Airlines, Airports and Airliners 21 March 2024
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This Week in Airliner, Airports and Airlines.
Enhancing the cross-border transferability of aircraft and compliance with the Cape Town Convention.
Maun to become Ethiopian's second Botswana destination.
FAA rolls out new technology for controllers to improve surface safety at the nation's airports.
Dallas Love Field Airport clinches top honour as the 2023 ASQ Award.
Winner for Best Airport of 15 to 25 million passengers in North America.
A Passenger on an Alaska Airlines tries to open the cockpit door three times.
Washington's airports set new passenger record.
Ethiopian hosts a bold celebration of march 8 honouring women's contributions in the aviation industry.
Worldwide Incidents and accidents.
Bonus video - Cliffy Pike RIP and the Giles 202.
Recognizing the importance of harmonized regulations, practices, and streamlined processes in the context of cross-border aircraft transactions, a new agreement between the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Aviation Working Group (AWG) will facilitate capacity building initiatives for States, particularly in developing States, to further enhance safety and efficiency in these processes.
This work will focus on the critical areas of cross-border transferability of aircraft and compliance with the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment and its Aircraft Protocol (the Cape Town Convention). It builds upon longstanding cooperation between the two organizations.
The Cape Town Convention is an essential instrument in promoting asset-based financing and leasing in the aviation sector, contributing to reducing financing costs and increasing access to capital for airlines and aircraft operators worldwide. It does so through a rules-based system designed to provide greater legal certainty. To help realize these benefits, this collaboration includes educational work relating to the requirements to implement and comply with the Convention.
This new agreement reflects the two organizations' joint commitment to supporting States in unlocking the sustainable development benefits of aviation by enhancing the efficiency of aircraft-backed financial transactions.
MAUN TO BECOME ETHIOPIAN'S SECOND BOTSWANA DESTINATION
Ethiopian Airlines Group, one of the fastest-growing global airline brands and Africa's largest airline, would like to announce that it will launch a thrice weekly service between Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Maun, Botswana as of June 10, 2024. Maun will be Ethiopian's second destination in Botswana after Gaborone, which has been served since 2016.
The new thrice weekly service will be operational per the below schedule:
Addis Ababa (ADD) Maun (MUB) Ndola (NLA) Addis Ababa (ADD): on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday
The new route will provide convenient and seamless connectivity for travellers from Ethiopia and other parts of Africa to the popular tourist destination of Maun, which is the gateway to the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest inland deltas.
Ethiopian champions the largest network operating to more than 60 destinations in the continent. Ethiopian Airlines managed to establish a convenient intra- Africa and global connections via its main hub in Addis Ababa, playing its part in the growth of the aviation industry in Africa.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the global collaborative platform Pharma.Aero have joined forces to strengthen IATA's Certification for the Excellence in Pharmaceutical Handling (CEIV Pharma) program, the globally recognized certification for excellence in pharmaceutical-product handling.
Over a two-year period, the two organizations conducted a thorough study of the CEIV Pharma program, involving certified entities, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and professionals within the air logistics sector. The findings of this comprehensive study were published in a White Paper.
This project identified a number of opportunities within the program, including: Building awareness: increasing engagement with authorities to ensure ongoing integration of global best practices into the program. Continuous improvements of the certification process: training modules, checklist layout and Independent Validator qualifications to ensure a strong foundation for the future growth of the certification. Increase visibility of IATA CEIV Pharma within the life science manufacturing sector. Expand network to make it more accessible to smaller enterprises and in underserved markets. Enhance IATA ONE Source, an industry platform for validated aviation capability and infrastructure information to enable integration with other platforms.
Trevor Caswell, Chairman of Pharma.Aero, lauded the collective efforts of Pharma.Aero members participating in the 2-year project. "As a leading advocate for excellence in pharmaceutical logistics, Pharma.Aero leverages the collective expertise of our global community to drive innovation and best practices in the industry. We commend all our members for their time and dedication to this project. Their contributions were decisive in getting first-hand experiences to accurately assess the CEIV Pharma certification and identify opportunities for enhancement", said Caswell. "Together, as Pharma.Aero, we are driving positive change in pharmaceutical logistics to better serve the needs of patients globally", concluded Trevor Caswell.
About Pharma.Aero
Founded in 2016, as a cross-industry collaboration platform, Pharma.Aero expanded rapidly to over 70 Life Science and MedTech manufacturers, cargo pharma-certified communities and other logistics stakeholders. Over the years, the organization has matured into an industry thought leader by developing cutting-edge projects, providing insights, and addressing new trends, thus fuelling the changes needed for tomorrow's Life Science and MedTech logistics strategies.
