The Russian Navy's Future: A New Aircraft Carrier and Deadly Fighter Jets?

The Russian newspaper Izvestia (see translation here) featured statements by two Russian officials that suggested vertical takeoff and landing, or VTOL, aircraft carriers and aircraft will be joining the Russian Navy. Denis Manturov, the head of the Russian Ministry for Trade and Industry, said Russia would not build helicopter carriers. “I should only note that the shipbuilding program envisages construction of universal landing craft whose landing facilities (helicopter wing, landing craft, and floating armor) are supposed to be placed inside the ship hull or on the ship deck,” he said.The interesting part isn’t this news, so much as the commentary by Izvestia, which suggests where Moscow is headed (or where Moscow wants everyone to think it’s headed). The article argues that pure helicopter carriers are a Cold War relic, replaced by assault helicopter carriers whose choppers are there to land troops, and “universal landing craft” that can launch VTOL aircraft. Russia built two Moskva-class helicopter carriers in the 1960s, and then Kiev-class carriers flying vertical short takeoff and landing (VSTOL) aircraft. The Admiral Kuznetsov has been the only Russian carrier able to launch and recover regular fixed-wing aircraft as the U.S. Navy does.

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Korongo Airlines

Who are we ? Korongo Airlines, based in Lubumbashi, Katanga, has the ambition to become the benchmark for domestic and regional air transport in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Based on its partnership with Brussels Airlines and the George Arthur Forrest International Group and proudly bearing its Congolese identity, Korongo Airlines takes all international safety, service and comfort standards on board to ensure a smooth stress or worry, because you deserve it.

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Business Aviation

Aviation Branding Mistakes that Cost Huge to Businesses Every day and How to Avoid them

