Public Statement

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    American Airlines and American Eagle Significantly Expand and Enhance Los Angeles Service

    American and American Eagle to Increase Departures by 28 Percent and Add 10 New Domestic and International Destinations from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

    American Eagle to Expand its LAX Terminal with $20 Million in Improvements

    Additions Strengthen Cornerstone Strategy in Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami and New York and Complement oneworld Alliance Relationships

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 20 /PRNewswire/ — American Airlines and American Eagle have strengthened their commitment to Los Angeles with plans to add 10 new destinations – one international and nine domestic – for a total of 33 additional round trips beginning April, 5, 2011.

    New destinations from LAX include (total number of daily flights):

    Albuquerque, N.M. (3)
    Boise, Idaho (2)
    El Paso, Texas (2)
    Houston Bush Intercontinental (3)
    Oklahoma City, Okla. (1)
    Phoenix, Ariz. (4)
    Shanghai, China* (1)
    Salt Lake City, Utah (3)
    Sacramento, Calif. (4)
    Tucson, Ariz. (3)

    Four of the new routes will be served by American Eagle’s Bombardier CRJ-700 fleet, which now features a First Class cabin. All four existing daily flights to Denver also will be upgraded with the addition of CRJ-700 service.

    In addition to Los Angeles-Shanghai, American will offer seven additional daily domestic flights from Los Angeles, including two flights each to Dallas/Fort Worth and Miami and one flight each to Chicago, Las Vegas and Orlando. By spring 2011, American and American Eagle will offer 153 daily departures at LAX – a 28 percent increase from today’s schedule. The airlines also have flexibility to add more flights and destinations in the future.

    “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to superior service and travel choices for our customers to and from Los Angeles,” said Virasb Vahidi, American’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Los Angeles has long been an important market for American and American Eagle and is a critical international gateway for us as well as our oneworld® Alliance partners.”

    American’s latest network enhancements at LAX will complement the 18 international departures offered by oneworld alliance members at the airport, including to such markets as Auckland, New Zealand; Hong Kong; Lima, Peru; London; Melbourne, Australia; San Salvador, El Salvador; and Tokyo.

    With the Los Angeles expansion, American continues to strengthen its “cornerstone” network strategy that focuses more flying to and from the markets of Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami and New York. These markets represent top U.S. commerce centers and are significant international gateways, which provide the best connections to American’s global network and the networks of its partner airlines in the oneworld Alliance.

    “I would like to thank American Airlines for strengthening their commitment to Los Angeles by bringing more flights into our great City and spurring economic development by investing $20 million into their terminal,” Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said. “Los Angeles, an international global destination, is proud to partner with American Airlines, a world-class airline, to connect more people and to provide more jobs for hard-working Angelenos.”

    American estimates that its expanded service will add approximately $600 million a year in local economic impact, increasing its total annual economic impact in Los Angeles to approximately $6 billion.

    American has a rich historical connection to California. On Jan. 25, 1959, American became the first airline to offer coast-to-coast jet service with Boeing 707 flights between Los Angeles and New York’s Idlewild Airport. In 2009, American and American Eagle served more than 9 million customers either traveling to, from or through LAX. The airline continues to grow in the state and, with the additions announced today, American will operate 267 daily nonstop flights to 35 destinations from California, serving cities throughout the United States as well as destinations in the Pacific, Europe, Canada, Mexico and Central America.

    Today’s announcement is the latest example of American’s commitment to Los Angeles. Earlier this month, American, British Airways and Iberia announced the official launch of their Joint Business between North America and Europe by introducing a new Los Angeles – Madrid route (operated by Iberia) that will begin service in spring 2011. American will codeshare on that flight, allowing customers to buy a ticket on AA.com and earn AAdvantage® miles on the journey.

    Also this month, American received approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to launch service between Los Angeles and Shanghai. The new route will enhance American’s service offering to China when it launches in April 2011, using 247-seat Boeing 777 aircraft which feature 16 First Class, 37 Business Class and 194 Economy Class seats.

