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AirJapan unveils its logo, livery, inaugural products and services

AirJapan, the new airline brand revealed in March 2022 for medium-haul international routes under ANA HOLDINGS INC., today unveiled select products and services to be introduced on its inaugural flights.

AirJapan offers comfortable cabin space at affordable prices under the brand concept of “Fly Thoughtful” by leveraging the experience of ANA Group’s full-service and low-cost carrier businesses. AirJapan intends to begin operating flights in February 2024 and expand its network over time, focusing on destinations in Asia. 

AirJapan’s new livery

“At AirJapan, we are dedicated to the passion of our passenger’s pursuits, which inspires us to create inflight products and services to foster the innovative spirit of those flying with us,” said Hideki Mineguchi, President of AirJapan. “We hope the launch of these new amenities create a unique and outstanding travel experience for our passengers.”

Seats

  • The cabin will be configured with 324 economy class seats made of premium Japanese faux leather, renowned for its lightweight, durable and soft texture. With a generous seat pitch of 32 inches and recline feature, the seat design will allow passengers to unwind and experience optimal comfort in-flight. 
  • AirJapan’s seat pitch of 32 inches (approx. 81 cm) is competitive to the industry standard offered by many other airlines. The wider front legroom and deeper reclining design provide passengers with a more comfortable in-flight experience.
  • ・ As an added convenience for smartphone and tablet users, Type-A and Type-C USB ports and tablet holders are also provided.
  • ・ The cabin interior and seats were designed by the British design company Acumen Design Associates, an award-winning product and transport design agency, renowned for its many innovations in aircraft interiors. The manufacturing was led by Safran, a world-leading supplier of quality seats to airlines worldwide.

Uniforms

AirJapan’s cabin attendant uniforms have been designed to express the brand’s “Fly Thoughtful” philosophy to value the unique qualities of our cabin attendants. The cabin attendants were involved from the earliest planning stages of the new uniforms, resulting in a design that embodies the brand’s core values of kindness to all . Notably, the uniforms have a borderless design, promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce by incorporating gender-neutral options and enabling variations in coordination.

  • Variations in the uniforms allow cabin attendants the flexibility to dress in their own unique way. There will be two types of bottoms- skirts and pants, and a choice of sneakers and leather shoes.
  • The design includes traditional Japanese cultural elements such as “knots” and “layers,” immersing passengers in Japanese culture from the first moment of boarding. The knot is represented by the brand’s color belt. In layering, a beautiful natural overlapping pattern was designed into details such as the hem of the skirt and sleeves.
  • As part of AirJapan’s commitment to sustainability, cabin attendant uniforms will be made in-part from plant-derived fabrics.

Boarding Music

  • When passengers board an AirJapan flight, they will hear music titled “Ai” with the traditional Japanese sounds of shakuhachi and koto created in collaboration with the Tokyo University of the Arts.

“This ensemble piece combines Japanese and Western instruments,” said Noel Hiyamizu, Composer, Tokyo University of the Arts, Graduate School. “The music’s traditional feel is contrasted by the modern vibe produced by the fresh grooves, and the classic Japanese sounds produced by the shakuhachi and koto complement the ensemble of the Western instruments and celebrate the beginning of a new journey. The title ‘Ai’ encompasses a wide range of meanings including ‘indigo,’ ‘love,’ ‘meetings’ and ‘encounters’ in Japanese.
Shakuhachi player Dozan Fujiwara shared, “You can tell that this piece was made with an excellent understanding of melody and instrumentation. It also perfectly captures the excitement of a ‘new start.’ I am so happy that customers living outside Japan will be able to enjoy this stunning piece of Japanese music.”

Inflight Meals and Drinks
AirJapan’s inflight meal service aims to create an unforgettable experience for our overseas customers’ trips to Japan with hopes they will revisit Japan in the future. At the same time, the meal service will help our Japanese customers rediscover the authentic tastes of Japan and feel at home.

  • AirJapan will offer menus for a set fee that may be reserved online in advance, and in addition, provide meals and snacks that can be purchased onboard the flight.
  • The specific menu selection will be announced at the start of ticket sales.
AirlinersGallery.com – Color Prints of Airliners

NYK Group to sell Nippon Cargo Airlines to ANA

NCA-Nippon Cargo Airlines Boeing 747-8KZF JA17KZ (msn 36140) AMS (Ton Jochems). Image: 960233.

NYK Group, the owner of Nippon Cargo Airlines-NCA, has decided to sell Nippon Cargo Airlines-NCA to ANA due to rising costs. The company issued this statement:

Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) hereby announces that on March 7, 2023, NYK entered into a certain memorandum of understanding with ANA HOLDINGS INC. to transfer entire shares of Nippon Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. (NCA), our consolidated subsidiary, to ANAHD.

NCA was established in 1978 with the participation of several companies as an airline specializing in international cargo. NYK has been involved in the management of NCA as a major shareholder since its establishment, and in 2010, NYK acquired all of the entire shares of NCA with the aim of becoming a comprehensive logistics company offering ocean, land, and air transportation. However, the continuous introduction of new aircraft to expand the operation and maintenance system, and the continuous training of personnel engaged in operation and maintenance required a considerable expenditure. In the highly volatile business environment of airfreight transportation, NCA has been facing challenges in expanding its business scale at a level that is commensurate with such costs.

