Continental Airlines is to launch nonstop flights to London Heathrow from both its New York and Houston hubs on March 29, 2008, subject to government approval and slot approval.
Continental will offer twice-daily nonstop service to Heathrow from both Newark Liberty International Airport and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The airline will continue to offer nonstop flights to London Gatwick from both New York (twice daily) and Houston (daily), as well as Cleveland (daily, seasonal).
“At last we will be able to give our customers something they have long requested - the opportunity to fly to both London’s main airports with their preferred airline,” said Larry Kellner, Continental’s chairman and CEO. “At the same time, we will be able to show transAtlantic travelers already using Heathrow what they have been missing. We look forward to the chance to compete at Europe's most important business airport.”
The new Heathrow flights have been made possible by the Open Skies agreement between the U.S. and the European Union signed earlier this year, and by Continental’s acquisition of the necessary slots at Heathrow Airport. Until now, the airline has been prevented from operating to Heathrow by the restrictive U.S.-U.K. bilateral air services agreement. Continental has served Gatwick Airport since 1985.
Continental’s Heathrow flights will be operated using two aircraft types: the 283-seat Boeing 777-200, carrying 48 passengers in the BusinessFirst cabin and 235 in coach, and the 174-seat Boeing 767-200ER, with 25 BusinessFirst seats and 149 coach seats. The airline’s Gatwick flights will be operated using the 235-seat Boeing 767-400ER, with 35 BusinessFirst seats and 200 coach seats, and the 175-seat Boeing 757-200, carrying 16 passengers in the BusinessFirst cabin and 159 in coach.
Continental’s Heathrow flights will operate at Terminal 4, which will be the future base for all SkyTeam carriers operating at the airport.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Singapore Airlines Cargo launches Brussels - U.S. Flights
Singapore and Belgium recently concluded a landmark revision to the Air Services Agreement for cargo services. This agreement, which includes Seventh Freedom Traffic Rights, allows Singapore Airlines Cargo to operate flights between third countries without originating from, or returning to, Singapore.
With this revised agreement, Singapore Airlines Cargo has launched Boeing 747-400 freighter services, operating once weekly between Brussels and Chicago, and twice weekly circular routings from Brussels to Chicago to Los Angeles and back to Brussels.
This is the first time a Singapore carrier is utilizing Seventh Freedom Traffic Rights.
“These new Seventh Freedom traffic rights will enable Singapore Airlines Cargo to more effectively serve the Europe-USA freight market. Specifically, we can now operate more frequencies between these markets without having to increase frequencies between Singapore and Europe” said Mr Goh Choon Phong, President SIA Cargo.
“The adoption of these new liberal agreements is good for the air freight industry, because it allows carriers to match supply of capacity to markets where the demand for exports exists. Airlines can thus be more responsive to the market needs. Moreover, this enables airlines to utilize aircraft resources more efficiently.”
With this revised agreement, Singapore Airlines Cargo has launched Boeing 747-400 freighter services, operating once weekly between Brussels and Chicago, and twice weekly circular routings from Brussels to Chicago to Los Angeles and back to Brussels.
This is the first time a Singapore carrier is utilizing Seventh Freedom Traffic Rights.
“These new Seventh Freedom traffic rights will enable Singapore Airlines Cargo to more effectively serve the Europe-USA freight market. Specifically, we can now operate more frequencies between these markets without having to increase frequencies between Singapore and Europe” said Mr Goh Choon Phong, President SIA Cargo.
“The adoption of these new liberal agreements is good for the air freight industry, because it allows carriers to match supply of capacity to markets where the demand for exports exists. Airlines can thus be more responsive to the market needs. Moreover, this enables airlines to utilize aircraft resources more efficiently.”
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Hong Kong Express Airways launches Flights to Kuala Lumpur
Hong Kong Express Airways has launched its newest Southeast Asian scheduled service to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Buoyed by the success of its recently introduced Bangkok route which, in response to demand, has now become a daily service, the new Kuala Lumpur route will see daily flights operating from the outset.
Mr. Guo Ya Jun, President of Hong Kong Express Airways said, “Our southeast Asian routes are performing well hence our decision to launch with daily services to Kuala Lumpur. We are very excited to be entering a new country – especially one with so much potential for both inbound and outbound traffic.”
Arrivals into Hong Kong from Malaysia have increased significantly with double digit growth recorded for most months this year over the same period in 2006. Equally, Malaysia is proving a popular destination for mainland China’s outbound travellers with year on year arrivals surging 80% in the first six months of 2007.
The new Kuala Lumpur route is the second to be launched by Hong Kong Express Airways this month. The airline launched services to Yangon on November 2nd. Additional routes, and accordingly additional aircraft, will be added before the end of the year. Continuing its strategic growth programme, the airline is set to continue expansion at a similar rate in 2008.
