A Sky-High triple salute: Emirates celebrates South Africa with spectacular, first-ever A380 flypast.
IATA - Passenger Demand Up 8% in July.
Empowering the next generation: Ethiopian Airlines' STEM initiative marks another year of triumph.
Boeing and Nigeria to collaborate in advancing country's aviation ecosystem.
DFW Airport announces start of transformational work on $9 billion capital plan with reimagining of Terminal C.
Bombardier's Global 7500 business jet blazes forward, sets more than 50 speed records in under 50 weeks.
The first capsule hotel in the Baltics, Kepler Club, has opened at Riga Airport.
KLM takes delivery of its first Airbus A321neo aircraft.
Worldwide incidents and accidents.
Bonus Video - AirVenture 2024 Istanbul Türkiye to Chicago USA
A SKY-HIGH TRIPLE SALUTE: EMIRATES CELEBRATES SOUTH AFRICA WITH SPECTACULAR, FIRST-EVER A380 FLYPAST
Emirates, the world's largest international airline, takes to the skies to celebrate its longstanding and ongoing commitment to South Africa, with the country's first ever A380 flypast. Running up the score, the remarkable low-level aerial showcase also marks Emirates' first ever flypast in Africa and the first international airline to execute such a feat in South Africa.
Honouring its shared love for rugby with over 62,000 enthusiastic spectators, Emirates flew the world's largest commercial passenger aircraft over Emirates Airline Park, just before kick-off of the much-anticipated Springboks vs All Blacks test match. Flying at an altitude of just 500 feet above the ground, the iconic Emirates double-decker aircraft saluted rugby and aviation fans, in its latest signature livery.
The Emirates A380 took off from O.R. Tambo International Airport at 16:00, travelling at a speed of 140 kts, reaching the stadium at 16:58, perfectly timed to follow South Africa and New Zealand's national anthems. The impressive aerial feat follows months of thorough and cross-functional planning between stakeholders including multiple teams at Emirates, South African Civil Aviation Authority, Airports Company South Africa, Emirates pilots, Flight Operation Managers and Air Traffic Controllers working together with the Emirates Lions team. The teams worked together across every element of the aerial display, taking into account air traffic patterns at different times of the day with different weather and wind conditions.
UAE National Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri, A380 Deputy Chief Pilot commanded the flight, joined by Captain Khalid Binsultan and Captain Abdalla Al Hammadi, both Technical Pilots for the Airbus A380 and Captain Richard Fiess, A380 Captain. Captain Mubarak has flown with Emirates for 19 years and has completed over 7,200 hours in the cockpit of the iconic A380. He has commanded similar flypasts for Emirates, including UAE National Day celebrations for the past four years and headlining the commercial aircraft flypast formation at the 2023 Dubai Air Show. He also participated in the iconic flight promoting Expo 2020, which saw an A380 fly around an Emirates Cabin Crew at the very top of the Burj Khalifa; the unprecedented formation flight with the Jetman team back in 2015; and with the Red Arrows in 2022.
Afzal Parambil, Country Manager of Southern Africa, Emirates said, “Tonight's record-setting flypast is a powerful display of our unwavering commitment to South Africa. It represents not just an achievement of technical excellence, but encapsulates our ongoing partnership with key stakeholders in South Africa, including the Civil Aviation Authority, O.R. Tambo International Airport, Emirates Lions and, of course, the strong relationship we've built with our customers and travel partners here over the years. For almost three decades, we've unlocked an array of choices for our customers, by offering an outstanding on-ground and in-flight experience coupled with seamless global connectivity, and we're not slowing down now. We look forward to the next 30 years, and beyond, of serving South Africa and spotlighting its many attractions to the world.”
Pieter Burger, Ellis Park Stadium Managing Director, said, “The flyover has become such a pre-match entertainment staple at the iconic Emirates Airline Park. First witnessed in 1995 at the final of the international rugby showpiece where the South African national rugby team was victorious, to have had this moment tonight against the very same opposition was a thrilling experience for fans watching at the stadium and at home.