ANAHD, in order to dramatically enhance its international air cargo network and products and services based in Japan and also with the aim to contribute to the development of global economic activities both in Japan and abroad, expressed their strong desire to have NCA (the only Japanese airline dedicated exclusively to air cargo transportation) added to its business portfolio and integrated and reorganized with the cargo business of the ANA group in the future, thereby realizing the goal to provide high-quality and internationally competitive air cargo transportation services that can respond to the increasing sophistication of the supply chain.

NCA recently has been providing value to the public through its air cargo transportation business under its mission statement of “Never Stop Logistics even during the Covid-19 Pandemic”. However, in order for NCA to achieve further growth and increase corporate value from a long-term perspective which include environmental responsiveness, we believe that it is the best option to transfer shares of NCA to ANAHD which operates the same business, and has been providing NCA with cooperative relation to strengthen its maintenance system. Therefore, as a result of a series of discussions with ANAHD, NYK and ANAHD have reached a conclusion and entered into a basic agreement today to mutually promote and further consider this Transaction.

(Content of the Basic Agreement)

(1)PurposeTo realize this Transaction, to confirm the status of discussions, and the intentions of NYK and ANAHD regarding the Transaction, which have been taking place by the date of execution of the Basic Agreement.
(2)100% AcquisitionANAHD will acquire all shares of NCA from NYK in a single transaction. A particular acquisition method (scheme) and other terms and conditions will be determined through continued discussion between NYK and ANAHD.
(3)Closing DateSubject to obtaining clearance under applicable competition laws and other conditions, the date of acquisition of NCA’s shares would be October 1, 2023, or a date to be separately agreed by NYK and ANAHD.

NCA currently operates a fleet of eight Boeing 747-8F freighter aircraft and also owns five Boeing 747-400F freighters that are operated by ASL and Atlas Air.

Top Copyright Photo: NCA-Nippon Cargo Airlines Boeing 747-8KZF JA17KZ (msn 36140) AMS (Ton Jochems). Image: 960233.

Nippon Cargo Airlines-NCA aircraft photo gallery:

NCA aircraft photo gallery

Avelo Airlines to add addititional destinations

Avelo Airlines Boeing 737-86N WL N233GE (N804VL) (msn 38030) BWI (Tony Storck). Image: 959539.

Avelo Airlines is expected to announce four additional destinations in the near future:

Greenville/Spartanburg, SC – service starts on June 7 to both Orlando and New Haven.

GSP flights start on June 7 to MCO and HVN

Manchester, NH

Memphis, TN

Rochester, NY

Avelo Airlines’ flight attendants

The company later made this announcement:

Avelo Airlines announced three new nonstop routes, extending Avelo’s U.S. network to 37 destinations:

  • Alabama’s Mobile International Airport (BFM) to Orlando’s most convenient airport – Orlando International Airport (MCO). Avelo will begin service at BFM with a special inaugural flight on Wednesday, May 31, followed by twice weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. BFM is the Gulf Coast’s newest airport. BFM’s downtown Mobile location makes it the city’s most convenient airport. Avelo will be the only airline operating scheduled service at BFM when it takes flight in May and the only airline offering nonstop service to Orlando from the greater Mobile region.
  • South Carolina’s Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) to MCO. Avelo will begin service between GSP and MCO on June 7 with twice weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays, then transitioning to Mondays and Fridays on June 23. GSP is Avelo’s third South Carolina destination, joining Charleston and Myrtle Beach. With the addition of BFM and GSP, Orlando will now serve 13 nonstop destinations. Introductory one-way fares start at $49*.
  • GSP to Southern Connecticut’s most convenient airport – Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN). This route will begin on June 22 with twice weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. GSP represents Avelo’s 15th destination from HVN. Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between Connecticut and GSP. Introductory one-way fares start at $49*.

Top Copyright Photo: Avelo Airlines Boeing 737-86N WL N233GE (N804VL) (msn 38030) BWI (Tony Storck). Image: 959539.

Avelo Airlines aircraft photo gallery:

Avelo Airlines aircraft photo gallery

Air Transat to fly to Lyon, France from Montreal year-round

Air Transat Airbus A321-271NX WL C-GOJC (msn 10521) YYZ (TMK Photography). Image: 956884.

Air Transat has announced that it will offer a nonstop service between Montreal (Trudeau) and Lyon next winter, thus becoming the only airline to operate this route year-round.

In winter 2023-2024, this route will operate three days a week from Montreal on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Air Transat already flies up to seven times per week between Montreal and Lyon in the summer season. It services a total of eight French cities including two on a year-round schedule, namely Paris and now Lyon.

The route will be operated with new generation Airbus A321LR aircraft featuring spacious cabins, state-of-the-art in-seat entertainment systems and the lowest fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and NOx) in their class.

Top Copyright Photo: Air Transat Airbus A321-271NX WL C-GOJC (msn 10521) YYZ (TMK Photography). Image: 956884.

Air Transat aircraft photo gallery:

Air Transat aircraft photo gallery

Flair Airlines releases its winter 2023 schedule with more flights to sunny destinations

Flair Airlines Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 C-FLER (msn 62874) BFI (Brian Worthington). Image: 959384.

Flair Airlines has announced the release of its winter 2023 schedule. The schedule features added depth across the network to give customers more choice, particularly to sunshine, at low fares.