    Last month American announced new choices for customers between Los Angeles and Mexico through a new codeshare agreement with Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. Pending regulatory approval, later this year American intends to offer customers the ability to purchase tickets on Alaska Airlines or Horizon Air from or through Los Angeles to the following markets: Mexico City**; Guadalajara**; La Paz (operated by Horizon Air); Loreto (operated by Horizon Air); Mazatlan; Puerto Vallarta; Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Manzanillo.

    Approximately $20 Million in Facility Upgrades Also Planned

    Last year, American Eagle opened a new terminal at LAX. As a result of today’s announcement, American Eagle plans to expand the facility by adding four more gates, an investment of approximately $20 million. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2011, giving American Eagle 10 gates at LAX. The American Eagle terminal upgrade will complement American’s amenities at Terminal 4, which features 13 gates, expanded curbside check-in with 13 skycap positions, 42 self-service machines, mobile check-in capability, including boarding pass and bag tag issuance, and an Admirals Club with a First Class Flagship Lounge. The airlines offer direct shuttle service between the two terminals.

    First Class on American Eagle

    With the introduction of nine First Class seats on its Bombardier CRJ-700 fleet, American Eagle now will be able to offer Los Angeles customers a premium product with the same level of outstanding service customers experience on American Airlines. Customers on Los Angeles flights to/from Denver, Houston Intercontinental, Oklahoma City, Phoenix and one daily flight to/from Albuquerque will be able to enjoy Eagle’s new complimentary First Class dining service that includes a Continental breakfast with cereal or hot oatmeal and yogurt and a lunch or dinner that includes a fresh salad or a sandwich and dessert. First Class customers receive warm, cleansing towels and mixed nuts prior to their meals, which are served on china. On flights of shorter duration, beverage service will be accompanied by a gourmet snack mix.

    “We are proud to begin First Class service to this important cornerstone market,” said Dan Garton, President and Chief Executive Officer of American Eagle. “We have served the Los Angeles community for nearly 25 years and are very proud to continue our service and support of the community in which we live and work.”

    *Service announced 10/06/10

    ** Through the Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air codeshare agreement American and American Eagle will be selling both local (Los Angeles area) and connecting service (to/from another American or American Eagle flight from other cities) on these two routes. For all other markets listed, American will sell only connecting service.

    Statements in this release contain various forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent the Company’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events. When used in this release, the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “indicates,” “believes,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “targets” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Similarly, statements that describe our objectives, plans or goals, or actions we may take in the future, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s plans, expectations, and intentions for future operations and upgrades to its facilities, and estimates and expectations regarding the impact and benefits of future operations and upgrades to its facilities and services. All forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to the Company on the date of this release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations. The following factors, in addition to other possible factors not listed, could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements: the materially weakened financial condition of the Company, resulting from its significant losses in recent years; very weak demand for air travel and lower investment asset returns resulting from the severe global economic downturn; the Company’s need to raise substantial additional funds and its ability to do so on acceptable terms; the ability of the Company to generate additional revenues and reduce its costs; continued high and volatile fuel prices and further increases in the price of fuel, and the availability of fuel; the Company’s substantial indebtedness and other obligations; the ability of the Company to satisfy certain covenants and conditions in certain of its financing and other agreements; changes in economic and other conditions beyond the Company’s control, and the volatile results of the Company’s operations; the fiercely and increasingly competitive business environment faced by the Company; potential industry consolidation and alliance changes; competition with reorganized carriers; low fare levels by historical standards and the Company’s reduced pricing power; changes in the Company’s corporate or business strategy; extensive government regulation of the Company’s business; conflicts overseas or terrorist attacks; uncertainties with respect to the Company’s international operations; outbreaks of a disease (such as SARS, avian flu or the H1N1 virus) that affects travel behavior; labor costs that are higher than those of the Company’s competitors; uncertainties with respect to the Company’s relationships with unionized and other employee work groups; increased insurance costs and potential reductions of available insurance coverage; the Company’s ability to retain key management personnel; potential failures or disruptions of the Company’s computer, communications or other technology systems; losses and adverse publicity resulting from any accident involving the Company’s aircraft; interruptions or disruptions in service at one or more of the Company’s primary market airports; the heavy taxation of the airline industry; changes in the price of the Company’s common stock; and the ability of the Company to reach acceptable agreements with third parties. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