Article | January 7, 2022

Failure is beneficial for many reasons. But important is to manage and survive the onslaught of errors. With respect to bold attempts like adopting a new strategy, making judgments about the market, bad publicity, launching new products or services, and more like these often make airline marketers discourage due to a little or huge foul. The list also includes branding. Airline branding mistakes are often seen when businesses try either to aim to re-position in the market or create awareness among customers. If you are making branding mistakes, then remember that a combination of poor communication and ineffective brand planning causes one of the worst branding disasters! Aviation Branding Mistakes of All-Time Branding any airline company is challenging. When bad decisions about branding strategies happen, it costs huge to businesses. And most of the aviation businesses do it habitually. On this note, mistakes could happen in various ways. But some aviation branding mistakes shouldn’t be ignored at all. Mistakes can hurt your business hard. So, let’s highlight the common mistakes that can happen while branding for aviation and how you should avoid them. Implementation of Rigid Strategies Implementation of rigid branding strategies for aviation results in economic slumps Airlines need flexible marketing strategies to control the cost of labor and acquisition in order to balance the brand image. -Lauda, Marketing-In-Chief, Southwest Airlines While any significant shift in airline business strategy, like the pandemic forced, usually takes two to three years to implement. Therefore, you should design branding strategies that could afford the room for adjustments. In addition, those strategies will revive your older market position. Failing to do so could lead your airline company’s image to suffer a massive loss. So, what can you do ahead? Implement unique branding strategies for aviation to strengthen the value of your company. For this, you need to work and pay attention constantly to existing and potential customers you deal with. By understanding their perspective, marketers will be able to bring uniqueness to strategies. Following this process will ease you to adjust and cope up with the current economic condition. Overlooking SEO The entire aviation industry is going digitalized, especially after the pandemic fall. SEO is one of the most significant areas of digital marketing. So, if you do not master SEO, you are lagging behind competitors in branding for aviation. Your target audience/existing audience should never find difficulty in discovering your brand. This is the only rule of conducting tested SEO practices. It is because overlooking SEO means your customers are gone. So, here’s what to do instead. Try to find out what keywords are becoming relevant every day. Keep a watch at what keywords your competitors include to rank their brand name. Check relevant keywords for your brand message. Also, make sure about the trending keywords and how they are being searched. After you have mastered this metric, create branding strategies that are fit for your company. A Disconnect with Audience Failing to connect with an audience is the most significant mistake. Conducting inappropriate research on target audiences makes it hard to know how to connect with them. To understand it, you will have to think creatively and strategically simultaneously. For that, your team should create the best marketing design materials to attract a wide net of customers. What can you do more? While you connect with customers, an innovative perspective on your upcoming plans should be out of the box. Thinking in this way will help to reveal the gaps, problems, and undiscovered opportunities to make your brand better. Also, you will get deep insights about customers by directly reaching out through social media. You can use forums, email campaigns, loyalty programs, and other ways to connect. If you overcome this mistake, you will be able to connect with your potential customers. To have your criteria is essential. And then, you would be surprised to know how enthused some customers will be about a glimpse into the potential future of a product or service they will gain from your company. Becoming too Generic Coming across too generic ideas of branding for aviation will give a bad impression on your airline company. So, what constitutes this aviation branding mistake? Let’s know here • Depending on stock imagery • Forgetting on your core branding elements—for example, using a generic logo • Having a similar brand name as competitors’ • Offering a similar product/service similar as competitors’ • Usage of non-specific/non-industrial terms in marketing materials These points mean that the more generic your brand will showcase, the less unique you appear to the audience. A generic brand reflects being unprofessional, slapdash, or uninteresting. It’s clear—who would want to buy products or services from. What should you do instead? If you can offer a better or different picture of your airline brand, do it, even if you have to raise your budget. Connect a great designer and take full advantage of their experience. Your designer can help with much more than the standards of the branding work. Do some market research for brand promotion/positioning strategies to understand deeper. By doing so, you can leverage the complete value expertise and implement it in your branding techniques. Branding is One-time Action The action of branding in one time only is an old-school industry policy of aviation. Today is the era of digitalization, where still many existing aviation companies are practicing this approach. If your company falls in this category, then hold on and restrict it now. This is the time when your airline company needs a tangible branding suite, humanization approach. It should also include the defined message, value, logo, and other elements. However, the work doesn’t stop with these elements. The fact is, branding is an endless process. So, what do you need to do? You need to work diligently by keeping a very sharp razor focus on every effort associated with the branding process. So that you can continue to carve your company’s position in the market and stand out. Also, this will help your company stand out in customers’ minds. And hence, this will automatically strengthen your brand. Putting Branding Responsibilities on One Department Branding efforts are not only reserved for the marketing department. Instead, it should involve efforts along across departmental actions as well. There could be multi-departmental knowledge that could save you from poor branding. Might your marketing team’s efforts like the design or PR do not necessarily work perfectly. It's also possible that they ideate a similar design repeatedly. And you may be unknowingly making significant aviation branding mistakes. Those mistakes must have damaged the credibility of the strategies and the motive. A lot of companies work for branding only with the marketing team. That is why they lack in many other parts of branding. If you have a similar working process in your company, you need to think again! So, how to go ahead? To create an effective aviation branding, involve the sales, customer service, IT, networking, data analyst department on board. By collaborating with them, you can initiate many efforts to create purposeful solutions for audiences. Even the representatives of each department can involve and create target-proof branding strategies for aviation. Devaluing the importance of social media Devaluing the power of social media has been one of the most common and costly aviation branding mistakes businesses are making. From being active on it to acting on the audience’s activities has a lot of differences in-between. Many companies listen, but they don’t hear. The problem is they don’t show to their audiences. And thus, results in disconnection among audiences. So, what can you do instead? In the current time, the travel market is now more fragmented with the continuous shifting behavior of travelers. In this case, social media’s role is becoming significant. It’s one platform where you can obtain feedback by creating polls, communicating, and engaging with marketing tricks. It's a free and paid platform. You have every reason to take advantage of it to showcase your company and brand message to a wide net of audiences. Doing it regularly—keeping your content relevant and updated- will make your brand image evergreen. Save your Airline Company with Branding Bloopers Now you must have gained some insights on how to avoid branding mistakes. So, it's time to bid farewell to branding mistakes. Remember that consumers, context, and quality design should be at the forefront of your mind when you begin with branding planning. It’s crucial to hone on the right branding strategy because it’s an important way to position your aviation company in the market. The airline business is the biggest team sport in the world. When you are all consumed with fighting among yourselves, your opponents can run over you every day. – By Gordon Bethune Former CEO of Continental Airlines Frequently Asked Questions What are the other airline branding mistakes businesses usually make? Mistakes happen every day in airline businesses. But some common mistakes can cost a huge to a business. Here are some more airline mistakes: • Aviation businesses tend to implement competitors’ tactics that become entirely different from their original business structure or current and future plans of action. • Businesses do not think of investing in an aviation advertising agency. • Usually forgets the purpose behind the brand creation. • Create fake brand values What should airline businesses avoid in brand planning? While creating a brand, the airline businesses should avoid the following things: • Underestimating your customers • Untracking your marketing efforts • Unwilling to invest • Broad targeting • Lack of USP • Lack of research What do airline customers want from airline businesses? Airline customers are broad. They look for a wide array of services and products. So, your customer will always want some basic yet valuable things like committed customer service and satisfaction, easy approachability, content to understand solutions, and easy ways to invest. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the other airline branding mistakes businesses usually make?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Mistakes happen every day in airline businesses. But some common mistakes can cost a huge to a business. Here are some more airline mistakes: Aviation businesses tend to implement competitors’ tactics that become entirely different from their original business structure or current and future plans of action. Businesses do not think of investing in an aviation advertising agency. Usually forgets the purpose behind the brand creation. Create fake brand values" } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What should airline businesses avoid in brand planning?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While creating a brand, the airline businesses should avoid the following things: Underestimating your customers Untracking your marketing efforts Unwilling to invest Broad targeting Lack of USP Lack of research" } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What do airline customers want from airline businesses?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Airline customers are broad. They look for a wide array of services and products. So, your customer will always want some basic yet valuable things like committed customer service and satisfaction, easy approachability, content to understand solutions, and easy ways to invest." } }] }