This announcement includes several new routes, including Toronto to Puerto Vallarta (beginning October 29, 4x weekly), Kitchener-Waterloo to Puerto Vallarta (beginning December 16, 3x weekly), Calgary to Las Vegas (beginning October 30, 7x weekly), and Calgary to Phoenix (beginning October 30, 4x weekly). Flair will also be the only carrier to serve Ottawa to Las Vegas (beginning October 13, 2x weekly).

Existing service from Vancouver and Edmonton to Phoenix will move to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for the season, along with the new service from Calgary to Phoenix.

Top Copyright Photo: Flair Airlines Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 C-FLER (msn 62874) BFI (Brian Worthington). Image: 959384.

Flair Airlines aircraft photo gallery:

Flair Airlines aircraft photo gallery

Volaris reports demand increased by 21.2% with a 83% load factor in February

Volaris Airbus A320-271N WL N532VL (msn 7904) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 960185.

Controladora Vuela Compañía de Aviación, S.A.B. de C.V. (Volaris) reported its February 2023 preliminary traffic results.

In February 2023, Volaris’ capacity (measured in ASMs) increased by 20.4% year-over-year, while demand (measured in RPMs) increased by 21.2%; the result was a load factor increase of 0.5 pp YoY to 83.2%. Volaris transported 2.5 million passengers during the month, a 17.3% increase compared to February 2022. Demand in the domestic Mexican and international markets increased by 13.7% and 42.4%, respectively.

Enrique Beltranena, Volaris’ President and CEO said: “In line with what was stated in our last earnings call in February 22, we are seeing healthy traffic growth and solid booking curves for the upcoming spring season. In February, consumer demand remained robust across all of our markets, with particular strength observed in international regions. Jet fuel prices were slightly more favorable than the prior guidance provided to the market.”

Feb 2023Feb 2022VarianceYTD Feb 2023YTD Feb 2022Variance
RPMs (million, scheduled & charter)
Domestic1,6971,49313.7 %3,6303,13215.9 %
International75152842.4 %1,6601,19738.7 %
Total2,4492,02121.2 %5,2904,32922.2 %
ASMs (million, scheduled & charter)
Domestic2,0351,73617.2 %4,3063,72715.5 %
International90870828.2 %1,9321,55924.0 %
Total2,9432,44520.4 %6,2395,28618.0 %
Load Factor (%, scheduled, RPMs/ASMs)
Domestic83.4 %86.0 %(2.6) pp84.3 %84.0 %0.3 pp
International82.7 %74.5 %8.2 pp85.9 %76.8 %9.1 pp
Total83.2 %82.7 %0.5 pp84.8 %81.9 %2.9 pp
Passengers (thousand, scheduled & charter)
Domestic1,9841,75712.9 %4,2083,62516.1 %
International51937638.0 %1,15885735.1 %
Total2,5022,13317.3 %5,3644,48219.7 %

Top Copyright Photo: Volaris Airbus A320-271N WL N532VL (msn 7904) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 960185.

Volaris aircraft photo gallery:

Volaris aircraft photo gallery

China Airlines restores daily service between Ontario, California, and Taipei

China Airlines Airbus A350-941 B-18901 (msn 049) (Mikado Pheasant) ONT (Michael B. Ing). Image: 944973.

China Airlines will fully restore daily round-trip service between Southern California’s Ontario International Airport (ONT) and Taipei beginning March 26, 2023, ONT officials announced.on

The return of daily service connecting ONT and Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) marks a major milestone in Ontario’s recovery of international air service, all of which was suspended at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic nearly three years ago.

China Airlines will resume daily service to and from Southern California's Ontario International Airport later this month.
China Airlines will resume daily service to and from Southern California’s Ontario International Airport later this month.

After suspending service in March 2020, China Airlines resumed ONT-TPE flights in June 2021, gradually increasing service levels as demand returned. The resumption of daily service occurs at the same time that China Airlines marks its five-year anniversary at ONT.

The first carrier to offer nonstop, transoceanic passenger service to ONT after its transition to local ownership, China Airlines will upgrade the aircraft operating the route from an Airbus A350-900 to a larger Boeing 777-300ER, increasing seat capacity from 306 to 358 across premium business, premium economy and economy classes. The service is also scheduled to provide customers with seamless one-stop connections to additional destinations throughout Asia.

TPE is the primary international gateway to northern Taiwan’s more than 9 million residents, while ONT is the closest and most convenient international gateway airport for more than 10 million Southern California residents in San Bernardino, Riverside, northern Orange and eastern Los Angeles counties.

Domestic air travel through ONT surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2022, a milestone achieved by few other airports in California.

Top Copyright Photo: China Airlines Airbus A350-941 B-18901 (msn 049) (Mikado Pheasant) ONT (Michael B. Ing). Image: 944973.

China Airlines aircraft photo gallery:

China Airlines aircraft photo gallery

Finnair to have its biggest summer schedule since 2020

Finnair Airbus A319-112 OH-LVK (msn 2124) ZRH (Rolf Wallner). Image: 959423.

Finnair is hopping into spring with its biggest schedule since 2020, as the airline continues to recover its network and prepares for a busy summer.

During March, the carrier is expected to operate over 8,500 flights, the highest number since February 2020, according to data from the aviation analytics firm Cirium.

The number of scheduled Finnair flights in March 2023 is up by nearly a third (29%) compared to the same period last year, as the Nordic carrier restores routes around the world.

