Could the Army's New Scout Helicopter Have Wings?

When the U.S. Army retired their fleets of OH-58 Kiowa scout helicopters, they ran into a rather sticky predicament as a result of their short-sighted haste: they had no adequate replacement for the venerable scout.In the aftermath of the 2017 retirement of the Kiowa Warrior series, AH-64 Apache helicopter attempted to fill the role, with mixed success.The Apache is the best attack helicopter in the world, but it’s not the best-armed reconnaissance helicopter,” U.S. Army Brigadier General Walter Rugen of Army Futures Command said earlier this month. “We need a smaller form factor that can hide in the radar clutter and that has reach.

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DB Aviation

DB Aviation provides aviation solutions nationwide. From charter to management, FBO services to maintenance, consulting to expert witness services, DB Aviation can address any number of needs.

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Three Aviation Content Marketing Successful Stories

Article | June 2, 2022

Let’s be honest! Customers support advertising. But they seek out information. In a marketing world where advertising reigns, aviation customers want well-researched, proficiently crafted informative content that tells stories, explains products, and helps them make smart decisions. Content: Builds Credibility and Influence with Information When you make a decision, you seek out the most credible sources of information available on the internet or off the net. However, for many aviation consumers, content types like publications, blogs, whitepapers, and other high-quality are the most preferred to read. A consistent flow of information maintains the credibility of your publication and communication with your clients, customers, or stakeholders. This can only be possible when you have a good content marketing strategy. Good content marketing, as marketers say, is an all-hands-on-deck affair. Strategizing, content production, analysis, audits, and reviews play a vital role in creating great content marketing ideas. In addition, you need to coordinate with different departments to meticulously create a plan of action that hits the right audience at the right time with an accurate message. But remember, even if you plan it in the right way, things can go wrong. And you might feel that nothing more can be done, even having perfect airline marketing strategies. So, in such a moment of disparity, for your aviation marketing, it’s helpful to revisit some of the most amazing content marketing strategies successful stories out on the internet to get inspired and give a new perspective to your next content marketing ideas. Content Marketing: Stories Let us have a look at the excellent content marketing success stories. The following examples showcase the suitable approaches you can have for your next content marketing campaigns. So, take a look and learn to craft a better strategy. JetBlue’s Campaign Towards Passenger Concerns The airline industry has had its share of ups and downs in executing airline marketing strategies and airline advertisement plans since the pandemic outbreak in 2020. Under such conditions, low-cost airline JetBlue showcased its brand stand above all these struggles. Their content marketing strategy that creates compelling, engaging, and informative content consistently helped convey the brand message to the audience and build brand image. The Strategy JetBlue’s content marketing ideas focus on humanizes its approaches. For example, the company launched a campaign that awarded passengers with rewards points. The airline’s digital marketing strategy, at every level, has a unique way of providing information to its audience and offering solutions. This way, it offered the clients more reasons to engage with its brand. The brand used blogs and media coverage to engage with its clients. Here are the following content strategies it used: Timely published airline articles attracted instant attention of visitors to the website. The information provided in the article was about the usage of technology and successful collaborations to ease the operations. Filled the website with timeless articles that served information to overcome the pandemic challenges and provide value in real-time. Always tried to go with the trends, latest news, and updates. As updates were in time, it maximized clicks and engagements. The Outcome Content published and strategies implemented successfully enabled JetBlue to acknowledge their audiences’ concerns. The information provided solved the persistent problems of the audience. This approach resulted in a significant hike in the percentage of website visitors, which eventually grew traffic. Copa Airlines’ DotDigital Copa Airlines, like other airlines, also wanted to streamline the operational processes allied with content marketing campaigns, emails to target the most of audiences, and stabilizing its market position. It was all because the manual process took up a long time and contributed to accuracy errors. As part of its recovery plan, it also wanted to become more agile in its email and content marketing by synchronizing the gap between website visits and email triggers to focus actively on capitalizing on the demand. The Strategy Copa Airlines’ partnering with dotdigital, a marketing and engagement platform, successfully implemented the campaigns. It focused only on active audiences and accurately understand the purpose. By employing powerful content creatives to create and automate email copies with variations, it was able to restructure the process and added personalization that subjected audiences’ demands and preferences. The Outcome Copa enhanced its brand visibility, which boosted conversions by 2%. This result led to a 14% hike in revenue, thus improved its ROI. With the addition of automation and personalization, Copa also experienced an 11% drop in unsubscribe numbers. This pointed towards the increased engagement of audiences with the new content marketing strategy. AirAsia’s Media Business Expansion AirAsia’s topmost concern towards its business expansion was content marketing, media, data, and adtech. The brand wants these functionalities to perform on the top in revenue growth and lift its performance in 2021 & beyond. To grow its business, it focuses more on engagement and providing value to its audience. It seeks to build a more substantial base of audiences than before. Since early 2020, the brand accelerated its digital business by demonstrating product offerings through blogs, video, and chats. The content information provided through the content marketing strategy was more authentic, relevant, and delivered significant value to customers. The Strategy The brand runs campaigns using self-service adtech and content platforms. The company has a deal with Universal Music Group (UMG), through which it created RedCarpet that focuses on smart campaigns with the help of content creation capabilities. The Outcome The critical part of the RedCarpet initiative is it created multiple partnerships signed for the upcoming quarter of 2021. It also introduced flexibility in tech offerings to the customer through various content generation on its website and social media channels. But, most importantly, the brand took a step ahead to enhance content services as a publisher. This is a new investment straightaway to become the pandemic warrior in the airline industry. The brand envisions surged engagement among customers and potential audiences once travel restrictions are lifted. Thus, AirAsia’s database will have more users in the coming years. Frequently Asked Questions Why is the need to educate audiences in the airline industry becoming necessary? Today consumers are becoming smart. They are saturated with businesses offering the same repeated product or service. So, being educated help them to make informed decisions. And creates loyalty towards the brand along with a long-term relationship. How can content marketing help to address target audiences in the airline industry? Content marketing can help in addressing the queries of the client at various levels of the process. This strengthens a positive outlook towards the brand and probably motivates them to become part of the brand. How to use content marketing to increase brand image in the airline industry? Follow these steps to increase your brand image using content marketing: Create a brand that tells a story about offerings to the audience Research on the unexplored side of your industry which is still untouched and thus attract eyeballs to drive your brand Think of expanding content created out of your research Create evergreen content pieces Create a live website and include the easiest ways for visitors to approach { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "Why is the need to educate audiences in the airline industry becoming necessary?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Today consumers are becoming smart. They are saturated with businesses offering the same repeated product or service. So, being educated help them to make informed decisions. And creates loyalty towards the brand along with a long-term relationship." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "How can content marketing help to address target audiences in the airline industry?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Content marketing can help in addressing the queries of the client at various levels of the process. This strengthens a positive outlook towards the brand and probably motivates them to become part of the brand." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "How to use content marketing to increase brand image in the airline industry?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Follow these steps to increase your brand image using content marketing: Create a brand that tells a story about offerings to the audience Research on the unexplored side of your industry which is still untouched and thus attract eyeballs to drive your brand Think of expanding content created out of your research Create evergreen content pieces Create a live website and include the easiest ways for visitors to approach" } }] }