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Aviation Technology

6 Effective Airline Marketing Strategies to Revitalize Business

Article | July 26, 2022

The airline industry has been an extremely tough marketplace. It takes a lot of effort to stand out from the competitors and to run business amidst everyday challenges to become top airlines in the country or worldwide. Yet, out of all this, the airline industry has maintained its dignity and has been successfully driven through market challenges. Aside from the unique dynamics of the current COVID-19 crisis, marketers before used aviation marketing tactics in a standard way. But, the sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic made aviation marketing exceptionally challenging for airlines worldwide to forecast demand and kickstart airline businesses in the future. But, as of now (after a year and half months from the pandemic outbreak), there is a lot of excitement about airline branding, airline marketing strategies, airline advertisements, and more. As a result, businesses are becoming confident that revitalizing their strategies would now take off effortlessly. Yet some challenges and many other uncertainties need to be addressed regarding the fast-changing business models, travel demand, revenue generation, sales, stability, and a lot more in the restart period. Let’s put some light on those uncertainties in the airline industry. The Uncertainties As per IATA (2020), the change in the airline business model creates additional uncertainty. It has been observed that the present state of the economy is the ultimate game of risk to airline revenue management and planning. This includes airline marketing strategies, airline advertising campaigns, and prospects of branding as well. The recent shift in business patterns have been caused and triggered by various events such as: A sharp decline in demand stimulation techniques applied by airlines Signs of disruption entering the market in the wake of the COVID-19 situation prevailing in countries Disruption of profitable plans for future Changing consumer behavior Missing data connections and collection As a result, these uncertain events demand a call for action across the entire airline sector value chain. The call must be initiated based on creative marketing strategy, prioritizing personalization, sustainability, and profitability. Now, the question ascends, why does your marketing team need to think out-of-the-box altogether to re-create airline marketing strategies. Read about it next! Why Airline Marketing Strategies Need to be Out-of-the-Box With the changes occurring in airline market dynamics, airline businesses have to reshuffle their marketing strategies. They have to be quick as novel opportunities are continuously pouring in. Despite the current situation that has put the airline market under stress, it has provided the foundations for a range of new blue ocean opportunities. This is where you can hop on those opportunities to re-scale your business. Therefore, the internal and external variables have to be considered in any forecasting activities of airlines, including revenue management, pricing, network, and marketing planning. In other words, game-changing strategies are born of thinking out-of-the-box—a leap into the unexpected. Here, creating effective aviation marketing strategies will fulfill the need to pursue a new product differentiation and revenue management angle. Doing so will also instill confidence back into the base of your airline business, including stakeholders. This is how your business can become successful again. By now, you must have understood that this is where the power of marketing in aviation can play a vital role in diminishing all the challenges. But before your marketing head towards creating robust aviation marketing strategies, you should first know about the approach of 3 Cs to make a successful marketing venture. 3 Cs to Consider While Marketing Your Aviation Business Marketing, as per the current scenario, will require rock-hard strategic preparation. Similarly, in aviation marketing also, your team needs to ensure consistent preparation. This continuous process will help the business build progressively in a constantly changing aviation business environment and fluctuating demands. Following this approach will help better in building innovative strategies and simultaneously exploring a wide range of possibilities. Contrast Before your marketing team heads to the stage of the plan, consider the assumptions bracing up in the current airline industry’s status. Then, your strategists should get hands-on to identify the possibilities to come ahead along with its results. Constrain Keep a look at the limitations stirring in the current airline market scenario. Then consider how the prevailing weaknesses can be converted into strengths to become successful among your competitors. Context To create out-of-the-box airline marketing strategies, which include airline advertisements, airline advertising campaigns, and more, you should plan to have a different context to stand out terrifically among other airline companies. In addition, marketing this way will give you surprising insights and help you emerge afterward through challenges that occurred due to the pandemic. Now that you are aware of the critical things to consider in creating airline marketing strategies. It is time to go ahead with creating strategically planned strategies. Here are some effective strategies discussed that would help to revitalize your airline business. 