Pharma.Aero is also co-founder and organizer of the annual International Pharma Logistics Masterclass, a unique program that brings together industry executives, experts, policymakers and international academics for a knowledge exchange experience of immense value. This year's edition of the PLMC takes place in Dallas Fort Worth, from 29 September to 3 October.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced today it is launching a new surface safety tool, called Approach Runway Verification (ARV), at air traffic control towers across the nation to improve safety at airports. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is the latest tower to start using the safety technology this week.
ARV provides controllers with visual and audible alerts if an approaching aircraft is lined up to land on the wrong airport surface, or even the wrong airport.
ARV is currently installed at towers that service:
Austin (AUS)
Lincoln Tower (LNK)
Elton Hensley (FTT)
Lansing (LAN)
DuPage (DPA)
Chicago Executive (PWK)
Tallahassee (TLH)
Cedar Rapids (CID)
Branson West Municipal (FWB)
Gerald Ford International (GRR)
Elkhart Municipal (EKM)
South Bend (SBN)
M. Graham Clark Downtown Airport (PLK)
The agency will deploy ARV at other facilities across the nation throughout the rest of the year and into 2025.
ARV is one of the three surface situational awareness solutions that make up the FAA's fast-tracked surface safety portfolio. The other tools are the Runway Incursion Device (RID) and the Surface Awareness Initiative (SAI). These technologies are agile, efficient and cost-effective.
RID is a memory aid for controllers and provides additional situational awareness of occupied or closed runways. RID provides an audible and visual alert to controllers when a runway is not available for departing or landing aircraft.
SAI leverages cost-effective, commercially available technologies that display surface traffic to controllers at airports that do not have a surface surveillance tool.
Quickly developing and deploying these technologies is just one of the many actions the FAA is taking to enhance safety and eliminate serious close calls following the Safety Call to Action and release of the Independent National Airspace System Safety Review Team report last year. The FAA has also taken action by: Increasing air traffic controller hiring, surpassing our goal of hiring 1,500 new controllers in 2023, and hiring 1,800 in 2024. Enhancing the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative to hire more candidates who can begin facility training immediately upon graduation. Deploying upgraded tower simulator systems in 95 facilities across the country by the end of 2025. Holding regular runway safety action team meetings at airports across the country and investing millions of dollars for runway lighting and surface improvements at large, medium and small airports.
Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) proudly announces its triumphant recognition as the Best Airport of 15 to 25 million passengers in North America for 2023. The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, a global benchmarking program acknowledging the airport's unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional passenger experience, conferred the prestigious accolade.
The ASQ program, developed and administered by Airports Council International (ACI) World in collaboration with leading travel technology company Amadeus, employs a meticulous and scientific methodology to measure and benchmark airport customer experience worldwide. This recognition underscores DAL's dedication to prioritizing passenger satisfaction and excellence in service delivery.
Patrick Carreno, Director of the Department of Aviation, expressed his enthusiasm about this notable achievement, stating, "Dallas Love Field is honoured to receive the 2023 ASQ Award for Best Airport in our category. This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering top-tier service to the millions of passengers who choose our airport. We take pride in providing a seamless and memorable experience, and this award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire airport community."
Luis Felipe de Oliveira, ACI World Director General, applauded the significant growth of the ASQ program, acknowledging the contributions of member airports and the nearly 600,000 passengers who provided valuable feedback. He emphasized that the future success of airports relies on an unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience, particularly in an era of rapidly evolving passenger expectations.
As DAL revels in being named the Best Airport in its category in North America, this achievement reinforces its commitment to providing a memorable and seamless experience for the millions of passengers it serves annually.
The flight deck was locked down for the rest of the flight. Flightradar24 data showed that the pilots never squawked 7700, which would have indicated a general onboard emergency.
The passenger has been charged with violating section 46504 of the US Code. It includes assaulting or intimidating flight crew or flight attendants of the aircraft, which can also interfere with the performance of their duties, and could come with imprisonment for more than 20 years and also a fine. Intent to disrupt a pilot or cabin crew's abilities to perform their duties also carries the same penalty.
The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority hosted 50.6 million total passengers in 2023, setting a new travel record at Reagan National and Dulles International airports. This achievement was driven by strong demand at both airports, resulting in a new passenger record at Reagan National and an international passenger record at Dulles International.