Mr. Guo Ya Jun, President of Hong Kong Express Airways said, “Our southeast Asian routes are performing well hence our decision to launch with daily services to Kuala Lumpur. We are very excited to be entering a new country – especially one with so much potential for both inbound and outbound traffic.”
Arrivals into Hong Kong from Malaysia have increased significantly with double digit growth recorded for most months this year over the same period in 2006. Equally, Malaysia is proving a popular destination for mainland China’s outbound travellers with year on year arrivals surging 80% in the first six months of 2007.
The new Kuala Lumpur route is the second to be launched by Hong Kong Express Airways this month. The airline launched services to Yangon on November 2nd. Additional routes, and accordingly additional aircraft, will be added before the end of the year. Continuing its strategic growth programme, the airline is set to continue expansion at a similar rate in 2008.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Singapore Airlines Cargo launches E-Freight Programme
Singapore Airlines Cargo is pioneering the leap forward towards replacing the paper documents that typically accompany airfreight, with electronic information.
Over the past several months, the airline has been working closely with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and actively engaging key industry players like freight forwarders, ground handling agents, local customs administrations and airport authorities at several locations to prepare for the pilot programme.
On Monday, the paper-free era for SIA Cargo began with the simultaneous launch of e-freight shipments between Singapore and London, and between Singapore and Amsterdam. The airline also plans to commence e-freight trials between Singapore and Hong Kong from 16 November 2007.
Mr Goh Choon Phong, President SIA Cargo said, “Pushing for cost efficiency is a key priority for SIA Cargo, and the e-freight initiative will benefit all partners in the airfreight supply chain by eliminating cumbersome documentation that costs the industry over a billion dollars a year. I thank all the key industry players for their dedication, teamwork and commitment to make this historic project a success.”
“Moreover, replacing paperwork with electronic information is also in line with our corporate mission to keep our operations environmentally friendly,” he added.
Over the past several months, the airline has been working closely with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and actively engaging key industry players like freight forwarders, ground handling agents, local customs administrations and airport authorities at several locations to prepare for the pilot programme.
On Monday, the paper-free era for SIA Cargo began with the simultaneous launch of e-freight shipments between Singapore and London, and between Singapore and Amsterdam. The airline also plans to commence e-freight trials between Singapore and Hong Kong from 16 November 2007.
Mr Goh Choon Phong, President SIA Cargo said, “Pushing for cost efficiency is a key priority for SIA Cargo, and the e-freight initiative will benefit all partners in the airfreight supply chain by eliminating cumbersome documentation that costs the industry over a billion dollars a year. I thank all the key industry players for their dedication, teamwork and commitment to make this historic project a success.”
“Moreover, replacing paperwork with electronic information is also in line with our corporate mission to keep our operations environmentally friendly,” he added.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Courtyard by Marriott Hotel opens in Bangkok
Marriott International has opened the 318-room Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok under a management agreement with The Erawan Group. The hotel is Marriott’s ninth property in Thailand and fourth in Bangkok.
The Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok is located on Rajdamri Road. The hotel is in the vicinity of a number of fashionable restaurants, office centers, shopping complexes, embassies and diplomatic missions. The Bangkok International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive away and Bangkok’s elevated light-rail system which offers access to the rest of the city, is only a short walk from the hotel.
The Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok boasts 314 guestrooms and four suites. Each guestroom features a working desk, high-speed internet and 32-inch LCD flat screen TV. For the ultimate in relaxation, the hotel will soon feature “Treatments on Two” a two treatment room spa that boasts a menu including heated herbal massages and an invigorating coffee and spice scrub massage. In addition, the hotel offers a state-of-the-art fitness center with outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool.
The hotel features a wide range of delicious fare at its all-day dining restaurant, MoMo Café. For guests looking for a nightcap, the MoMo Bar offers classic cocktails, snacks and afternoon tea. In-room dining is also available.
The general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok is Nicholas Tse, while Thaveechai Lertaramratanais is the director of sales and marketing. To celebrate the opening, the hotel is offering a special introductory rate of 3,800 Baht (US$120).
The Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok is located on Rajdamri Road. The hotel is in the vicinity of a number of fashionable restaurants, office centers, shopping complexes, embassies and diplomatic missions. The Bangkok International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive away and Bangkok’s elevated light-rail system which offers access to the rest of the city, is only a short walk from the hotel.
The Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok boasts 314 guestrooms and four suites. Each guestroom features a working desk, high-speed internet and 32-inch LCD flat screen TV. For the ultimate in relaxation, the hotel will soon feature “Treatments on Two” a two treatment room spa that boasts a menu including heated herbal massages and an invigorating coffee and spice scrub massage. In addition, the hotel offers a state-of-the-art fitness center with outdoor swimming pool and whirlpool.
