singapore Airlines diverging fortunes show disparities

Joe Cusmano May 24, 2021

Qantas and Singapore Airlines are travelling in opposite directions when it comes to the coronavirus crisis, with the former emerging strongly thanks to its buoyant home market and the…

Airlines and Aviation

Qantas plans to have six A380s flying again in 2023

Joe Cusmano May 24, 2021

Qantas has highlighted future plans that include the return of six Airbus A380 into operation by the end of 2023 as demand for outbound and inbound grows back to pre-Covid levels.

Airlines and Aviation

“Some people may die,” Virgin Australia boss’ insensitive words

Joe Cusmano May 24, 2021

Virgin Australia is still battling a PR nightmare after Jayne Hrdlicka the airline CEO made a speech at the Queensland University of Technology using the controversial statement “some people…

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