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Business Aviation

Will Flights Like Project Sunrise Be The Future Of Air Travel?

Article | January 28, 2022

With rescue flights crisscrossing the globe and passengers keen to get where they are going as soon as possible, will we see the end of hub to hub travel? Has this current aviation crisis signaled the decline of the current model of aviation we know today? One reporter at Simple Flying gives his opinion.

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Air Transport

A Peek into The Future of Piloting Airplanes

Article | July 15, 2022

Flying is changing, and so is the future of piloting. With technological advancements across the aviation industry, one can only anticipate what’s in store for the future of piloting. The battle between automation and learning skills that automation can easily take over is coming to a head. As airplane engineering matures, the aviation industry isn’t far from seeing a day when pilots who have undergone training on electric trainers require a license endorsement to fly a piston-powered aircraft. Goodbye, Manual Flying Airplanes are becoming downright easier to fly. Consider how most pilots today would never be able to fly the aircraft that their seniors trained in. According to experts, piloting skills will put more emphasis on the efficient use of airspace systems instead of directing and maneuvering the aircraft. Decoding Airplane Information Traditionally, a pilot’s primary task was to gather and decode the information he received through the aircraft’s systems. This information was then used to give the pilot an “air picture” which allowed him to get a sense of the air traffic, airspace, and weather. As aircraft technology improves, pilots will no longer need to know how to do this. Instead, the "air picture" will be shown on a screen in front of them. Final Word From augmented reality to 3D spatial audio cues, augmentation is happening to aircraft as well as the pilot’s ability to fly them. The evolution of aviation technology will only help transform the mechanics of airplanes, and pilots will no longer need to handle flight control. As augmented reality takes over, future cockpits might not even need to be at the front of the aircraft or have windows. That would be the true test of the future of piloting.