To complement the bumper schedule, Finnair is set to launch four new routes this spring, as the airline gears up for summer, offering customers a greater choice of destinations.

Customers looking to return to Japan can make use of the airline’s outstanding Osaka service which will relaunch on March 26, 2023, while those flying to destinations around Europe can enjoy new services to Bodø, Ljubljana and Milan Linate.

The network expansion means Finnair will serve 19 long-haul destinations this year across North America, Asia and the Middle East.

Finnair Airbus A350-900

From March 26, 2023, Finnair will also introduce their elevated long-haul experience on flights to Chicago, Delhi and Hong Kong, as the airline continues to refit its fleet of widebody aircraft with brand new cabins.

The €200 million investment includes a brand-new Business Class, exciting new Premium Economy cabin, and refreshed Economy Class as part of a major investment to enhance the customer experience. 

Finnair’s global services have been specifically timed to allow for easy connections onto the airline’s European destinations – including top UK airports, London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and the Irish capital Dublin.

Finnair offers smooth and easy transfers between flights from as little as 35 minutes, thanks to all flights operating from the same terminal.

Top Copyright Photo: Finnair Airbus A319-112 OH-LVK (msn 2124) ZRH (Rolf Wallner). Image: 959423.

Finnair aircraft photo gallery:

Finnair aircraft photo gallery

American’s CEO wants to match Delta’s new contract for its pilots

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom made this announcement to its pilots:

Hi, everyone. Delta’s pilots recently ratified a new four-year deal – one that is unprecedented in the history of collective bargaining. It’s a deal that profoundly changes the economics of a Delta pilot’s career. And that’s not just for Delta’s pilots.

That deal will determine compensation, benefits and quality of life for pilots across the rest of the industry. That means something extraordinary for American’s pilots.

That’s because our commitment – my commitment – remains unchanged: Our team members – including our pilots will be paid well and they will be paid competitively.

Let me be clear. American is prepared to match Delta pay rates and provide American’s pilots with the same profit-sharing formula as Delta’s pilots.

American’s pilots would receive pay increases of, on average, 21% in the first year of the new contract, begin participation in a much richer profit-sharing program and receive a bump in the company’s annual contribution to your 401(k) in the second year of deal.

The total pay increase for pilots is on average 40% in the fourth year of the deal. Let me give you a few examples of what this would mean.

By the end of the agreement, factoring in base salary and increased 401 (k) contributions from the company, a narrowbody captain at top of scale would make $475,000 a year – or $135,000 more a year than they earn today. A widebody captain
at top of scale would earn $590,000 a year – that’s $170,000 more a year than they earn today.

And participation in the new profit-sharing program will increase the payout pool from 5% of pre-tax earnings to 10%, and up to 20% of earnings above $2.5 billion.

And it’s not just about Delta pay. It’s about making sure this works for American’s pilots. You would see significant improvements to scheduling-related and quality-of-life items. That means improved trip construction and more certainty when it comes to replacement flying and recovery obligation.

A deal like this would be a game changer for our pilots. It would be worth more than $7 billion in incremental compensation, benefits and quality-of-life improvements over the term of the four-year agreement.

This would allow you to join Delta’s pilots as the industry’s leaders in pay, but with more quality-of-life improvements unique to American Airlines.

It is what you deserve, and it can be negotiated and made available quickly.

Like you, I’m extraordinarily excited about the coming new contract and all that it will mean for you and American.

As we proceed down the negotiation homestretch, I plan to reach out frequently to share updates and make sure you have the company’s perspective and our unequivocal commitment to completing a new contract expeditiously.

I want to ensure there is no question of our intent – that is, we want you to be paid as well as your peers. We want you to have the quality of life and benefits that matter most to you. And we don’t want you to have to wait.

Now, let’s get this deal done.

Thanks for listening, and thanks for all you do every day.

Winter snowstorm impacts U.K. airports

From Cirium:

Cirium Data

  • Schedules for the UK airports affected by snow (London City, Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted and Bristol) reveal the number of departures today, March 8
  • Below you can find the number of departures for each affected airport, including the corresponding number of seats:
AirportDeparturesSeats
Bristol6210,928
London City837,954
London Gatwick26149,025
London Heathrow598130,651
London Luton10820,908
London Stansted17132,172

Source: Cirium – www.cirium.co

Avelo Airlines is coming to Brownsville/South Padre Island, TX

Avelo Airlines continues to expand. The fast-growing airline will add Brownsville/South Padre Island, TX on May 17.

Two new routes from BRO

The airline will add two destinations from BRO; namely Hollywood/Burbank (BUR) and Orlando (MCO) which will allow the airline to connect its east and west coast operations.

JetBlue and Spirit respond to the DOJ decision to sue

JetBlue Airways Corporation and Spirit Airlines responded to the filing by the U.S. Department of Justice (the “DOJ”) seeking to block the companies’ merger:

JetBlue and Spirit will continue to advance our plan to create a compelling national challenger to the Big Four airlines, which control about 80% of the market after years of industry consolidation that the DOJ itself approved. By coming together, we will expand JetBlue’s unique offering – where customers do not have to choose between a low fare and a great experience – to boost competition nationally.

JetBlue has proven its ability to force the legacy carriers to react to JetBlue’s low fares and award-winning service. The DOJ itself said that “In the face of consolidation, JetBlue has provided an important and steadfast source of competition” and that “JetBlue’s reputation for lowering fares is so well known in the airline industry that it has earned a name: the ‘JetBlue Effect.’” (a).

JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes said: “Customers deserve a competitive airline marketplace and we will pursue this merger to ensure they get it, continuing to disrupt the legacy airlines with low fares and award-winning service that even the DOJ has applauded. We believe the DOJ has got it wrong on the law here and misses the point that this merger will create a national low-fare, high-quality competitor to the Big Four carriers which – thanks to their own DOJ-approved mergers – control about 80% of the U.S. market. There is too much at stake for the DOJ to prevent us from bringing the JetBlue difference to more customers in more markets.”

Spirit CEO Ted Christie said: “We disagree with the DOJ’s decision to seek to block the proposed merger, which will benefit consumers and employees. We will vigorously defend our position that a combined JetBlue and Spirit will be a game changer for customers nationwide, creating the most compelling national low-fare challenger to the dominant U.S. carriers. Together, we intend to democratize flying for travelers across the country – a goal we believe is worthy of the government’s support.”

ULCC Market Will Continue to Thrive as JetBlue Brings Much-Loved, Award-Winning Experience to Spirit Aircraft

Customers will win with both more JetBlue service and continued ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) expansion. JetBlue competes for all customers, and its Blue Basic fare offers customers a competitive, low-price option to save more money. In addition, because many Spirit aircraft will continue to fly in their current configuration during the retrofitting process after the transaction closes, there will be no short-term change in capacity.

As JetBlue retrofits Spirit’s aircraft with its leading customer-focused experience (e.g., adding more leg room and other onboard amenities), the combined airline will also be able to meaningfully increase aircraft utilization, offsetting seats removed in the retrofitting process by adding more flights. This will result in more seats with Blue Basic fares, and coupled with the rapid growth of the ULCCs, will create a more competitive environment and ongoing access for the most price-sensitive customers.

Hayes continued: “Putting the JetBlue’s increased legroom and free amenities on Spirit aircraft is a big win for consumers, and we can offset any loss of seats with increased flying and through ULCC growth. You shouldn’t have to choose between a low fare and a great experience, so the government should celebrate an expansion of JetBlue’s low fares and customer favorites like the most legroom in coach, free Wi-Fi, live seatback TV, and free snacks coming to Spirit’s fleet.”

Settlement Resolves Concerns About Florida; Ensures New Jobs and Additional Flights

We are extremely pleased to secure a settlement with the State of Florida supporting the merger between JetBlue and Spirit. The agreement ensures that the merger will deliver new jobs in Florida as JetBlue adds its low-fare flights in airports across the state.

  • The combined JetBlue and Spirit will increase seat capacity by at least 50% in both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando and will increase its aggregate seat capacity at all other Florida airports in which JetBlue or Spirit currently operate by at least 50%.
  • These commitments will bring hundreds of new daily flights to Florida, additional frequencies in over 35 markets, and service to nearly 50 new routes that are not currently served by either JetBlue or Spirit.
  • JetBlue will bring at least 1,000 new jobs to South Florida, at least 500 new jobs to the Orlando region, and at least 500 new jobs to support JetBlue’s expanded operations at airports throughout Florida.
  • JetBlue will extend its “no furlough” policy and provide increased compensation to Spirit Team Members.
  • JetBlue will maintain all Florida facilities currently in use by either JetBlue or Spirit, including Spirit’s planned future headquarters in Dania Beach, at their current or planned employment levels or greater for at least five years following the merger.

Hayes said: “We’re appreciative of Florida State Attorney General Moody’s willingness to recognize the opportunity for consumers and negotiate a fair settlement. It’s unfortunate the federal government and other states want to block the benefits of this merger, including significant job growth and the increased number of affordable flights that this combination unlocks.”

In fact, all JetBlue crewmembers and Spirit Team Members will benefit from a larger, more competitive airline:

  • Once combined, the airline will have more aircraft, a bigger network, more jobs, and more opportunities.
  • JetBlue has committed to strong protections for crewmembers and Team Members, including extending its 23-year no furlough commitment, committing to no displacements, and providing assurances around seniority protection.
  • By combining airlines, crewmembers and Team Members will have the opportunity to open the collective bargaining agreements and discuss topics important to them, including pay scales and benefits. JetBlue is incentivized to complete this process as fast as possible so the airline can receive a single operating certificate and begin functioning as one airline.

JetBlue-Spirit Merger Benefits Are Clear and Have Wide Support

The benefits of a JetBlue and Spirit combination have been widely recognized by consumer advocates, labor leaders, legislators, local government officials, industry experts, and academics. In addition, thousands of JetBlue crewmembers and Spirit Team Members have submitted letters of support to the DOJ and the U.S. Department of Transportation. We are confident a court, too, will recognize the merits of our case.

