Overview
QZ8501 loss highlights deficiencies
in Indonesian aviation
Following the crash of Indonesia AirAsia flight QZ8501 and subsequent revelations of flight scheduling contraventions, Indonesian authorities are clamping down on a number of local carriers in an effort to boost safety and transparency in the world’s second-fastest growing aviation market.
At press time, Indonesia’s transport ministry said it had suspended 61 domestic flight routes operated by national flag carrier Garuda Indonesia and five budget airlines, including Indonesia AirAsia, because they did not have the required permits. Read More »
Airline News
Al Baker on his Indian intentions
Qatar Airways chief Akbar Al Baker, was once again in the news in the last week as he called on Indian leaders to put aside politics and open up the country’s skies to foreign carriers. Read More »
Airline News
Air India, which made the headlines last month when it transpired that only nine of its 370 daily departures are profitable, reported a surprise net profit of 146 million rupees (US$2.36 million) for the month of December, driven by a low crude oil price and growth in both passenger and cargo revenue, official sources have told The Times of India. Read More »
Airline News
Vietnam Airlines pilots protest salaries
The disparity between the salaries of local pilots and those hired overseas by Vietnam Airlines is being seen as the main cause for discontent among the carrier’s more than 600 Vietnamese cockpit crew that has resulted in 117 pilots taking sick leave between December 30 and January 4, with only 10 providing certification, and 30 resignations. Read More »
Airline News
Airbus launches A321neo, defends A380
Airbus has officially launched the A321neo with 97 tons maximum take-off weight (MTOW) after securing the first commitment from Air Lease Corporation (ALC), also the launch customer for the A330neo. Read More »
Airline News
Scoot targets China, tweaks links with Tigerair, Virgin Australia
Singapore-based low-cost carrier (LCC), Scoot, is significantly boosting its network in its key Australian market with a new interline agreement with Virgin Australia. Read More »
Financial Round Up
Analysts are predicting yield declines, and subsequent cost cuts, at Cathay Pacific Airways’ passenger and cargo operations in financial year 2014-15. Read More »
People
American Airlines appoints new Hong Kong boss
Russ Fortson has taken up the position of Director Asia Operations for American Airlines, based in Hong Kong, responsible for airport operations in Hong Kong, Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai. Read More »
Short Takes
AIRLINES: Guangzhou-based budget carrier 9 Air has started operations, initially with a daily Guangzhou – Wenzhou – Harbin rotation using B737-800 aircraft. The private carrier owned by Juneyao Airlines has 50 B737 aircraft worth $6 billion at list prices on order. Read More »
Overheard
Cathay Pacific drops premium economy on Mid-east routes
Cathay Pacific Airways is understood to be cancelling premium economy class on all services to the Middle East because it was unable to sell enough seats in the market This Week in Asia-Pacific Aviation has been told. Read More »