We are extremely grateful to our long-time partner Emirates who were pivotal towards the success of this project, together with all other role players involved. From a lasting memory perspective, this will certainly be up there for those who had the privilege to witness the moment.”
The flypast also marks the return of Emirates' second A380 service on the Dubai-Johannesburg route, enhancing more customer choice and travel options with Emirates' iconic onboard products and world-class service. EK761 departs Dubai at 04.05, landing in Johannesburg at 10:15, with the return flight, EK762, departing Johannesburg at 13.25 and touching down in Dubai at 23.45, perfectly timed for onward connections to key destinations in the Far East, Europe and the Middle East.
IATA - PASSENGER DEMAND UP 8% IN JULY
Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 8.0% compared to July 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 7.4% year-on-year. The July load factor was 86.0% (+0.5ppt compared to July 2023). There was no significant negative demand impact from the CrowdStrike IT outage on 19 July.
International demand rose 10.1% compared to July 2023. Capacity was up 10.5% year-on-year and the load factor fell to 85.9% (-0.3ppt compared to July 2023).
Domestic demand rose 4.8% compared to July 2023. Capacity was up 2.8% year-on-year and the load factor was 86.1% (+1.7ppt compared to July 2023).
“July was another positive month. In fact, passenger demand hit an all-time high for the industry and in all regions except Africa, despite significant disruption caused by the CrowdStrike IT outage,” said Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
“The winding down of the peak northern summer season is a reminder of how much people depend on flying. As the mix of travelers shift from leisure to business, aviation's many roles are evident-reuniting families, enabling exploration, and powering commerce. People need and want to fly. And they are doing that in great numbers. Load factors are at the practicable maximum. But persistent supply chain bottlenecks have made deploying the capacity to meet the need to travel more challenging. As much of the world returns from vacation, there is an urgent call for manufacturers and suppliers to resolve their supply chain issues so that air travel remains accessible and affordable to all those who rely on it,” said Walsh.
Regional Breakdown - International Passenger Markets
All regions showed strong growth for international passenger markets in July 2024 compared to July 2023, with signs that many markets are returning to long-term growth trends after the post-pandemic bounce back.
Asia-Pacific airlines' growth remained strong, with a 19.1% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 20.3% year-on-year and the load factor was 83.8% (-0.8ppt compared to July 2023). Most Asia routes have yet to exceed 2019 levels, with the exception of the Asia-Middle East route.
European carriers saw an 8.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 8.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 87.5% (+0.2ppt compared to July 2023). In terms of major international routes, the Europe-Asia route expanded fastest, reflecting this is still to surpass 2019 levels.
Middle Eastern carriers saw a 5.8% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 5.5% year-on-year and the load factor was 84.1% (+0.3ppt compared to July 2023).
North American carriers saw a 5.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 6.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 89.4% (-0.8 ppt compared to July 2023), the highest among regions.
Latin American airlines saw a 13.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 15.7% year-on-year. The load factor was 87.5% (-1.7ppt compared to July 2023). While hurricane Beryl had a strong localized impact in parts of the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico and southern United States, this did not significantly dampen demand region-wide.
African airlines saw a 7.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 6.7% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 74.3% (+0.5ppt compared to July 2023).
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION: ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES' STEM INITIATIVE MARKS ANOTHER YEAR OF TRIUMPH
Ethiopian Airlines, the leading aviation group in Africa, alongside Boeing and Think Young, are strengthening their commitment to STEM education for Ethiopian and this year, 28 high school students in grade 11, with an impressive 50% female participation, successfully completed the second edition of the STEM School program, designed to equip them with critical skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
The program, which spans three years, targets underserved youth from various regions across Ethiopia, fostering their academic growth and interest in higher education. The selection process, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, ensures that the most promising students are given the opportunity to excel.
“By investing in the education of our youth, we are investing in the future of Ethiopia," stated Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines. "This program empowers the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers by providing them with the essential skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. We are proud to witness the growth and accomplishments of these bright young minds and are confident they will contribute significantly to Ethiopia's future.”
Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa and Central Asia, commented: “The STEM School's meticulously designed training program delivers a life-changing experience for students. It combines Boeing's global expertise in aerospace, Ethiopian Airlines' legacy as Africa's leading carrier, and Think Young's innovative approach to education. The program helps feed the talent pipeline supporting Ethiopia's booming aviation sector and the broader economy. We are excited to see how these young minds will shape the future of aviation in Africa”.
Delila Kidanu, Director of ThinkYoung Africa, said: “Returning to Ethiopia to meet new students and reconnect with students from last year has been incredibly fulfilling. We are happy to support the future generation of STEM champions in Ethiopia and Africa. We look forward to partnering again with Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines next year and further developing this innovative program for and with young people”.
During the program, attendees were immersed in the core principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and enhanced their digital proficiency through learning coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Concurrently, they honed vital soft skills, including collaborative teamwork and advanced problem-solving abilities.
Bethel Teshome Sebsibe, a 17-year-old STEM School student, shared her impression of the program: “Thanks to the STEM School, I have learned things that I never thought I was interested in. The relationship we have built with the students and teachers is helping me learn and improve.”
The STEM School, hosted by Ethiopian Aviation University and leveraging Ethiopian Airlines' specialized knowledge, provided participants with exclusive access to the airline's cargo, as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations, offering a tangible perspective on the aviation sector. The initiative is set to continue, welcoming a new cohort of Ethiopian students in the following year.
BOEING AND NIGERIA TO COLLABORATE IN ADVANCING COUNTRY'S AVIATION ECOSYSTEM.
Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the West African country's aviation sector. Africa continues to be a promising market with its overall air-traffic growth forecasted well above the average global growth rate over the next 20 years.
“We are delighted to enter into this important, 'working together' agreement with Boeing which will benefit Nigerian airlines and enable the development of our country's civil aviation ecosystem,” said Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Festus Keyamo. “As Africa's largest economy and with the continent's largest population, Nigeria has a lot to offer in driving the growth of aviation in Africa. The support to be provided through this agreement will help our local operators grow and succeed, which is a priority of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. We are keen to work assiduously with Boeing in the coming months and years to make this a reality.”
As part of a strategic relationship with the ministry and Nigerian airlines, Boeing will provide planning workshops, training, technical support and assessments to airline operators.
"This agreement is an important step in establishing a sustainable civil aviation ecosystem in Nigeria as there is shared interest and value in driving innovation and progress,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales for Africa. “The importance of Nigeria for Boeing lies in its rich potential to foster economic growth, connect people, and shape the future of aviation in Africa and beyond.”
Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook projects Africa will need 1,170 airplanes over the next two decades. Boeing airplanes have formed the backbone of Africa's commercial fleet for over 75 years. More than 60 airlines operate around 500 Boeing airplanes throughout Africa, which represents nearly 70% of the airplane market across the continent.
DFW AIRPORT ANNOUNCES START OF TRANSFORMATIONAL WORK ON $9 BILLION CAPITAL PLAN WITH REIMAGINING OF TERMINAL C
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) today celebrated the beginning of major work on its nearly $9 billion capital improvement plan, called "DFW Forward," which will transform terminals, add new facilities and amenities, grow the number of gates, improve roadways and connectivity, enhance the airfield and mark the airport's largest capital investment since opening in 1974.
“After 50 years of growth, innovation and service to our community, a new era is now beginning at DFW,” said Sean Donohue, DFW's Chief Executive Officer. “The incredible upgrades and expansions we have planned across the airport are going to reimagine the customer experience in many ways and provide the needed framework to support more historic growth in air travel to and from North Texas. As we grow closer to serving 100 million passengers each year, it's time for DFW to enhance our remaining legacy terminal and imagine brand new ones. The work in front of us is exciting, but it is going to be complex, challenging and impactful as we continue to operate one of the world's busiest airports.”
“I am thrilled about the upcoming construction of a reimagined Terminal C at DFW Airport,” said Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson. “As an international city, Dallas flourishes through the global relationships made possible by the third-busiest airport in the world. This monumental expansion will strengthen one of Dallas' greatest assets, facilitating more dynamic connections with our nation and the world.”