"Setting a new record is a remarkable accomplishment that can be credited to continuing recovery from the COVID pandemic and the hard work of our airport team and their partners," said Jack Potter, Airports Authority president and CEO. "We are not slowing down as upgrades continue for our customers at Reagan National, as well as a new concourse at Dulles International. Our team thrives on recruiting new airline service and finding new ways to provide an outstanding travel experience while planning to meet the region's long-term transportation needs."
graph showing total passenger count 2014-2023 for MWAA airports
Reagan National 2023 Results
Reagan National broke its all-time passenger traffic record with 25.5 million passengers in 2023. This count exceeded the previous record in 2022 by 6.2 percent, despite flight reductions to accommodate a runway rehabilitation project and capacity limitations at New York City airports. To further improve the passenger experience, DCA Reimagined is underway to upgrade Terminal 2 restroom facilities, enhance shopping and dining options and create innovative spaces to relax at the gates and throughout the terminals.
Dulles International 2023 Results
As the fastest growing international gateway airport in the United States, Dulles International raised the bar in 2023 with 9.3 million international passengers - a new record that exceeded 2022's international activity by 26.9 percent. Combined with domestic activity, the airport logged 25.1 million passengers for the year. The upward trend can be credited to a strong resurgence in travel demand that led to eight new airlines launching nonstop flights to destinations around the globe over the past two years. With new flights announced for 2024, this brings the airport's total to 42 airlines and 139 destinations (80 domestic, 59 international).
graph showing international passenger growth at IAD from 2014-2023
Growth is expected to continue in 2024, including new service on:
American to Bermuda
American to Hyannis, Massachusetts
AeroMexico to Mexico City
Allegiant to Punta Gorda, Florida
Southern Airways Express to Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Southwest to Phoenix
Sun Country to Minneapolis
Swiss International to Zurich
United to Anchorage
United to Vancouver
United Express to Philadelphia, Harrisburg, State College and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania
In addition, Lufthansa plans to upgrade its Munich flight on June 1 to the Airbus A380, the world's largest passenger aircraft.
The airline commemorated the day at Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, honouring women's contribution in the aviation industry. The vibrant celebration took place in the presence of high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, honourable guests alongside the incredible women of Ethiopian Airlines, with the theme "Empowering Women: Connecting Africa."
Celebrating women's excellence at Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines stated, "I would like to proudly acknowledge the invaluable role of women in driving the success of Ethiopian Airlines. As staunch advocates of gender equality, we're honoured to have women professionals excelling in every facet of our operations, showcasing remarkable performance and dedication in their line of work. Today, we shine a spotlight on these trailblazers who are not only shaping the legacy of Ethiopian Airlines but also inspiring future generations of women in aviation. As is our custom, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our all-women-operated flight to London to grace the day."
Zenebework G/Tsadik, Group VP Human Capital Management in her part remarked, "Ethiopian Airlines is an equal opportunity employer. We consistently prioritize inclusive work environment that empowers women to make significant contributions in various roles within the company and we strongly believe in promoting equal gender opportunity at every level."
The captain of this year's all women functioned flight, Captain Mrs. Kalkidan Girma stated, "This all-women-functioned flight initiative not only empowers women but also sends a powerful message about gender equality. We want to inspire future generations of female aviators and we continue to lead the way in promoting gender equality within the aviation industry."
"As women take part in every aspect of our aviation field, we are immensely honored to contribute to this milestone. With this dedicated flight, we celebrate the indispensable role women play in our aviation group and the broader industry to ensure that Ethiopian Airlines remains competitive in a dynamic global market," stated Mrs. Rahel Assefa, Group VP Marketing.
Ethiopian Airlines Group boasts women professionals in various areas of its operations including male dominated line of works such as pilot, aircraft technician and more. The airline has also been operating all women functioned flights to different parts of the world since 2015, showing the professionalism and capability in women.
USA, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, MN (MSP/KMSP): An American Airlines flight AA458 suffered a bird strike on approach for landing. The aircraft landed safely but became disabled on the runway due to NLG damage and fluid loss. Passengers deplaned normally after aircraft was towed to the gate. Runway was closed for clean-up of debris and fluids.
Antigua and Barbuda, near Antigua International Airport (ANU): An InterCaribbean Airways ATR 42-500, suffered an engine failure on departure from Antigua-V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU). The flight crew shut down engine no.1 and made an emergency landing back at ANU, 14 minutes after take-off.
Pacific Ocean over the Tasman Sea: A LATAM Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, CC-BGG, entered a sudden descent while cruising over the Tasman Sea. The flight continued to Auckland Airport (AKL), New Zealand. Local media reported that over 50 occupants were injured, and twelve were sent to hospitals. Media are reporting that a flight attendant hit a seat switch in the cockpit that caused the pilot to move forward, pushing into the control column which send the aircraft into a dive.
Cliffy Pike RIP and the Giles 202
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