The rationale for a JetBlue-Spirit combination is clear:

  • JetBlue is 3x more effective than Spirit at bringing down competitor fares. JetBlue’s unique combination of low fares and great service is a competitive force that keeps the legacy carriers on their toes and results in lower fares.
  • JetBlue’s award-winning customer experience will reach more customers. JetBlue is loved by customers for its award-winning onboard service, featuring the most legroom in coach (b); free and fast Fly-Fi broadband internet (c); complimentary and unlimited name-brand snacks and soft drinks; and free, live DIRECTV® programming at every seat.
  • The combination will unlock long-term opportunities to add more destinations and routes that otherwise would not be possible. This new flying will bring increased choices, and low-fare competition to more cities and in legacy carrier hubs.
  • JetBlue and Spirit together will still be much smaller than any Big Four carrier. Even as the fifth-largest carrier, a combined JetBlue and Spirit will have only 9% market share, compared to 16-24% for each of the four largest airlines.
  • JetBlue and Spirit primarily compete with other carriers not each other. According to a third-party source published in April 2022 and reaffirmed with more recent data, JetBlue and Spirit only overlap on 11% or less of the nonstop routes on which both of them fly.
  • JetBlue has offered unprecedented upfront divestures to ensure ULCC growth. To address potential concerns around the limited overlap between JetBlue and Spirit, JetBlue has already made upfront commitments to divest all of Spirit’s holdings in Boston and New York, as well as five gates and related assets in Fort Lauderdale, which significantly reduces the already small number of nonstop overlap routes.
  • JetBlue will expand sustainability leadership. JetBlue expects to extend its industry-leading climate commitments to the combined airline, including its target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040, which is ten years ahead of the broader U.S. airline industry’s goal. As part of these efforts, JetBlue will leverage the combined company’s order book to accelerate the fleet transition to next generation, fuel-efficient aircraft and introduce regular use of sustainable aviation fuel into Spirit’s West Coast operations after closing.

Justice Department sues to block JetBlue’s proposed acquisition of Spirit

The Justice Department, together with Attorneys General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the State of New York, and the District of Columbia, filed a civil antitrust lawsuit today to block JetBlue Airways Corporation’s (JetBlue) proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of its largest and fastest-growing ultra-low-cost rival, Spirit Airlines, Inc. (Spirit). JetBlue and Spirit compete fiercely today on hundreds of routes serving millions of travelers. By eliminating that competition and further consolidating the United States airlines industry, the proposed transaction will increase fares and reduce choice on routes across the country, raising costs for the flying public and harming cost-conscious fliers most acutely.

The complaint, filed in the District of Massachusetts, alleges that Spirit’s low-cost, no-frills flying option has brought lower fares and more options to routes across the country, making it possible for more Americans – particularly price sensitive consumers who pay their own fares – to travel. JetBlue’s acquisition of Spirit would eliminate the “Spirit Effect,” where Spirit’s presence in a market forces other air carriers, including JetBlue, to lower their fares. The deal also would eliminate half of the ultra-low-cost capacity in the United States. This will lead to higher fares and fewer seats, harming millions of consumers on hundreds of routes.

“As our complaint alleges, the merger of JetBlue and Spirit would result in higher fares and fewer choices for tens of millions of travelers, with the greatest impact felt by those who rely on what are known as ultra-low-cost carriers in order to fly,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Companies in every industry should understand by now that this Justice Department will not hesitate to enforce our antitrust laws and protect American consumers.”

“Our complaint alleges that JetBlue’s acquisition of Spirit would particularly hurt cost-conscious travelers,” said Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta. “Ultra-low-cost carriers make air travel possible so more Americans can take a much-needed family vacation or celebrate or mourn together with loved ones. We allege that the proposed merger would lead to fewer seats and higher prices for travelers.”

“JetBlue’s proposed acquisition of Spirit eliminates a disruptive, low-cost option for millions of Americans. Whether they fly Spirit or not, travelers throughout the United States benefit from an independent Spirit because where Spirit competes, other airlines – including JetBlue – are forced to compete more vigorously by lowering fares, offering greater innovations, and delivering more consumer choice,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Doha Mekki of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This transaction occurs against the backdrop of years of airline consolidation in the United States.”

The complaint, which seeks to block the acquisition under Section 7 of the Clayton Act, alleges Spirit has been a particularly disruptive force, growing rapidly, introducing innovative products, and allowing customers to choose which services to purchase, all while charging customers very low fares. Spirit has forced larger airlines, particularly the already-low-cost JetBlue, to compete for customers by introducing unbundled, customizable ticket options and lowering their own fares, allowing more Americans to travel. If the acquisition is allowed to proceed, prices would increase on routes where the two airlines currently compete. This is particularly the case on the over 40 direct routes where the two companies’ combined market shares are so high that the deal is presumptively anticompetitive.

As further alleged in the complaint, in the last 10 years, Spirit has doubled its network in size and, before this deal, expected to continue expanding at a quick pace. The acquisition stops this future competition before it starts.

The acquisition would also make it easier for the remaining airlines to coordinate to charge travelers higher fares or limit capacity. JetBlue has already partnered with American Airlines, the largest airline in the world, through the Northeast Alliance, which the Department sued to block. Now, JetBlue is doubling down on consolidation, seeking to acquire and eliminate its main ultra-low-cost competitor, depriving travelers of yet another choice.

If allowed to eliminate the Spirit option, JetBlue would likely increase prices on every route where Spirit flies today. As a result, travelers who previously preferred Spirit’s lower-price, no-frills service would either have to pay more for amenities they do not want, or may no longer be able to afford to travel at all.

JetBlue is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Long Island City, New York. In 2022, it flew over 39 million passengers to approximately 107 destinations around the world, earning about $9.1 billion in revenue.

Spirit is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Miramar, Florida. In 2022, it flew over 38 million passengers to approximately 92 destinations in the Americas, earning about $5 billion in revenue.