6 Airline Marketing Strategies Introduce Loyalty Programs The airline business is known for its range of offers of loyalty programs according to the target audience. Nearly all airline businesses create their ways to cater programs to a particular audience group or in general. However, loyalty programs work the same at the core, but to encourage audiences in the current time, you can offer different perks to them. So, be creative in creating campaigns, and you will find that your loyalty programs are capitalizing on your revenue and benefiting customers together. Distinguish your Brand and Position Yourself Branding and positioning have become essential for businesses operating in this pandemic time, where the market is now hugely competitive. So you have got to be quick to get your company identified by your customer base as well as the target ones. While proceeding in this manner, your best strength will distinguish you from your competitors serving in the same area. To make your brand image outstanding, you need to study customer demographics related to airline services. On the other hand, depending on the brand image you want to cultivate, you may need to create airline advertisements accordingly. It is because your brand will communicate a message to the worldwide population. And it’s important to consider how you want your target audience to think of you before you brand and position yourself through advertisements, social media platforms, and more. This is how you will be able to position yourself in every day changing aviation market dynamics. Be Creative with an Airline Advertising Strategy Out-of-the-box airline advertising strategies can help your business outshine amidst insane competition arising. It is because now you have to adjust according to the modern world scenario. Here, creative content plays an important role. Moreover, as you must be working remotely, the idea of using content marketing will massively support your advertising strategy. It would engage and inspire customers to leverage your services, and, ultimately, your revenue will take off once again. Introduce Paid Ads Now that you have a planned airline advertising strategy, you can also consider introducing paid ads in it. Yes! With the help of paid ads, you can target a location-wise audience more precisely. Paid ads also help in revenue generation and collaborations. These aspects are directly proportional to the profit earned out of implementing strategies. For example, paid ads may involve videos creation on YouTube to create brand awareness on your website, landing pages, or content (articles, blogs, etc.) page. By doing this, your brand value is going to skyrocket than what was it before. Set a Strategic Social Media Campaign Social media campaigns are the best ways to reach your customers and target audiences under airline marketing strategies. Spreading your brand voice through different social media platforms will help you humanize your brand and deepen relationships with a larger population. In addition, other airlines use social media to reward customer loyalty, so you can also indulge in activities for the same. For this, your marketing team should study which platforms your customer base visit frequently. Then, based on your research, you can do promotions, provide updates, make announcements, expand services or give some behind-the-scenes look of your company to customers as well as targeted audiences. It is because they appreciate participating in such events and get satisfied by relying on your company. During an interview with Media 7, Didi Horn, Chief Executive Officer at SkyX, made a statement. He told, “We have found that Linkedin has contributed the most to brand awareness over the years. In our business, there’s a very specific and niche target customer that we want to reach, so we don’t hesitate to invest in doing what it takes to build strong, lasting relationships.” Marketing leaders like Didi Horn and more are becoming successful with their marketing activities on LinkedIn. Similarly, you also use LinkedIn—as one of the most influential social media platforms to spread the word about your business activities and reach out target audience easily. Practice Influencer Marketing Yes, you heard it right! Influencer marketing is booming in the current pandemic scenario. This is the best way of earning better ROI. Implementing influencer airline marketing strategies would help realize your business goals. So, what goes under this marketing strategy? The formula of storytelling through content is considered beneficial to increase airline business. Adding transparency in the strategies can also be one formula while practicing influencer marketing. Implementing this strategy will attract more audiences because they get influenced by interesting content, storytelling, company behind the scenes. This humanizes the brand altogether, giving audiences a factor of trust and loyalty. As you have entered a completely different business scenario in the airline industry, your company needs robust marketing strategies. It’s important to understand that change may be predictable, but growth isn’t. Business growth highly depends on all the little things you do consistently to make it happen. Since you’re competing with many other airline companies, developing a strategic aviation marketing plan can boost sustainable business growth. Frequently Asked Questions What is an airline marketing strategy? An airline marketing strategy is a well-planned method in action that businesses create to fulfill goals such as boost revenue, surge engagement with customers, create brand visibility, positioning, target potential audience, and a lot more. Companies invest time and money to create a robust plan so that businesses can run effortlessly. Why is airline marketing strategy important? Airline marketing strategies are important for airlines to stand out firmly among the competitors, position their brand, create awareness among the existing customer base and attract more and more potential audiences through various online platforms. What are the top 3 marketing strategies for the airline? Although the marketing strategies involved in a business are critical, the top ones can be the following. Email marketing Social media Paid media advertising { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What is an airline marketing strategy?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "An airline marketing strategy is a well-planned method in action that businesses create to fulfill goals such as boost revenue, surge engagement with customers, create brand visibility, positioning, target potential audience, and a lot more. Companies invest time and money to create a robust plan so that businesses can run effortlessly." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "Why is airline marketing strategy important?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Airline marketing strategies are important for airlines to stand out firmly among the competitors, position their brand, create awareness among the existing customer base and attract more and more potential audiences through various online platforms." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the top 3 marketing strategies for the airline?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Although the marketing strategies involved in a business are critical, the top ones can be the following. Email marketing Social media Paid media advertising" } }] }