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    Boeing Press Release: High-Speed Broadband System Certified on Boeing Business Jet

    ATLANTA, Oct. 20 — Boeing Business Jets today announced the first certification and installation of Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s in-flight wireless high-speed broadband service, eXConnect, on a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) 737 aircraft.

    As part of the installation agreement, Panasonic will use the privately owned BBJ for ongoing testing and validation, as well as for live demonstrations. The system supports a wide range of passenger and crew applications including very high-speed internet access to passengers anywhere in the world at speeds of up to 50 Mbps to the aircraft. That’s about 100 times the speed of the fastest Internet currently available on airplanes.

    “The eXConnect system installed on the Boeing 737 continues to exceed our expectations, and we are very excited to show customers, OEMs and other groups the true broadband experience made possible by our Ku solution,” said Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer, Panasonic Avionics Corporation.

    The fuselage-mounted antenna communicates through a global network of satellites and provides higher data rates than tail-mounted antennas traditionally used on business aviation aircraft. The BBJ is ideally suited for carrying a larger and more capable antenna than traditional sized business jets so global coverage is possible.

    “Since its introduction to the market, the Boeing Business Jet has always provided something more than the traditional corporate jet manufacturers have been able to provide – more space, more comfort, more productivity and more utility,” said Boeing Business Jets president Steve Taylor.

    “Panasonic’s new high-speed data system opens up a new capability to our customers that will help satisfy the growing need for passengers to be connected all the time, including in the air,” said Taylor.

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    Press Release: The MENA Challenge: Coping with Growth

    Date: 20 October 2010

    Cairo – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for coordinated efforts to deal with the challenges of growth in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). “Over the last decade, the carriers of the Middle East and North African region have grown from 5% of global traffic to 11%. Planned aircraft purchases of $200 billion over the next decade will support this growth into the foreseeable future. This expanding global presence brings with it the challenge of playing a larger role in the global aviation community,” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

    The financial situation of the MENA carriers is improving. For 2010, IATA is forecasting a bottom line improvement of $1 billion on the $600 million that the region’s carriers lost in 2009. “We are expecting the region to make $400 million profits this year. A more cautious approach to capacity is helping to drive this improvement. While demand is in line for a 21% increase over last year, the capacity increase has been limited to 15.9%,” said Bisignani in a keynote address to the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO) Annual General Meeting in Cairo, Egypt.

    For 2011, IATA expects a fall in global profitability to $5.3 billion from the $8.9 billion that airlines are expected to make in 2010. IATA expects MENA carriers to follow the trend with a reduced 2011 regional profit of $300 million. The small profit will be partially driven by an expected capacity expansion of 10.6% outstripping demand growth of 10.4%.

    Bisignani highlighted four challenges of growth for the region:

    Safety: The region’s hull loss rate for Western built aircraft slipped from zero accidents in 2006 to 3.32 accidents per million flights in 2009. “At 4.6 times the global average of 0.71, that is a concern. The region’s rapid growth must be accompanied with a strong safety record,” said Bisignani who challenged MENA’s governments to adopt IATA’s two safety audits—the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO)—as part of national requirements. Egypt was the first government in the world to mandate IOSA, joined later by Lebanon, Syria and Bahrain, and soon Jordan. Today, 35 MENA carriers are on the IOSA registry, including all 26 IATA members. MENA has also taken a leadership role on ISAGO. Lebanon will make it mandatory for ground handlers from June 2011 and 13 ground handlers in the region are already on the registry.