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Business Aviation

4 Major Ways Aviation Can Transit Towards A Low Carbon Path

Article | January 7, 2022

The aviation industry has allowed people to connect the world in unimaginable ways. Due to this, it has contributed massively to social and economic development globally. However, the aviation sector produces nearly 1.8% of annual carbon emissions. It is almost half of the total growth in carbon dioxide emissions in the last twenty years due to the expansion of flights, increasing routes, and airline sizes. In the loop, the commercial aviation sector has also been affected by climate change. The change is due to increased noise levels, air pollution, and waste production. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the industry recorded 2.8% of global CO2 emissions in 2019. But now, the industry has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2050 through a focus on a critical low-carbon strategy, says IATA. By looking at this futuristic development, airline businesses are becoming more and more optimistic. The Action Plan The aviation industry has taken steps to reduce rising carbon emissions. The industry had framed targets that included carbon-neutral growth before the pandemic. But the pandemic compelled the industry to make some critical decisions. One of them is to fasten the action plan for low-carbon development. McKinsey recently studied the industry’s emissions. According to the report, the industry's aviation emissions would be reduced by 18 to 35 percent by 2030. However, as the aviation industry’s growth is recorded from Asia, including India, China, and Southeast Asia, decarbonization can only work if airlines from these nations actively participate in the development. “For aviation, zero-carbon is a bold, audacious commitment. But it is also necessary.” -IATA Director General Willie Walsh Airlines and other businesses are under pressure to make rapid progress towards lower emissions. It is because breakthrough technology like hydrogen-powered planes has started manufacturing. For example, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Inc., and United Airlines Holding Inc. have already made net-zero commitments by introducing hydrogen-powered planes. Similarly, JetBlue Airways Corp has set a target of 2040 to introduce low-carbon planes in no time. So, by looking at above comitments, how will aviation progress in terms of low-carbon development? What are those fundamental ways that’ll guide the industry to see a sustainable future in real life? 4 Ways Aviation will Look Forward to Reducing Carbon Emissions Green Fuel Aviation considers green fuel as one of the quickest paths to low carbon development. Green fuel can be a game-changer in lessening carbon emission impacts. But, furthermore, it can lead to drastic climate change. Green fuel, also known as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), is made from renewable sources such as plants or waste. As per IATA, SAF can cut carbon emissions by nearly 80%. But specific concerns like cost and availability are equally essential to think about. For example, the United States and other countries consider subsidies to decrease prices and increase supplies. They are practicing this due to limited availability. Also, some airlines are blending small amounts into the fuel they buy for their aircraft. Other concerns, such as planes running properly on pure SAF, are also highlighted. In addition, flight engines based on petroleum fuel rely on their oily qualities to lubricate parts and function appropriately. So, it's unclear if green fuels offer that amount of strength in their engines to fly a flight. Despite so many heated concerns (that are valid), the industry still looks good as Boeing (BA.N) studies the above issue. It has even committed to ensuring its planes are certified for 100% SAF by 2030. 242 Lower Carbon Technologies Technological improvements to lower carbon emissions include retrofitting existing aircraft, adopting the latest fuel-efficient aircraft, retiring old aircraft, and others. Several ongoing electric or hybrid-electric aircraft technology projects are in the pipeline. They are being identified to enter the industry between 2022-2030. In contrast, some of them are already in service. Developments in Infrastructure The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has created plans to reduce fuel burn and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). The plans have been forwarded to optimize communication, navigation, surveillance (CNS), and air transport management (ATM) regarding zero-carbon development. Apart from this, airlines are also working to align emission cuts with investments. Consumption of fuel usually covers 20-30% of operational costs. It is