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Business Aviation

AI-Powered Ingredients to Enhance Airline Customer Experience in 2022

Article | January 28, 2022

Experience is Everything—human or mechanical. But Get it Right. "AI's potential doesn't solely lie in its ability to improve business efficiency. Rather it lies in its ability to bridge the gap between businesses and customers. AI-powered communications enable for surged personalized and strengthening of information, stimulating customer trust and customer experiences." - Kevin Gosschalk, CEO, Arkose Labs, in a conversation with Media 7. Whether you make payments with a single tap in apps, ask Alexa to instruct in your smartphones, select Google assistance to find flights, or connect to airline companies, digital transformation is omnipresent. So, the appreciation comes naturally for how today's digital atmosphere transforms and affects our lives in every way. Yes, you heard that right! Using Google assistance to find flights is not the new way the industry uses AI. Instead, it has enhanced its way of AI usage into its process and operations. Like other businesses, aviation businesses are catching up well in using data and technology. With the help of these, they now create more compelling and prompter customer experiences. The developments and revenues in the global aviation industry are skyrocketing. The industry expects almost 8.2 billion passengers to fly around the world by 2037. The rising numbers are because of digital transformation. The most interesting thing is aviation now has to manage high expectations of digital-savvy customers. It will be even more interesting now! Before the blog breaks into discussing the futuristic airline customer experience, let's look at the flashback of the past customer experience scenarios (challenges) that prevailed in the airline industry. Past Customer Experience Scenario in Airline The aviation industry in 2018 recorded 4.4 billion passengers flying around the world. Furthermore, according to the IATA reports, the count is anticipated to reach 8.2 billion by 2037. But the industry is increasingly lacking behind in customer experience. Complex booking procedures and missing out on the best flight offers because of complex app/website navigation and other potential customer services are issues raised in air travel today. Apart from this, customers also raise concerns over inflight infotainment systems. The systems merely do their job. Therefore, as many airport terminals are still empty, customer service representatives are working harder to overcome such issues. As the industry has stepped into the fourth industrial revolution, AI rewards the best experiences for travels and other airline customer services. Now, airline marketers can find diverse AI-based digital solutions to sail through the cloud. And the findings are quite remarkable. Let's come to the part where you will know how AI is helping the aviation industry scale its customer services. How Can AI Enrich Airline and Scale Customer Services? Airlines that leverage AI customer experience have had a significant advantage during the pandemic time. Their insights have been put into enriching the entire aviation business. Let's understand the 'how.' Get Multiple Output in Seconds When the demand for air fly rise, offering immediate services for customer handling teams becomes stressful. However, with AI, instances like this get a perfect solution. AI can handle an infinite number of customers' demands at once. By leveraging AI-based digital solutions, you can scale up fulfilling airline operations in seconds. As a result, teams in your firm can easily diminish the increased demand for services and serve remarkable customer experience. The benefit of AI can also be seen crosswise support channels. For instance, WestJet's ticket volume surged by 71% on Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp during the beginning weeks of COVID-19 disruption in North America. However, the airline kept its response time low as its virtual agent Juliet ultimately resolved 87% of tickets. Identity New and Trending Issues Aviation is an industry of challenges. Issues and obstacles keep knocking on the door of airline companies. In such cases, AI informs if there are any trending issues over channels. For example, during the COVID-19 outbreak, new onboard safety issues and questions towards social distancing surfaced for the first time. However, airlines have never come through about social distancing. So, by leveraging AI, they created a responsive plan for customers. They communicated the same through AI-enabled solutions on websites and applications. In response to the coronavirus, Gartner suggests that companies should use chatbots in digital channels to focus on the most ordinarily asked questions to give solutions for customers. Feedback Analysis Air travel can be stressful at times, even for frequent and experienced travelers. For example, it could be passport-related or booking tickets, baggage checks, ticket prints, arrivals, departures, seat assistance, etc. So, by analysis of data, artificial intelligence in customer experience learns about these pain points of airports and flight experiences. In this way, customer experience can be improved and enhanced simultaneously. Then comes feedback. Using AI for feedback analysis, airlines can research the market. It can make informed decisions related to processes and operations. "AI systems can quickly allow airlines to discover opportunities to intervene in the customer journey and turn a miserable experience into a delightful one. It also allows companies to respond faster in a synchronized and regulated way that is uniform with the business's values. Ultimately, we want to understand how an airline can fascinate a customer as well as where there is an abrasion in the customer journey and figure out how to fix it," - CEO of PureStrategy Inc. Briana Brownell Briana highlights the growing relevance of natural language used in AI. Understanding technology in the processing and analysis of customer experience data thus allows businesses to explore the customer journey in their own words. For example, ANIE, an AI assistance, can help customers find, book, and pay for flights. Effective Communication The speed of responsive communication to customer queries is highly considered to resolve issues. For example, airport issues like flight delays or baggage loss crop up quite often throwing. As a result, travelers usually get into a state of nervousness. However, when they do not get a response or explanation to their problems, they start considering other airlines for their future trips. In these cases, AI software deployment can speed up and simplify services, automatically enhancing airline customer experience. In addition, effective customer emails with exact information can also solve significant issues and streamline employees' workflow using natural text. Another way to automate and improve airline customer experience is chatbot development. Today, many airlines enhance their customer support with AI-powered chatbots on their websites and mobile applications. The Business Insider’s research report says that by 2022, over 80% of airline businesses are likely to have chatbot automation implemented in operations. These chatbots help passengers with bookings, managing flight schedules, and updating customers about general flight information. In addition, they can post queries and other types of assistance to get quick responses. Self-Services at Airports Easy self-check-ins, ticket booths, and overall communication (from booking to destination arrival) add to the comprehensive AI-based digital solutions. The pandemic forced the aviation industry to witness the extraordinary rise of numerous contactless technologies. So, airports are now more focused on providing self-services for customers. These include contactless payments, luggage checks, robotic assistance for queries, and more like these. Self-service systems in airports are critical automated systems. AI technology is installed to automate passenger journeys without any hurdles. Today, airline companies and airports implement an end-to-end solution using artificial intelligence in customer experience to facilitate smooth passenger air travel and operations. In case of point, Delta Airlines, one of the world's largest global airlines, uses intelligent systems such as Fly to Gate by Thales. The system works with biometrics technology. The employees use it for the document scanning process to recognize and verify passengers at security checks. Such technology reduces passenger check-in time and improves customer experience. Future of AI Customer Experience in Airline Industry There are many shreds of evidence that customers increasingly want a personal touch with their communications. They adore personalized services. Even airline companies are seeking profound connections with their customers. And this is the right time to act by offering personalized customer experiences. Today, AI makes it possible for the entire airline industry to enhance customer experience with automation, provide self-service solutions, ensure safe air travel, and more. Technology is a powerful tool for airlines to make informed decisions that they couldn't take in the past few years. Now airlines can make decisions faster on essential decisions such as on pricing of tickets by analyzing data, enabling secure authentication of customers than before. Ultimately, the success of artificial intelligence in customer experience is driven by having a deep understanding of different customer segments. By harnessing the power of conversational AI, airline businesses can improve their ROI, nurture long-term customer relationships, metrics being the core elements. Frequently Asked Questions How can airline companies improve their customer experience? To improve customer experience, airline companies can follow these ways: Focus on knowing the target audience Meet unique and specific customer needs Keep customers engaged on social media platforms Make smart customer-targeted decisions Be responsive towards customers How does AI play its role in aviation concerning customer experiences these days? AI plays a crucial role in helping customers in aviation to find the correct information more efficiently. It actively helps analyze customers' data and recommend services based on their browsing preferences about flights. How does AI improve customer experience? AI enables the power to strengthen customer engagement, encourage activities, and improve customer retention. Although not a replacement for human beings, it does help increase the efficiency of serving — like answering frequently asked questions, providing the correct information, and being available 24*7. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "How can airline companies improve their customer experience?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "To improve customer experience, airline companies can follow these ways: Focus on knowing the target audience Meet unique and specific customer needs Keep customers engaged on social media platforms Make smart customer-targeted decisions Be responsive towards customers" } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "How does AI play its role in aviation concerning customer experiences these days?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "AI plays a crucial role in helping customers in aviation to find the correct information more efficiently. It actively helps analyze customers' data and recommend services based on their browsing preferences about flights." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "How does AI improve customer experience?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "AI enables the power to strengthen customer engagement, encourage activities, and improve customer retention. Although not a replacement for human beings, it does help increase the efficiency of serving — like answering frequently asked questions, providing the correct information, and being available 24*7." } }] }

