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Virgin Atlantic 100% SAF flight powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines

eNethersole — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 14:00:23 +0000

Flown on a Boeing 787, using Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, the flight marks a world first on 100% SAF by a commercial airline across the Atlantic. The milestone flight was made possible by a Virgin Atlantic-led consortium, including Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Imperial College London, University of Sheffield, ICF and Rocky Mountain Institute, in partnership with Department for Transport.

SAF has a significant role to play in the decarbonisation of long haul aviation, and pathway to Net Zero 2050.

While other technologies such as electric and hydrogen remain decades away, SAF can be used now. Today, SAF represents less than 0.1% of global jet fuel volumes and fuel standards allow for just a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines. Flight100 will prove that the challenge of scaling up production is one of policy and investment, and industry and government must move quickly to create a thriving UK SAF industry.

As well as proving the capabilities of SAF, Flight100 will assess how its use affects the flight’s non-carbon emissions with the support of consortium partners ICF, Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), Imperial College London and University of Sheffield. The research will improve scientific understanding of the effects of SAF on contrails and particulates and help to implement contrail forecasts in the flight planning process. Data and research will be shared with industry, and Virgin Atlantic will continue its involvement with contrail work through RMI’s Climate Impact Task Force, which is part-funded by Virgin Unite.

The SAF used on Flight100 is a unique dual blend; 88% HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) supplied by AirBP and 12% SAK (Synthetic Aromatic Kerosene) supplied by Virent, a subsidiary of Marathon Petroleum Corporation. The HEFA is made from waste fats while the SAK is made from plant sugars, with the remainder of plant proteins, oil and fibres continuing into the food chain. SAK is needed in 100% SAF blends to give the fuel the required aromatics for engine function. To achieve Net Zero 2050, the innovation and investment needed across all available feedstocks and technologies must be harnessed to maximise SAF volumes as well as continuing the research and development needed to bring new zero emission aircraft to market.

Rolls-Royce recently announced that it has proved all its in-production civil aero engine types are compatible with 100% SAF. This fulfils a commitment, made in 2021, to demonstrate there are no engine technology barriers to the use of 100% SAF.

Simon Burr, group director of engineering, technology & safety, Rolls-Royce, said: “We are incredibly proud that our Trent 1000 engines are powering the first ever widebody flight using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel across the Atlantic today. Rolls-Royce has recently completed compatibility testing of 100% SAF on all our in-production civil aero engine types and this is further proof that there are no engine technology barriers to the use of 100% SAF. The flight represents a major milestone for the entire aviation industry in its journey towards net zero carbon emissions.”

Sheila Remes, vice president of environmental sustainability, Boeing, said: “In 2008 Virgin Atlantic and Boeing completed the first commercial SAF test flight on a 747 and today we will accomplish yet another significant milestone utilising a 787 Dreamliner. This flight is a key step toward our commitment to deliver 100% SAF-compatible airplanes by 2030. As we work toward the civil aviation industry’s net-zero goal, today’s historic journey highlights what we can achieve together.”

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Thu, 30/11/2023 - 12:00

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Rolls-Royce announced this week that a Virgin Atlantic flight flew on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) London Heathrow to New York.

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ATM 2024 to showcase latest trends in luxury travel

eNethersole — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:51:02 +0000

Tourism experts from around the globe will shine a spotlight on the sub-theme of luxury at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, which will take place from Monday 6 to Thursday 9 May at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

High-spending travellers are willing to pay extra for experiences that do not detrimentally impact the communities or ecosystems in which they are located, according to YouGov’s Global travel & tourism whitepaper 2023: Luxury travel post-pandemic. More than three-fifths (61%) of UAE residents say they are willing to pay a premium for responsible, eco-friendly and sustainable tourism experiences, demonstrating that consumers no longer see the luxury segment as being limited to indulgence.

