Runway Girl Network

Iberia has taken delivery of its first extra-long-range A321XLR, becoming the launch operator of the world’s newest single-aisle aircraft. The Spanish flag carrier will also begin updating its narrowbodies with Airbus’ ‘light-refit‘ Airspace L Bin retrofit solution starting in the first quarter of 2025, Airbus vice president cabin marketing Ingo Wuggetzer told journalists this week at the APEX Global EXPO. https://lnkd.in/eKMQK7hh

LONG BEACH — There’s a new inflight connectivity player in town, and it has already been tapped to deliver MEO/GEO satellite-based IFC service to Thai Airways International and Turkish Airlines. The company, called Neo Space Group (NSG), is a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and a key partner in SES Space & Defense's Open Orbits multi-orbit global network. NSG reveals it has over 300 aircraft in its backlog “from airlines across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia”. We interview company CEO Martijn Blanken to learn more. https://lnkd.in/eM82xh8G

LONG BEACH — Thai Airways International and Turkish Airlines are the latest carriers to sign on for Airbus’ linefit, supplier-furnished Airspace Link HBCplus Ka-band satellite-supported broadband inflight connectivity, bringing the total number of HBCplus customers to 13, Airbus management revealed today during a media briefing at the APEX Global EXPO. https://lnkd.in/eKpnKAYj

Unveiling the final piece of its longhaul passenger experience puzzle, Qantas is installing RECARO Aircraft Seating R3 economy seats — formerly the CL3810 — aboard the Airbus A330 aircraft that it intends to retain through the middle of the 2030s. Qantas international chief executive officer Cam Wallace explains that “they’re the same seats that will feature on our ultra long haul A350-1000ULR aircraft, so it will be a preview of the Project Sunrise flying experience.” https://lnkd.in/e9VkqCF8

Disability rights advocates, including Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), United Spinal Association and Rights on Flights have applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation's decision to levy a $50 million fine against American Airlines for its failure to provide “safe, dignified and prompt” wheelchair assistance — and for mishandling passengers’ wheelchairs. “This isn’t just a number; it’s a sign that the era of neglecting disabled travelers is coming to an end,” says Rights on Flights founder Sophie Morgan. https://lnkd.in/eDBddsa7

Seamless Air Alliance introduces Viper software to measure IFC performance; alliance member Alaska Airlines becomes Viper's first customer https://lnkd.in/ecvUnjJd

Newark Liberty International Airport’s sparkling new Terminal A is providing a roadmap for the The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey as planning commences to develop a new international terminal to replace EWR Terminal B and improve the customer experience at Terminal C. Munich Airport NJ LLC —which manages Terminal A’s operations, concessions, facilities & maintenance, and security — says it's excited to work on some of the shorter-term plans in preparation for the full expansion of Terminal B, and will be responding to all relevant RFPs. https://lnkd.in/eA4RzxTV

Qatar Airways has fitted SpaceX’s Starlink Aviation inflight connectivity solution to a Boeing 777-300ER (A7-BEV) and become the first airline in the world to fly the aircraft variant with the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-powered IFC service. Twelve 777s will be fitted before year-end; and the entire 777 fleet is expected to be equipped within 12 months. Qatar Airways' Airbus A350s will follow. https://lnkd.in/equvtxba

The Royal Air Force (RAF)'s Typhoon Display Team is diverse, with several women among the five full-time members and many volunteers on the program. Since the team gained its public display authority in May, team manager Flight Lieutenant Nina Wilkinson reckons her bloodstream has been 50% caffeine! RGN contributor Paul E Eden interviews Wilkinson about her exciting career and managing the team's busy summer season. https://lnkd.in/epuv6nmJ

In recent years, United Airlines has made several laudable moves to improve accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility as well as for those with hearing and visual disabilities. Now the US major has teamed up with the United Spinal Association to strengthen this crucial work. https://lnkd.in/eWBNd7in