"As DFW Airport embarks on this latest transformation, we are excited to see how these advancements will further enhance the travel experience and strengthen our connection to the world as the DFW Metroplex continues to rapidly grow,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “The reimaging of Terminal C is a significant step forward in ensuring that DFW Airport maintains its status as a top aviation hub. We're committed to supporting this growth and look forward to the new opportunities and benefits it will bring to travelers and the region."
American Airlines and other project partners joined DFW today to celebrate the work to completely rebuild and expand Terminal C. The approximately $3 billion project will transform the airport's busiest and most outdated terminal into a modern and spacious experience by removing more than 400 view-blocking columns, installing new dynamic glass windows and raising the roof throughout. Customers will also be able to enjoy the renewed experience with all-new facilities, including shops and restaurants, lounge space, check-in areas, security checkpoints and improved restrooms.
Also included in the project, and taking place concurrently with the first phase of Terminal C's reconstruction, are double-loaded pier expansions of both Terminal C and Terminal A. The expansions will add 115,000 square feet and four gates to Terminal C and 140,000 square feet and five gates to Terminal A. In addition to added capacity to accommodate growth, both expansions will feature more travel amenities for customers, including new restaurant and retail options, seating areas and restrooms.
BOMBARDIER'S GLOBAL 7500 BUSINESS JET BLAZES FORWARD, SETS MORE THAN 50 SPEED RECORDS IN UNDER 50 WEEKS
Bombardier today announced that its industry-leading Global 7500 business jet continues to pile up speed records, adding to its already impressive record-setting performances by reaching more than 50 records in less than 50 weeks.
Some of the most impressive new industry records include essential city pairs from Miami to São Paulo, Tokyo to Los Angeles, Jeddah to London and London to Bahrain. To further accentuate the Global 7500 aircraft's incredible performance attributes, the average speed of its 10 fastest new records is clocked at more than 1,000 km/h.
Exceptional performance and pristine luxury are the Global 7500 jet's calling cards. With a top speed of Mach 0.925 and a baseline range of 7,700 nautical miles (14,260 km), the Global 7500 is the ultimate record-setting time machine, bringing key destinations closer and closer. The aircraft's Smooth Flex Wing is like an in-air shock absorber, designed with a sophisticated slats and flap system that generates exceptional lift on takeoff and approach, maximizing aerodynamic efficiency and boosting performance while improving safety and offering the industry's smoothest ride. It also reduces fuel burn, lowers emissions and produces excellent short-field and high-speed performance - the type of journey its discerning customers strive for.
“With every new speed record, the Global 7500 aircraft builds on its well-deserved reputation as the most impressive ultra long-range aircraft in the skies today,” said Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive Vice President, Aircraft Sales and Bombardier Defence. “In terms of its design attributes, unique technological advancements and more, the Global 7500 aircraft is unmatched for its reliability, productivity and style.”
Performance attributes notwithstanding, the Global 7500 aircraft is in a class by itself in terms of design excellence. This exquisite business jet is the ultimate home office in the sky, a productive business tool that offers customers all the accoutrements of their preferred work environment. The aircraft boasts a stunning, spacious interior featuring four true living spaces, a full-size, superbly equipped kitchen and a dedicated crew suite, offering customers the ultimate in-flight experience. Other innovative design elements set the benchmark for the most exceptional cabin interior in business aviation, including Bombardier's patented Nuage seat, which features the industry's first zero-gravity position.
THE FIRST CAPSULE HOTEL IN THE BALTICS, KEPLER CLUB, HAS OPENED AT RIGA AIRPORT
Kepler Club, the first new concept hotel in the Baltics, has been opened at Riga Airport; it offers travellers accommodation and airport hospitality services. The hotel provides all the necessary amenities for passengers looking to rest between their flights or before early morning or late-night flights. The hotel features 74 comfortable personal and private sleeping cabins, with a minimum stay time of one hour.
“We are pleased to enhance Riga Airport's range of offers with a unique service for the Baltic region - the first capsule hotel. As passenger numbers continue to grow, we are always looking for ways to improve our service level and explore new opportunities for passenger experience and comfort. The Kepler Club offer will be especially appreciated by travellers for whom Riga is a stopover point for their onward flights, as well as those with early morning or late evening flights. This new service is important for Riga and Riga Airport as a regional air hub, and it also strengthens Riga's position as a Northern European travel hub,” said Arturs Saveljevs, Member of the Board of RIX Riga Airport, at the hotel's opening.