The hotel features a wide range of delicious fare at its all-day dining restaurant, MoMo Café. For guests looking for a nightcap, the MoMo Bar offers classic cocktails, snacks and afternoon tea. In-room dining is also available.
The general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Bangkok is Nicholas Tse, while Thaveechai Lertaramratanais is the director of sales and marketing. To celebrate the opening, the hotel is offering a special introductory rate of 3,800 Baht (US$120).
Saturday, November 03, 2007
American Airlines increases Fuel Surcharge
American Airlines has increased its fuel surcharges on fares in the continental United States by $10 one way and $20 round trip in an effort to recover some of the costs associated with recent large increases in the price of crude oil and jet fuel.
Just since August, average spot market crude oil prices have risen by nearly $14 a barrel. That increase translates into more than $1 billion of additional annual expense for the airline.
Crude oil prices on the spot market averaged $85.66 per barrel for all of October, but have already moved higher. Since January 2007, refined jet fuel prices on the spot market have risen nearly 44%.
Just since August, average spot market crude oil prices have risen by nearly $14 a barrel. That increase translates into more than $1 billion of additional annual expense for the airline.
Crude oil prices on the spot market averaged $85.66 per barrel for all of October, but have already moved higher. Since January 2007, refined jet fuel prices on the spot market have risen nearly 44%.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Business travel demand will exceed supply, American Express says
NEW YORK (AP) — Demand for business travel services will exceed supply in 2008, driving increases in rates for airfare, hotels, car rentals and corporate meetings, according to the annual Global Business Travel Forecast from American Express.
"In 2008, we expect a domestic trip inclusive of airfare, car rental and hotel stay will increase 6%, or $63, bringing the average trip cost to a total of approximately $1,110," Mike Streit, vice president and global leader for American Express Business Travel Advisory Services said in a statement. "For an international trip, the increase is expected to be nearly 7%, or approximately $205, bringing the cost of an average trip to $3,171."
In North America, American Express predicts a 1-5% increase in economy class airfares, a 4-7% increase in mid-range hotel rates and a 2-4% increase in car rental costs.
Factors contributing to overall increases in average costs include premium pricing for airplane seats with flat beds or more legroom; heavy demand for hotels in certain U.S. cities like New York, Washington and Chicago, where rates could rise as much as 14%, and more taxes and fees on car rentals, the report said.
However, the report noted that in air travel, increased competition and low-budget airlines could help keep the lid on prices.
The report also concluded that high demand and slow growth of supply for hotel rooms around the world will not only force prices up but may also lead to more minimum and maximum stay requirements, as well as instances when corporate rates do not apply.
The forecast said that companies will be increasing their focus on responsible business travel practices related to safety, security and the environment. But the report noted that while companies may start measuring and offsetting the "carbon footprint" of their employees' travels, carbon offsetting is likely to be a "short-term solution."
Carbon offsets are typically payments made to offset the carbon emissions generated by travel. The payments usually support renewable energy and conservation projects.
Projections for the global forecast were based on statistical forecasting, market research, economic trends, interviews with American Express analysts and other data.
"In 2008, we expect a domestic trip inclusive of airfare, car rental and hotel stay will increase 6%, or $63, bringing the average trip cost to a total of approximately $1,110," Mike Streit, vice president and global leader for American Express Business Travel Advisory Services said in a statement. "For an international trip, the increase is expected to be nearly 7%, or approximately $205, bringing the cost of an average trip to $3,171."
In North America, American Express predicts a 1-5% increase in economy class airfares, a 4-7% increase in mid-range hotel rates and a 2-4% increase in car rental costs.
Factors contributing to overall increases in average costs include premium pricing for airplane seats with flat beds or more legroom; heavy demand for hotels in certain U.S. cities like New York, Washington and Chicago, where rates could rise as much as 14%, and more taxes and fees on car rentals, the report said.
However, the report noted that in air travel, increased competition and low-budget airlines could help keep the lid on prices.
The report also concluded that high demand and slow growth of supply for hotel rooms around the world will not only force prices up but may also lead to more minimum and maximum stay requirements, as well as instances when corporate rates do not apply.
The forecast said that companies will be increasing their focus on responsible business travel practices related to safety, security and the environment. But the report noted that while companies may start measuring and offsetting the "carbon footprint" of their employees' travels, carbon offsetting is likely to be a "short-term solution."
Carbon offsets are typically payments made to offset the carbon emissions generated by travel. The payments usually support renewable energy and conservation projects.
Projections for the global forecast were based on statistical forecasting, market research, economic trends, interviews with American Express analysts and other data.
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