With brands such as Kerzner International’s Atlantis The Palm, Mandarin Oriental Dubai (BVI) Limited, Jumeirah International LLC, Air Charter Service, Hyatt International, Mayfair Jets, Minor Hotel Group, Nirvana Holding, The Leading Hotels of the World and Desert Gate Tourism having already confirmed their attendance, ATM 2024 will welcome a diverse selection of luxury travel exhibitors from across the Middle East and beyond. The exhibition will provide an ideal forum for attendees from every corner of the globe to explore the shifting landscape of luxury travel, including future trends and innovations, entrepreneurial drivers and opportunities for growth.

Danielle Curtis, exhibition director, Arabian Travel Market, said: “By incorporating luxury travel as a sub-theme at ATM 2024, we are aligning our event with the future of travel. This segment will act as a lens through which we can view not only extravagant experiences but also eco-conscious choices, cultural preservation, and cutting-edge technologies. ATM embodies a vision where indulgence harmonises with ethics, setting a new standard for the travel industry.”

The value of the global luxury travel sector stood at an estimated $1.28 trillion in 2022, according to figures from Grand View Research. The market is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% during the period 2023-30. This upward trend is reflected in the Middle East, where the majority of respondents from both the UAE (74%) and KSA (69%) told researchers from Marriott Bonvoy that they were planning to spend more on their vacations in 2023 compared to previous years.

Innovation is also acting as a major driver within the luxury travel segment. Technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionising the way visitors preview destinations, hotels and activities before booking, while artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are facilitating increasingly personalised recommendations, tailored experiences and anticipatory services for high-net-worth travellers.

“The Middle East has maintained and strengthened its reputation as a global hub for luxury tourism and travel over the past 12 months,” Curtis added. “It has been exciting to see this segment evolve throughout the region as national leaders have continued to invest in the development of luxury tourism infrastructure in a bid to drive economic diversification. ATM 2024 will provide an environment in which to examine these trends in greater detail, and I cannot wait to hear what valuable insights delegates have to offer.”

In line with its theme, ‘Empowering Innovation: Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, the 31st edition of ATM will once again host policymakers, industry leaders and travel professionals from across the Middle East and beyond, encouraging them to forge new relationships, exchange knowledge and identify innovations that can reshape the future of global travel and tourism. From startups to established brands, the upcoming show will highlight how innovators enhance customer experiences, drive efficiencies, and accelerate progress towards a net-zero future for the industry.

Building on ATM 2023’s ‘Working Towards Net Zero’ theme, environmentally responsible travel will represent another key focus next year. Informed by the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), which will take place in Dubai from tomorrow 30 November, ATM 2024 will explore how innovation can be leveraged to help achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), creating a greener travel and tourism sector for future generations.

More than 40,000 travel trade professionals, including 30,000 visitors, attended the 30th edition of ATM in May 2023, setting a new show record. The exhibition attracted more than 2,100 exhibitors and representatives from over 155 countries, providing a global platform for unveiling ATM’s net-zero pledge.

Held in conjunction with Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024’s strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.

Posted date

Wed, 29/11/2023 - 12:00

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The Middle East’s luxury travel market is evolving rapidly, extending beyond opulent experiences to incorporate heritage, innovation and sustainability.

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IndiGo implements Special VFR Operations to/from Deoghar Airport

eNethersole — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 15:45:03 +0000

With this approval, IndiGo has become the first Indian carrier that will be operating at Deoghar Airport in visibility as low as 3600 meters for Airbus fleet and 3200 meters for ATR fleet.

Captain Ashim Mittra, Senior Vice President, Flight Operations, IndiGo said: “IndiGo has been facilitating air travel at Deoghar Airport since July 2022, which is a crucial hub in the eastern sector of India, and strategically located to connect the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. However, the VFR operations at Deoghar Airport were limited to daylight hours with a visibility requirement of 5000 meters. This limitation was challenging during winter season when the visibility often falls below 5000 meters leading to a significant number of flight cancellations.”