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How AI can save airline customer service teams in times of crisis

Article | April 20, 2020

The coronavirus outbreak has put airline customer care teams on the front lines. Airlines that have adopted artificial intelligence are alleviating some of the stress that their customer care teams are under.

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Spotlight

Korongo Airlines

Who are we ? Korongo Airlines, based in Lubumbashi, Katanga, has the ambition to become the benchmark for domestic and regional air transport in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Based on its partnership with Brussels Airlines and the George Arthur Forrest International Group and proudly bearing its Congolese identity, Korongo Airlines takes all international safety, service and comfort standards on board to ensure a smooth stress or worry, because you deserve it.

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Business Aviation, Commercial Aviation, Aviation Technology

CDPQ and SMBC Aviation Capital partner to create USD 1.5 B aircraft financing platform

PR Newswire | January 30, 2024

CDPQ, a global investment group, and SMBC Aviation Capital, the world's second largest aircraft leasing company, announced today that they have finalized an agreement to create a USD 1.5-billion global aircraft financing and leasing platform dedicated to modern, fuel-efficient NextGen aircraft. This new platform will focus on worldwide opportunities in new technology aircraft and target an initial deployment of USD 500 million per year, over three years. SMBC Aviation Capital will source transactions and, under a sistership condition, invest in opportunities alongside the platform. SMBC Aviation Capital will also act as servicer of the platform, which will operate under the banner Maple Aircraft Company Holdings Limited. "Building on CDPQ's experience in the aircraft financing industry, through this new platform, we will continue to provide flexible financing solutions for airlines to meet their future fleet requirements," said Marc Cormier, Executive Vice-President and Head of Fixed Income at CDPQ. "We're delighted to partner with SMBC Aviation Capital, an industry leader with a successful track record, who has demonstrated their commitment to sustainable aviation, to find the best opportunities in the commercial aircraft industry and to achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns over the long term." "We are pleased to partner with CDPQ on this new platform to benefit our airline customers worldwide," said Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital. "CDPQ is an experienced, well respected, global investment group, which is aligned with our own views on capital allocation and a sustainable aviation industry. We look forward to working with our new partners over the coming years on this collaboration."

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Commercial Aviation, Cargo Management

B&H Worldwide Secures Vital Logistics Contract with Flair Airlines

EIN Presswire | January 29, 2024

B&H Worldwide, a global leader in aerospace and aviation logistics, is delighted to announce the successful acquisition of a new contract with Flair Airlines, a leading Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. Flair Airlines, known for its scheduled passenger and chartered services with a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, has selected B&H Worldwide as its trusted logistics partner. Under this agreement, B&H Worldwide will provide critical support to Flair Airlines, including Aircraft on Ground (AOG) assistance, Import/Export Clearance, and deliveries. The scope of the partnership extends to cover key regions, with a focus on Canada, the USA, and Australia. Gary Wilson, Group Managing Director of B&H Worldwide, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "We are honoured to have been chosen by Flair Airlines to provide logistics services. This partnership signifies our commitment to delivering high-quality solutions to the aerospace industry. B&H Worldwide is poised to support Flair Airlines' operations seamlessly and contribute to their success." To ensure a smooth and efficient import/export process, B&H Worldwide has developed a customized Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). This SOP not only facilitates a streamlined logistics process but also outlines key contacts and support points tailored to Flair Airlines' specific needs. Furthermore, it establishes service standards that align with the airline's shipment requirements. Gary Wilson added, "Our bespoke service is a testament to our dedication to meeting the unique demands of Flair Airlines. We are committed to providing not only exceptional logistics services but also a partnership built on trust and collaboration." B&H Worldwide will leverage their philosophy of custom processes to support Flair Airlines in their logistics operations, working closely with their supply chain team. The first successful logistics project, a COMAT shipment, included a total of 17 pallets containing aviation parts (non-Dangerous Goods), 737 main wheels, 737 nose wheels, 737 brake in a clamshell, and Inflight training equipment. In a notable milestone, Flair Airlines loaded their own Boeing 737-800 MAX aircraft with materials destined for Australia. The 737-800 MAX aircraft departed from Calgary, Canada, and successfully landed in Coolangatta, Australia. B&H Worldwide played a crucial role in facilitating the clearance process in Australia. Vladan Nikolic, Director of Material Supply Chain for Flair Airlines, expressed his satisfaction with B&H Worldwide's performance, stating, "The B&H Australian team's professionalism and responsiveness during the first logistics project was impressive. We have full confidence in their capabilities, and I look forward to continued collaboration at this high service level." B&H Worldwide remains committed to delivering top-tier logistics solutions, and the partnership with Flair Airlines further solidifies the company's position as a trusted leader in aerospace and aviation logistics.