JetBlue pleads its case for the merger approval for Spirit Airlines with updated data

JetBlue-Spirit merger

JetBlue Airways could be facing an uphill challenger to acquire governmental approvals for its proposed acquisition of Spirit Airlines.

JetBlue has made this case for the merger:

JetBlue has released updated data, which further supports the disruptive role of the airline on the dominant, higher-price legacy carriers, and the pro-competitive impact the merger with Spirit will have on the industry.

Analysis Adds to Compelling Rationale for JetBlue-Spirit Combination

  • JetBlue is over 3x more effective than Spirit at bringing down competitor fares. JetBlue’s unique combination of low fares and great service is a competitive force that keeps the legacy carriers on their toes and results in lower fares. This is the “JetBlue Effect,” an outcome specifically cited by the U.S. Department of Justice. An economic analysis found that JetBlue is proven on average to be over 3x as effective at lowering legacy carrier nonstop fares than Spirit. With the scale unlocked by combining with Spirit, JetBlue will be able to bring down legacy carrier fares on more routes, benefitting more travelers than if JetBlue and Spirit continued as standalone airlines.
  • JetBlue and Spirit primarily compete with other carriers not each other. According to a third-party source published in April 2022 and reaffirmed with more recent data, JetBlue and Spirit have very limited overlap, and only overlap on 11% or less of the nonstop routes on which both of them fly. Instead, both carriers primarily compete against the dominant Big Four airlines.
  • Proposed divestitures materially reduce limited overlap. To address potential concerns around the limited overlap between JetBlue and Spirit, JetBlue has already made unprecedented upfront commitments to divest all of Spirit’s holdings in Boston and New York, as well as five gates and related assets at Fort Lauderdale, to allow for allocation to other ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs). These divestitures significantly reduce the already small number of nonstop overlap routes flown by JetBlue and Spirit.
  • ULCCs are growing rapidly and have expressed high demand for divested assets. There is significant ULCC demand for all of JetBlue’s proposed divestitures, highlighting the attractiveness of these markets as the rapidly growing ULCCs seek additional opportunities for further growth. Further, the ULCCs are also well-positioned to continue their aggressive expansion and begin serving overlapping routes, with hundreds of aircraft on order that can service these routes.
  • The combination of JetBlue and Spirit plus the rapid growth of ULCCs will assure increased competition and low fares.JetBlue competes for all customers, and its Blue Basic Fare offers customers a competitive, low-price option to save more money. In addition, because many Spirit aircraft will continue to fly in their current configuration during the retrofitting process after the transaction closes, there will be no short-term change in capacity. As JetBlue retrofits Spirit’s aircraft with its leading customer-focused experience (e.g., adding more leg room and other onboard amenities), the combined airline will be able to meaningfully increase aircraft utilization, offsetting seats removed in the retrofitting process by adding more flights. This will result in more seats with Blue Basic Fares, and coupled with the rapid growth of the ULCCs, will create a more competitive environment and ongoing access for the most price-sensitive customers.
JetBlue tails at JFK

JetBlue-Spirit Combination Is Solution to the Lack of Competition for the Big Four

The Big Four airlines have a lock on about 80% of the market. JetBlue’s combination with Spirit allows it to create a compelling national challenger to these dominant airlines, while also ensuring ULCC options remain available in overlap markets.

While JetBlue, with its highly unique combination of low fares and great service, will be able to expand with new national breadth as a result of the transaction, it will remain a significantly smaller player than each of the Big Four airlines. According to the data, a combined JetBlue and Spirit will have only about 9% market share, compared to about 16-24% for each of the four largest airlines, but the added scale and ability to further grow will result in meaningful competition on more routes to more destinations and greater opportunities for Crewmembers and Team Members of both airlines.

Swoop announces new domestic routes coming this spring

Swoop (WestJet) Boeing 737-8CT SSWL C-GDMP (msn 60131) FLL (Ken Petersen). Image: 948839.

Swoop has announced its expanded summer schedule, with several new routes and added flight frequencies.

As part of this summer’s domestic expansion, Swoop will be adding new service between London, ON (YXU) and Abbotsford (YXX), and will restart seasonal service between Hamilton (YHM) and Charlottetown (YYG). The ULCC will also return popular service to Deer Lake, NL (YDF) with enhanced connectivity from southern Ontario, with flights operating six times weekly from Hamilton (YHM) and Toronto (YYZ).

Swoop will operate daily flights from southern Ontario into Halifax (YHZ) and St. John’s (NL) and near daily flights to Charlottetown (YYG). West coast connectivity will continue to soar with a 67% increase in flights operating to Abbotsford (YXX).

Route Peak 
Weekly
Frequency 		Lowest one-
way total 
price (CAD) 		Base 
Fare 
(CAD) 		Taxes & 
Fees (CAD) 
Hamilton to Deer Lake2x weekly$59.00$15.23$43.77
Deer Lake to Hamilton2x weekly$59.00$16.14$42.86
Toronto to Deer Lake4x weekly$79.00$28.84$50.16
Deer Lake to Toronto4x weekly$79.00$32.62$46.38
Hamilton to Charlottetown3x weekly$59.00$16.14$42.87
Charlottetown to Hamilton3x weekly$49.00$11.53$37.47
London to Abbotsford4x weekly$49.00$25.29$23.71
Abbotsford to London4x weekly$39.00$22.84$16.16
Toronto to Los Cabos2x weekly$179.00$65.88$113.12
Edmonton to Los Cabos2x weekly$119.00$8.68$113.32
Abbotsford to Los Cabos1x weekly$109.00$35.43$73.57
Edmonton to Puerto Vallarta2x weekly$139.00$28.66$110.34
Abbotsford to Puerto Vallarta2x weekly$119.00$55.43$73.57

*Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until March 7, 2023 or while seats last. | Prices displayed are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. | Seats at these fares are limited, and may not be available on all flights. | Non-refundable.