“To overcome this limitation, IndiGo sought and obtained permission to undertake Special VFR operations at Deoghar Airport. IndiGo conducted a successful flight validation for Special VFR operations on November 10, 2023, paving the way for actual flight operations on scheduled flights. This is a crucial step to mitigate disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions, especially during the winter season.”

He added: "The successful implementation of Special VFR operations is a testament to the continuous efforts and collaboration between regulatory authorities, airlines and the airport operators to strengthen Indian Aviation. This marks a significant milestone for Deoghar Airport, enhancing its operational capabilities and ensuring smoother air travel for the region. IndiGo is proud to set one more milestone in the field of Indian aviation."

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Tue, 28/11/2023 - 12:00

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IndiGo has been granted approval for Special Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations to/from Deoghar Airport (VEDO) by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

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Airbus flies fully automated helicopter with tablet

eNethersole — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 09:32:11 +0000

The technologies, developed by Airbus UpNext, are controlled by a touchscreen tablet and aim to simplify mission preparation and management, reduce helicopter pilot workload, and further increase safety.

The Airbus Helicopters’ FlightLab flew fully automated from lift-off, taxi, takeoff, cruise, approach and then landing during a one hour test flight by following a predefined route. During this flight, the pilot monitored the system which is able to detect unforeseen obstacles and automatically recalculate a safe flight path. Whenever necessary the pilot can easily override the controls through the tablet and resume the mission afterwards. The flight test period ran from the 27th of October through to the 22nd of November at the Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Marignane, France.

“This successful demonstration of a fully autonomous flight from takeoff to landing is a great step towards the reduced pilot workload and simplified HMI that the Airbus Urban Air Mobility team intends to implement on CityAirbus NextGen. It could also have immediate applications for helicopters in low level flights close to obstacles thanks to the information provided by the lidars* on board,” said Michael Augello, CEO of Airbus UpNext.

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Tue, 28/11/2023 - 12:00

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Airbus has successfully tested a simplified human machine interface (HMI) along with advanced autonomous features through a project code-named Vertex.

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IndiGo unveils new ticket booking platform

eNethersole — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:21:58 +0000

Developed in-house by IndiGo's digital team, it efficiently addresses customer queries in 10 different languages and offers a first of a kind platform for booking tickets across the entire network.

Early results from the soft launch indicate a remarkable 75% reduction in customer service agent workload, showcasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the bot. Furthermore, 6Eskai, makes the booking process extremely simple, using natural language conversations to guide our customers seamlessly through the end to end booking journey.

The AI bot offers 1.7 trillion parameters, allowing it to answer a diverse range of commonly asked questions with ease. IndiGo's team of data scientists have painstakingly done a thorough research on generative pretrained transformers (GPT) and programmed the bot using extensive prompt engineering to mimic human behaviour, respond to emotions, and even infuse humour into interactions, ensuring a more engaging and entertaining experience for its customers.

6ESkai is capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including booking tickets, applying promotional discounts, booking addons, performing web check-ins, helping in seat selection, planning trips, answering FAQs, and connecting customers with an agent. Moreover, the bot is not only capable of understanding written or typed language, but also verbal instructions using speech-to-text models.

Summi Sharma, senior vice president ifly and customer experience, IndiGo said: "We are thrilled to introduce 6Eskai, our AI-driven chat assistant, as part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing customer experience. This innovative tool will offer seamless support to our passengers, providing quick and personalised assistance for their travel needs, reflecting IndiGo's dedication to technological advancements and customer-centric services."

Posted date

Mon, 27/11/2023 - 12:00

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IndiGo has launched an AI chatbot, 6Eskai, powered by the groundbreaking GPT-4 technology.

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SalamAir launches five destinations in India

eNethersole — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:36:44 +0000

The airline said the expansion into the Indian market has been made possible with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Of Sultanate Oman and close collaboration with Oman Air.

SalamAir said in a statement: “The CAA played a pivotal role in facilitating this strategic expansion, which is poised to significantly enhance the connectivity between Oman and India, thereby providing travellers with more convenient travel options.”