one of the highest costs of an airline business. So now airlines are considering adopting fuel-efficient flying and airport operations. Collaborations Today, aviation needs more stakeholders for a sustainable future. They can only increase the efficiencies and development of SAF. Stakeholders from technology providers, oil companies, and energy production could drive demand and help bridge the cost gap. For instance, airlines commit to buying SAF at a particular price or at a different price than traditional fuel jets. These factors could eliminate market risks for fuel suppliers. Next, airlines can work with B2B customers willing to pay for the decarbonization initiative. For example, airlines could use loyalty-program rewards as incentives for every customer to choose airlines that use SAF. Collaborations like these can help the industry accelerate its low carbon emission initiatives. These Top Airlines Commit to Using New Technologies Aviation industry leaders aim for 30% of the aircraft to operate with the help of new technologies by 2030. They strongly support the introduction of hydrogen and electric-powered planes to the market in order to reduce the industry's carbon footprint. So, let’s see the airlines and their commitment to creating a sustainable aviation future. Air New Zealand Air New Zealand’s initiatives such as True Target Zero accelerate the adoption of zero-emission aircraft worldwide. Air New Zealand is delighted to work with other industry leaders working towards net-zero goals. “Air New Zealand pledges to put low carbon solutions in place for all our smaller domestic and regional flights in the future. However, we know that the drive to decarbonize the aviation industry is impossible for one airline to tackle alone. Rather it’s a joint venture, and it's all about joining hands together.” -David Morgan, Chief Operational Integrity & Safety Officer, Air New Zealand Mokulele Airlines and Southern Airways Mokulele Airlines, the largest intra-state carrier in America, has already worked for many years as a maven to bring electrification to its air transportation system. “We are satisfied to join the World Economic Forum in seeking a global public commitment to promoting sustainable air travel.” -Stan Little, Chairman & CEO, Mokulele Airlines and Southern Airways Braathens Regional Airlines The airline has the ambition to make its flights fossil-free by 2030. The airline has included electric planes, and with its partnership with True Zero Aviation, it is taking steps to accelerate towards actual low carbon emissions. Can Aviation Make a Difference in the New Path of Development? There are a lot of positive aviation stories from all over the globe. However, aviation also has some barriers to the new path of low-carbon development. Nevertheless, aviation can undoubtedly make a difference by introducing technologies, implementing result-driven strategies, implementing the right tools, and many more. But from the customers' perspective, choosing to fly less can be another good reason to reduce an individual’s carbon pollution. The reduction can be up to 50% each year. So even avoiding long-distance flight travel could make a significant difference to aviation. Business travelers could adopt or choose to use virtual meeting technology. These could be other crucial factors limiting the carbon footprint in the atmosphere. Whatever you choose to opt for, it is high time to contribute to a more sustainable aviation sector for the future. Frequently Asked Questions How can airlines reduce their carbon footprint? Airlines can introduce more efficient aircraft. Efficiency in technological aspects, reduce flight delays, and increase the use of sustainable lower-carbon or alternative fuels. Also, investment plays a vital role here. They can invest in emissions initiatives and promote low-carbon travel. How can an airline achieve its carbon-neutral goals? An airline can explore hybrid and electric aircraft technology to reach carbon-neutral goals, reduce carbon emissions using SAF, and embrace fewer flight routes (distance). Do aircraft harm the atmosphere? Aircraft create very polluting elements and are highly challenging means of transport. Indeed, air traffic represents less than 2%-3% of the global CO2 emissions, yet it transmits direct CO2 emissions than cars on roads.

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DB Aviation provides aviation solutions nationwide. From charter to management, FBO services to maintenance, consulting to expert witness services, DB Aviation can address any number of needs.

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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."

Read More

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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