Top Copyright Photo: Swoop (WestJet) Boeing 737-8CT SSWL C-GDMP (msn 60131) FLL (Ken Petersen). Image: 948839.

Swoop aircraft photo gallery:

Swoop aircraft photo gallery

Northern Pacific to start flying on June 2 but not to Alaska

Northern Pacific Airways Boeing 757-2B7 WL N200UU (N628NP) (msn 27809) ONT (Michael B. Ing). Image: 958772.

Northern Pacific Airways is not going to Alaska, for now. The carrier’s previous business plan was to use Anchorage as a connecting waypoint linking the United States with Asia.

Instead the carrier has announced it will launch its first route on June 2, a much shorter route linking the current Ontario, CA (ONT) base with Las Vegas (LAS) according to Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting.

The service is basically a weekend service to Las Vegas as it will depart ONT on Fridays and return to ONT on Sundays.

The company officially made this announcement:

Northern Pacific Airways (NP),  America’s newest low-fare airline, is launching its first route and inaugural passenger flight this spring with Los Angeles-area service departing from convenient Ontario International Airport (ONT), with nonstop service to Las Vegas, NV, with fares starting from just $69* one way.

“This announcement today represents the achievement of a major milestone for Northern Pacific Airways,” said Rob McKinney, Northern Pacific Airways’ CEO. “The airline now has a live flight schedule, purchasable tickets, and refurbished aircraft ready to go, and I can’t wait for passengers to meet our team onboard and fly with us.” 

“I know that our weekend getaway flights will be an incredibly convenient and cost-effective way for people to enjoy themselves in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas,” said McKinney. “I’m especially thankful to our team around the world and especially to those in Anchorage, Alaska for their dedication and hard work.” 

Los Angeles flights will leave from Ontario International Airport (ONT) on Fridays at 14:00 local time and arrive into Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) approximately one hour later. Return flights are scheduled to leave Las Vegas at 14:00 on Sundays and arrive in Ontario at 15:00 local time.

Service commences June 2, 2023 and is available to be booked on select online travel agencies and through your travel agent.** Passengers can book directly on https://np.com/ 

Northern Pacific Airways flights will be operated by their fully refurbished Boeing 757-200 aircraft, which, in addition to its leather economy class seat cabin, includes a business class–style cabin with seats in a two-by-two configuration.

*Supply is limited and not available on every flight/every day. Fare prices, rules, routes, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.

**Travel agents can find fares on any of the major GDSs.

Top Copyright Photo: Northern Pacific Airways Boeing 757-2B7 WL N200UU (N628NP) (msn 27809) ONT (Michael B. Ing). Image: 958772.

Northern Pacific slide show:

Northern Pacific Airways aircraft slide show

WestJet adds increased flight frequencies to its summer schedule

WestJet Airlines Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 C-FQGG (msn 65426) PAE (Nick Dean). Image: 960212.

WestJet has announced significant increases to its summer schedule bringing more seats and additional flight frequencies to popular routes across its network. With nearly 600 daily departures during peak travel days, WestJet’s summer schedule enhancements will bring more opportunities for Canadians to travel seamlessly across the airline’s domestic, transborder and international network this summer.

Highlights of WestJet’s summer schedule increases over 2022: 

  • 64 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Regina
  • 46 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Saskatoon
  • 44 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Edmonton
  • 42 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Winnipeg
  • 27 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Calgary
  • 13 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Kelowna
  • 5 per cent increase in seat capacity to/from Vancouver

Enhanced flight frequencies across popular domestic and transborder routes:

Route2023 peak summer 
frequency		2022 peak summer 
frequency
Edmonton – Las Vegas11x weekly4x weekly 
Edmonton – Los Angeles 7x weekly4x weekly
Calgary – Denver4x weekly2x weekly
Calgary – Houston13x weekly7x weekly
Calgary – New York (JFK)7x weekly4x weekly
Vancouver – Saskatoon7x weekly4x weekly
Vancouver – Ottawa11x weekly5x weekly
Calgary – Yellowknife 14x weekly7x weekly
Calgary – Windsor 7x weekly3x weekly
Calgary – London, Ont.14x weekly7x weekly
Calgary – Montreal20x weekly13x weekly
Edmonton – Kelowna35x weekly27x weekly
Edmonton – Winnipeg20x weekly6x weekly
Edmonton – Yellowknife7x weekly3x weekly
Edmonton – Saskatoon14x weekly6x weekly
Edmonton – Regina 14x weekly6x weekly
Edmonton – Victoria20x weekly13x weekly
Edmonton – Halifax13x weekly7x weekly
Winnipeg – Thunder Bay13x weekly7x weekly
Winnipeg – Saskatoon12x weekly7x weekly

Top Copyright Photo: WestJet Airlines Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 C-FQGG (msn 65426) PAE (Nick Dean). Image: 960212.

WestJet aircraft photo gallery:

WestJet aircraft photo gallery