Posted date

Wed, 22/11/2023 - 12:00

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SalamAir is preparing to launch operations in five key Indian destinations; Hyderabad, Calicut, Jaipur, Trivandrum, and Lucknow.

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IndiGo surpasses milestone of 2000 daily scheduled flights

eNethersole — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 07:03:48 +0000

This makes IndiGo, the first airline in the country and marks a significant leap in operational capacity. According to the latest OAG Data for October’23, IndiGo is among the top 10 airlines globally in both frequency and by seat capacity, further validating this achievement and showcasing the airline's continued growth trajectory on both domestic and international stages.

IndiGo now has 2000+ scheduled daily flights which include cargo operations, as well as CAPF & Army charters. The airline has achieved this figure in just 17 years since starting operations back in 2006, setting new benchmarks in operational efficiency, reliability, and customer orientation.

Pieter Elbers, chief executive officer of IndiGo, said: "As we celebrate this remarkable milestone of surpassing 2000 scheduled daily flights, we reflect on IndiGo's journey of reshaping the Indian aviation landscape. This milestone is more than a numerical feat; it's a strategic leap positioning us for enhanced connectivity and a redefined passenger experience. Our commitment to giving wings to the nation is palpable in our mission to connect people and aspirations across India. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our valued customers and partners for their continuous support, as we look forward to soaring to new heights together.”

Posted date

Tue, 21/11/2023 - 12:00

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IndiGo has achieved a historic landmark by surpassing the milestone of over 2000 planned flights a day.

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Gulfstream completes world’s first trans-Atlantic flight using 100% SAF

eNethersole — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 06:38:01 +0000

Accomplished on November 19, the flight took place on a Gulfstream G600 aircraft, which departed the company’s headquarters in Savannah and landed six hours, 56 minutes later at Farnborough Airport in England.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney PW815GA engines, both using 100% SAF, this mission showcases the potential for aviation’s future use of renewable fuels, which feature lower carbon, sulfur and aromatics. The data collected from this endurance flight will help Gulfstream and its key suppliers gauge aircraft compatibility with future low-aromatic renewable fuels, particularly under cold temperatures for extended flight durations.

“Gulfstream is innovating for a sustainable future,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “One of the keys to reaching business aviation’s long-term decarbonisation goals is the broad use of SAF in place of fossil-based jet fuel. The completion of this world-class flight helps to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability mission and create positive environmental impacts for future generations.”

The SAF used on the flight was produced by World Energy and delivered by World Fuel Services. It was comprised of 100% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (neat HEFA), which has at least 70% lower lifecycle CO2 emissions than fossil-based jet fuel, helping to reduce aviation’s impact on climate. Additionally, this zero added aromatics fuel has a reduced impact on local air quality and very low sulfur content, which can reduce non-CO2 environmental impacts.

“Gulfstream continues to break new ground in the sustainable aviation space, and we applaud them for completing this mission as we work to validate the compatibility of our engines with unblended SAF,” said Anthony Rossi, vice president, Sales & Marketing, Pratt & Whitney Canada.

Posted date

Tue, 21/11/2023 - 12:00

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Gulfstream Aerospace has announced it has successfully completed the world’s first trans-Atlantic flight using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

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Dubai Airshow 2023: Air bp expands in India

eNethersole — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 05:38:42 +0000

Owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India, Rajkot was inaugurated on July 27 and officially began operations in September. It is bp-Jio’s 31st location in India and the fuel provider has already completed 575 fuellings at the airport to date.

Digant Borah, airport director, Rajokot International Airport, said: “Air bp-Jio excelled in making the fuel station ready in a short space of time with all regulatory compliances and approvals. The successful commencement of flight operations at Rajkot International Airport was very much dependent on Air bp-Jio’s service.”

Posted date

Tue, 14/11/2023 - 12:00

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Air bp, one of the sponsors at this year’s airshow, has expanded its joint venture, Air bp-Jio, in India with a new fuel facility at Rajkot International Airport in Hirasar.

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