    Infrastructure: The MENA region is planning airport construction totaling $100 billion, which includes at least eight new runways in the Gulf region. “The industry and governments are investing in infrastructure to support the economic benefits of aviation’s growth. But what is being built and planned on the ground is not being matched in the air. Military airspace covers 60% of the region, limiting capacity and forcing inefficient routings. We must cooperate to open more of the region’s skies,” said Bisignani. IATA is also working on projects to redesign airspace in the Gulf area, facilitate more traffic for East-West traffic across North Africa, support ultra-long haul operations with more efficient routings, and complete the implementation of reduced vertical separation minima (RVSM) across MENA by bringing Iraq on board.

    Technology for Simplifying the Business: MENA is on target to meet the December deadline for 100% implementation of bar coded boarding passes which promises global savings of $1.5 billion. Airlines are 92% complete while airports are at 90%. The region is home to seven airports that are already operating 100%: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain, Muscat, Doha, Kuwait and Sharjah. Two countries in MENA are participating in IATA e-freight—the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt. The UAE is a global top performer as the originating country for 21% of all e-freight shipments. “Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have all passed the high-level assessment and are expected to launch in 2011. The only hurdle is for governments to adapt their local regulations to facilitate modern business practices. E-freight is a great competitive advantage with the capability to save the industry $4.9 billion,” said Bisignani.

    Government Involvement: Bisignani urged governments in the region to keep costs in check and create the regulatory framework to balance burgeoning long-haul opportunities with short-haul regional liberalization. Bisignani praised Tunisia’s decision, following an IATA intervention, to eliminate its 10% import tax on jet fuel which conflicted with the Chicago Convention. Bisignani urged the region to set correct precedents with privatized infrastructure. “We are now working with Jordan to curb unilateral increases in taxes and charges that followed privatization of its airports. To keep competitive, governments much ensure meaningful consultation and agreed investments plans,” said Bisignani, who also encouraged the region to take a more proactive approach to liberalization. “I see cutting-edge examples of liberalization as key markets such as Morocco, Jordan and Tunisia build open-sky agreements with Europe. The Damascus Convention of 2004 provides a framework for regional liberalization, but the number of countries ratifying it is disappointing.”

    Environment: Bisignani noted the important outcomes of the 37th Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) that placed aviation ahead of all other industries in dealing with climate change. “Governments confirmed ICAO’s leadership role in managing aviation’s emissions and agreed on a collective aspirational goal to improve fuel efficiency by 2% to 2050, while capping emissions from 2020 with carbon-neutral growth. They also agreed to develop a framework for economic measures that minimize market distortions, treat air transport in line with other sectors, ensure that emissions are accounted for only once and recognize past and future efforts,” said Bisignani.

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    August 2010 Passenger Airline Employment Down 1.7 Percent from August 2009

    Tuesday, October 19, 2010 – U.S. scheduled passenger airlines employed 1.7 percent fewer workers in August 2010 than in August 2009, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reported today. This is the 26th consecutive decrease in full-time equivalent employee (FTE) levels for the scheduled passenger carriers from the same month of the previous year (Tables 1, 2). FTE calculations count two part-time employees as one full-time employee

    BTS, a part of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration, reported that the August FTE total of 377,835 for the scheduled passenger carriers was 6,469 below that of August 2009

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    Southwest Airlines Announces $100,000 Donation to National Wildlife Refuge Association

    DALLAS, Oct 18, 2010 —

    Today, Southwest Airlines announced that the airline reached its goal of donating $100,000 to the National Wildlife Refuge Association (NWRA) as a result of its “Help Us Help Them” giving program in which Southwest donated $1 for every EarlyBird Check-In(TM) purchased from Sept. 21, 2010 through Oct. 4, 2010. With the donation from Southwest Airlines, the National Wildlife Refuge Association will:

    • Work to permanently protect important wildlife habitat for Gulf Coast species like brown pelicans, seabirds, and sea turtles through land acquisition and conservation easements. This includes important beaches for nesting sea turtles, seabird nesting areas, and warm water springs for West Indian manatees;
    • Support habitat restoration work that will clean up soiled habitat and restore marshlands, beaches and uplands that are important for migratory birds, marine mammals and a spectrum of shellfish that are not just important for wildlife, but which serve as an engine of the Gulf Coast economy;
    • Build grassroots efforts to continue Gulf Coast recovery efforts over the long term by strengthening volunteer organizations and encouraging volunteer clean-up activities. This includes planting dune grass, cleaning up oil residue and damage, monitoring species recovery, and helping volunteers take action with their local and national representatives to keep fighting for the Gulf;
    • Advocate with decision-makers for increases in funding to restore the Gulf and provide needed support for our national wildlife refuges, cornerstones of wildlife conservation in America and premier destinations for people to enjoy wildlife.

    “This generous contribution by Southwest Airlines and its many loyal customers will make a difference for the incredible variety of wildlife that call the Gulf home,” said Evan Hirsche, President of the NWRA. “Pelicans, sea turtles, manatees and a great many other species impacted by the oil spill stand to benefit from Southwest’s commitment.”

    As the Official Airline of the NWRA, Southwest is proud to support the Association’s goal of conserving America’s wildlife heritage for future generations. To view photos of wildlife efforts and read a blog post, visit www.blogsouthwest.com.

    “We are honored and privileged to support the work of the NWRA, and we couldn’t think of a better way to contribute to their efforts in the Gulf and around their refuge system than by donating time and funds,” said Linda Rutherford, Southwest Airlines Vice President of Communication and Strategic Outreach. “We thank our Employees for giving their time to volunteer at refuges, and we thank our Customers for the wonderful response to our EarlyBird Check-In program during this giving period, which made the donation possible.”

    The National Wildlife Refuge Association is committed to building strategic relationships that further its goal to strengthen the ecological integrity of our national wildlife refuges and thus ensure a diverse spectrum of plants and wildlife well into the future.

    EarlyBird Check-In is a low-cost option (just $10 each way) that gives Southwest Airlines Customers the convenience of automatic flight checkin. EarlyBird Check-In Customers have a better opportunity to select a preferred seat and have greater access to overhead bin storage for carryon luggage than the general boarding Customers. The partnership with the NWRA also commemorates the program’s one-year anniversary.

    For more information about the EarlyBird Check-In giving program, visit www.southwest.com. To learn more about the National Wildlife Refuge Association, visit www.refugeassociation.org.

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    American Airlines, Fort Worth Airpower Foundation Present Sky Ball Fundraiser for North Texas Military Families

    Eighth Annual Gala Supports Families in Need, Pays Tribute to ‘Greatest Generation’ World War II Veterans

    Actor Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band to Headline Program

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 18 — American Airlines and the Fort Worth Airpower Foundation (FWAPF) are once again partnering to present the eighth annual Sky Ball fundraiser in support of North Texas military families and to honor service members, veterans and their families.

    This year’s patriotic celebration, “A Tribute to the Greatest Generation: Remembering our Veterans from World War II,” will be held Saturday, Oct. 23, at American’s Alliance Airport Maintenance and Engineering Base in Fort Worth. Some 600 American Airlines and American Eagle employee volunteers will support the event, which will include a headline performance by award-winning actor and musician Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band.

    “We look forward to this event each year because it provides an opportunity for all of us at American and American Eagle Airlines to support two important long-standing commitments: Paying tribute to the brave men and women who defend our country, and giving back to our community,” said Bob Reding, American’s Executive Vice President – Operations. “The continued success of Sky Ball can be attributed to our dedicated employee volunteers, the generosity of this community, and our great relationship with the Fort Worth Airpower Foundation. We are so glad to be able to provide assistance to the many military families in North Texas that sacrifice so much for our country.”