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Aerospace, Aviation Technology, Airport Management

Avelo Airlines' First International Service Takes Flight From Lansing Through Apple Vacations Partnership

PR Newswire | January 27, 2024

Avelo Airlines' first international service takes flight this weekend from Lansing's Capital Region International Airport (LAN) in partnership with Apple Vacations. The partnership's new scheduled public charter service will serve three international destinations from LAN. Avelo and Apple Vacations offer nonstop flights and vacation packages between LAN and three tropical international destinations: Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic beginning tomorrow, Jan. 27 through April 3, 2024. Booking information and specific flight dates and times can be found at AppleVacations.com. Beginning Jan. 27: Lansing to Cancun International Airport (CUN) – three times weekly on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays Beginning Feb. 2: Lansing to Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport (MBJ) – one time weekly on Fridays Beginning Jan. 28: Lansing to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) – two times weekly on Sundays and Thursdays Avelo Airlines Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy said, "These three tropical destinations Avelo will operate for Apple Vacations from Lansing are the perfect debut of Avelo's international service. We look forward to offering the same reliable and friendly experience to Apple Vacations' Customers that we've been providing Avelo's Capital Region Customers since we took flight at LAN 15 months ago. Apple Vacations' selection of Avelo to operate their flights to these three popular destinations is a testament to positive reputation we've built in Michigan and across the country." Additionally, Avelo offers twice-weekly scheduled service between LAN and Orlando International Airport (MCO). Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between LAN and MCO. Nonstop service to Orlando can be booked at AveloAir.com. Since Avelo began service at LAN on October 26, 2022, the airline has flown over 30,000 Customers on nearly 300 flights. Avelo also leads LAN in reliability with a 100% completion factor, meaning there have been no Avelo cancellations at LAN since the airline inaugurated served there 15 months ago. Capital Region Airport Authority President and CEO Nicole Noll-Williams said, "We are thrilled that Apple Vacations is back at LAN for our 2024 international season. And we couldn't be more excited that Apple selected Avelo Airlines to operate these flights with their exceptional track record for reliable and friendly service. These nonstop flights to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica for 2024 are another reminder that LAN is a gateway to popular vacation destinations around the world – and it's not too late to book your trip!" America's Most Convenient Airline Avelo was founded to Inspire Travel by saving its Customers time and money. Since taking flight on April 28, 2021, Avelo has flown 4.2 million Customers on over 30,000 flights. Today, Avelo serves 43 destinations in 23 states and Puerto Rico. Along the way, Avelo has unlocked a new era of convenience, choice and competition by flying unserved routes to primarily underserved communities across the country. Every Avelo flight is nonstop, and at least one airport on every Avelo flight is a small, easy to use airport – making every Avelo journey easier and more enjoyable. Avelo is distinguished by its reliability. In 2023, Avelo achieved the lowest flight cancellation rate and the second-best on-time performance in the U.S. airline industry. Avelo Customers can always change or cancel their itineraries with no extra fees. Additionally, families can travel with ease knowing every child 13 and under will always be automatically seated with an accompanying adult at no additional cost. Additionally, Avelo offers advanced seat assignments for sale. One third of its seats are extra leg room seats, ranging from 32 inches to more than 36 inches, offering a more comfortable experience for Customers who value more space. In addition to advance seat assignments, Avelo offers several unbundled travel-enhancing options that give Customers the flexibility to pay only for what they value, including priority boarding, checked bags, carry-on overhead bags, and bringing a pet in the cabin.

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Business Aviation, Commercial Aviation, Aviation Technology

CDPQ and SMBC Aviation Capital partner to create USD 1.5 B aircraft financing platform

PR Newswire | January 30, 2024

CDPQ, a global investment group, and SMBC Aviation Capital, the world's second largest aircraft leasing company, announced today that they have finalized an agreement to create a USD 1.5-billion global aircraft financing and leasing platform dedicated to modern, fuel-efficient NextGen aircraft. This new platform will focus on worldwide opportunities in new technology aircraft and target an initial deployment of USD 500 million per year, over three years. SMBC Aviation Capital will source transactions and, under a sistership condition, invest in opportunities alongside the platform. SMBC Aviation Capital will also act as servicer of the platform, which will operate under the banner Maple Aircraft Company Holdings Limited. "Building on CDPQ's experience in the aircraft financing industry, through this new platform, we will continue to provide flexible financing solutions for airlines to meet their future fleet requirements," said Marc Cormier, Executive Vice-President and Head of Fixed Income at CDPQ. "We're delighted to partner with SMBC Aviation Capital, an industry leader with a successful track record, who has demonstrated their commitment to sustainable aviation, to find the best opportunities in the commercial aircraft industry and to achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns over the long term." "We are pleased to partner with CDPQ on this new platform to benefit our airline customers worldwide," said Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital. "CDPQ is an experienced, well respected, global investment group, which is aligned with our own views on capital allocation and a sustainable aviation industry. We look forward to working with our new partners over the coming years on this collaboration."