Kepler Club combines high-quality hospitality services with the latest technologies. The hotel offers self-service check-in and check-out kiosks, KeplerTV with access to Netflix, YouTube and other cable channels, as well as smart bathroom facilities. Personal tablets allow guests to access online flight information, shop at duty-free stores, communicate with the hotel reception, and place orders at KeplerShop without leaving their rest pod. Other services such as shower facilities, locker rooms, laundry service and a lounge service are also present.
The hotel is divided into two zones: one accessible to passengers before the security check for passengers whose boarding pass is not issued yet, and the other after security for those already in the terminal's departure passenger area waiting for their next flight. Both zones offer separate cabins for men and women, with one family room located in the public area. The dressing rooms are equipped with lockers, towels, showers, and modern amenities. The hotel's lounges in both zones include free access to wireless internet, coffee, tea, and drinking water. Entertainment devices, including PS5 and arcade games, are also available for guests to use free of charge in the departure passenger area lounge.
“Riga is the first stop in the Baltics and Europe for the Turkish hotel operator Kepler. We chose Riga after evaluating the impressive development of Riga Airport and its future plans. Latvia is a safe and stable place for growth, showing positive trends in passenger aviation development, with a well-educated, multilingual workforce available. We see Riga Airport as the region's travel hub,” said Omer Alaettinoglu, Chairman of the Board of Kepler, at the opening event.
Kepler is the second-largest tenant and the only accommodation services provider inside the terminal at Turkey's Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport and also has two hotels at
Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia. Kepler Club welcomed its first guests at Riga Airport in July, with the most active users coming from the Baltics and Scandinavia.
KLM TAKES DELIVERY OF ITS FIRST AIRBUS A321NEO AIRCRAFT
Dutch national carrier KLM, member of the Air France-KLM Group, has taken delivery of its first A321neo as part of their fleet modernisation with latest generation, fuel-efficient aircraft. With the aircraft KLM joins the community of successful A321neo operators.
By selecting the A321neo, KLM brings on-board the latest technology to lower decibels and to reduce the noise footprint during take-off, approach and landing. Together with its advanced fuel efficiency, the A321neo will play a key role in KLM's environmental ambition.
The newly delivered A321neo for KLM seats 227 passengers in a two-class layout. The cabin features Airbus' Airspace cabin with XL bins. The larger bins provide 60% more luggage capacity for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew. In addition, USB-C ports are available for passengers at every seat, and the latest lighting system enhances the overall passenger experience.
The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus' best-selling A320neo Family, offering unparalleled range and performance. Equipped with sharklets and powered by new generation CFM International LEAP-1A engines, the A321neo brings a 50% noise footprint reduction and at least 20% fuel savings and CO2 reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort in the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky. To date, more than 6,400 A321neo aircraft have been ordered by more than 90 customers across the globe.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321neo aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.
USA, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int. Airport (ATL/KATL), Atlanta, GA: A Delta Air Lines employee and a contractor were killed and another Delta Air Lines employee was injured at the Delta Air Lines' Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility (TOC 3) at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL/KATL), Atlanta Georgia, during an explosion of a Delta Air Lines Boeing 757-232 tire they were changing.
USA, between Cancun and Memphis: United Airlines flight UA1196, a Boeing 737-924ER, encountered severe turbulence on a flight between Cancún (CUN) and Chicago-O'Hare, IL (ORD). The flight diverted to Memphis, TN (MEM). One person was taken to the hospital; six others were injured as well but did not require treatment. The seat belt sign was on at the time, according to the airline.
Brazil, Sao Luis (SLZ): Azul flight AD4017, an Airbus A320-251N, suffered a bird strike during take-off from runway 06 at SLZ. The aircraft circled the airport and landed back at SLZ, 13 minutes later. The nose cone suffered a dent as a result of the bird strike.