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Commercial Aviation, Cargo Management

B&H Worldwide Secures Vital Logistics Contract with Flair Airlines

EIN Presswire | January 29, 2024

B&H Worldwide, a global leader in aerospace and aviation logistics, is delighted to announce the successful acquisition of a new contract with Flair Airlines, a leading Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. Flair Airlines, known for its scheduled passenger and chartered services with a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, has selected B&H Worldwide as its trusted logistics partner. Under this agreement, B&H Worldwide will provide critical support to Flair Airlines, including Aircraft on Ground (AOG) assistance, Import/Export Clearance, and deliveries. The scope of the partnership extends to cover key regions, with a focus on Canada, the USA, and Australia. Gary Wilson, Group Managing Director of B&H Worldwide, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "We are honoured to have been chosen by Flair Airlines to provide logistics services. This partnership signifies our commitment to delivering high-quality solutions to the aerospace industry. B&H Worldwide is poised to support Flair Airlines' operations seamlessly and contribute to their success." To ensure a smooth and efficient import/export process, B&H Worldwide has developed a customized Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). This SOP not only facilitates a streamlined logistics process but also outlines key contacts and support points tailored to Flair Airlines' specific needs. Furthermore, it establishes service standards that align with the airline's shipment requirements. Gary Wilson added, "Our bespoke service is a testament to our dedication to meeting the unique demands of Flair Airlines. We are committed to providing not only exceptional logistics services but also a partnership built on trust and collaboration." B&H Worldwide will leverage their philosophy of custom processes to support Flair Airlines in their logistics operations, working closely with their supply chain team. The first successful logistics project, a COMAT shipment, included a total of 17 pallets containing aviation parts (non-Dangerous Goods), 737 main wheels, 737 nose wheels, 737 brake in a clamshell, and Inflight training equipment. In a notable milestone, Flair Airlines loaded their own Boeing 737-800 MAX aircraft with materials destined for Australia. The 737-800 MAX aircraft departed from Calgary, Canada, and successfully landed in Coolangatta, Australia. B&H Worldwide played a crucial role in facilitating the clearance process in Australia. Vladan Nikolic, Director of Material Supply Chain for Flair Airlines, expressed his satisfaction with B&H Worldwide's performance, stating, "The B&H Australian team's professionalism and responsiveness during the first logistics project was impressive. We have full confidence in their capabilities, and I look forward to continued collaboration at this high service level." B&H Worldwide remains committed to delivering top-tier logistics solutions, and the partnership with Flair Airlines further solidifies the company's position as a trusted leader in aerospace and aviation logistics.

Read More

Aerospace, Aviation Technology, Airport Management

Avelo Airlines' First International Service Takes Flight From Lansing Through Apple Vacations Partnership

PR Newswire | January 27, 2024

Avelo Airlines' first international service takes flight this weekend from Lansing's Capital Region International Airport (LAN) in partnership with Apple Vacations. The partnership's new scheduled public charter service will serve three international destinations from LAN. Avelo and Apple Vacations offer nonstop flights and vacation packages between LAN and three tropical international destinations: Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic beginning tomorrow, Jan. 27 through April 3, 2024. Booking information and specific flight dates and times can be found at AppleVacations.com. Beginning Jan. 27: Lansing to Cancun International Airport (CUN) – three times weekly on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays Beginning Feb. 2: Lansing to Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport (MBJ) – one time weekly on Fridays Beginning Jan. 28: Lansing to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) – two times weekly on Sundays and Thursdays Avelo Airlines Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy said, "These three tropical destinations Avelo will operate for Apple Vacations from Lansing are the perfect debut of Avelo's international service. We look forward to offering the same reliable and friendly experience to Apple Vacations' Customers that we've been providing Avelo's Capital Region Customers since we took flight at LAN 15 months ago. Apple Vacations' selection of Avelo to operate their flights to these three popular destinations is a testament to positive reputation we've built in Michigan and across the country." Additionally, Avelo offers twice-weekly scheduled service between LAN and Orlando International Airport (MCO). Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between LAN and MCO. Nonstop service to Orlando can be booked at AveloAir.com. Since Avelo began service at LAN on October 26, 2022, the airline has flown over 30,000 Customers on nearly 300 flights. Avelo also leads LAN in reliability with a 100% completion factor, meaning there have been no Avelo cancellations at LAN since the airline inaugurated served there 15 months ago. Capital Region Airport Authority President and CEO Nicole Noll-Williams said, "We are thrilled that Apple Vacations is back at LAN for our 2024 international season. And we couldn't be more excited that Apple selected Avelo Airlines to operate these flights with their exceptional track record for reliable and friendly service. These nonstop flights to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica for 2024 are another reminder that LAN is a gateway to popular vacation destinations around the world – and it's not too late to book your trip!" America's Most Convenient Airline Avelo was founded to Inspire Travel by saving its Customers time and money. Since taking flight on April 28, 2021, Avelo has flown 4.2 million Customers on over 30,000 flights. Today, Avelo serves 43 destinations in 23 states and Puerto Rico. Along the way, Avelo has unlocked a new era of convenience, choice and competition by flying unserved routes to primarily underserved communities across the country. Every Avelo flight is nonstop, and at least one airport on every Avelo flight is a small, easy to use airport – making every Avelo journey easier and more enjoyable. Avelo is distinguished by its reliability. In 2023, Avelo achieved the lowest flight cancellation rate and the second-best on-time performance in the U.S. airline industry. Avelo Customers can always change or cancel their itineraries with no extra fees. Additionally, families can travel with ease knowing every child 13 and under will always be automatically seated with an accompanying adult at no additional cost. Additionally, Avelo offers advanced seat assignments for sale. One third of its seats are extra leg room seats, ranging from 32 inches to more than 36 inches, offering a more comfortable experience for Customers who value more space. In addition to advance seat assignments, Avelo offers several unbundled travel-enhancing options that give Customers the flexibility to pay only for what they value, including priority boarding, checked bags, carry-on overhead bags, and bringing a pet in the cabin.

Read More

Events