    A gourmet dinner that evening will be the work of renowned Executive Chef Heath Miles, Chef-in-Residence at Texas Motor Speedway, and ONEHOPE wines will provide its Yellow Ribbon Red Zinfandel at the event. ONEHOPE donates 50 percent of profits from Red Zinfandel sales to support our troops. American Airlines will proudly serve this wine inflight in premium cabins on transcontinental and Hawaii flights during November.

    The Fort Worth Airpower Foundation is dedicated to supporting North Texas military families, and Sky Ball proceeds help provide financial assistance. Many of these families struggle to meet their financial obligations when their loved ones are called to active duty and, in many cases, for multiple tours overseas. Support comes in many forms, including financial aid for those with a family member who has been deployed; departure and welcome-home receptions; support for welfare and relief projects of the units based in North Texas; and care packages and gifts to soldiers wounded in battle who are recuperating at military hospitals.

    “It is important to recognize that, while thousands of North Texans fight for our freedom overseas, many of their families fight to survive at home,” said Mike Snyder, Chairman of the Airpower Foundation and Co-chair of Sky Ball VIII. “American Airlines and the Fort Worth Airpower Foundation understand the importance of supporting these families, and we will continue to assist them as much as possible because they deserve nothing less.”

    A number of World War II veterans will be welcomed as special guests, including U.S.S. Indianapolis survivor Cleatus Lebow, Tuskegee airmen Don Elder and Calvin Spann, and Glenn McDuffie, the sailor kissing a nurse in the iconic Life magazine cover photograph taken in Times Square on V-J Day in 1945. Odean “Deanie” Parrish, a courageous Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) will also be present at the gala. Photos of American Airlines employees’ family members who served in World War II will be on display throughout the hangar, and a special tribute slide show will be presented in their honor.

    Additional celebrity guests appearing at Sky Ball VIII will include singer/songwriter Radney Foster, who will perform his song, “Angel Flight.” A special rendition of “Requiem for a Soldier,” made famous by the World War II HBO miniseries Band of Brothers, will be performed by Broadway star Laurie Gayle Stephenson. Renowned actress Jane Russell will also make a guest appearance at the event, and actor James McEachin will present a brief dramatic vignette, “Fallen Comrade.”

    Other features at the gala will include:

    A World War II static aircraft display
    A portrait presentation by the American Fallen Soldiers Project to the family of a Normandy Beach casualty
    The legendary military grog bowl ceremony, a tribute to the nation’s service members and veterans
    A special swearing-in ceremony of 20 new recruits to various branches of the military

    Another exciting attraction, B-25 bomber flights, will be available for purchase at the event, with all proceeds from the flights donated to History Flight and the Fort Worth Airpower Foundation. History Flight is a nonprofit organization that provides the public the opportunity to fly aboard World War II aircraft, with all proceeds funding History Flight’s recovery expeditions dedicated to bringing home the remains of service men Missing in Action in remote World War II battle sites. American is currently assisting History Flight with the search and recovery of MIA U.S. troops, notably Marines who fought at Tarawa in the Pacific Theater.

    All Sky Ball proceeds directly benefit the Navy-Marine Corps, National Guard Relief Fund and families of those stationed at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Fort Worth. Last year’s event raised more than $600,000 for families of deployed troops.

    Sponsorships and tables can be purchased on the Sky Ball VIII website, www.skyballviii.com.

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    FAA Certifies Enhanced Vision System on Boeing Business Jet

    ATLANTA, Oct. 18 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) Business Jets today announced that the Rockwell Collins Enhanced Vision System (EVS) was certified last week by the Federal Aviation Administration on a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), an Air National Guard C-40. The Rockwell Collins EVS is available to current and future BBJ operators as a post-production modification.

    The EVS capability enhances situational awareness for pilots during approach, landing, taxi and takeoff by presenting an image of the external environment on the Head-up Guidance System (HGS) and head-down displays.

    The system uses an infrared sensor to improve the pilots’ view of the runway in various conditions including bad weather. This aids pilots to avoid terrain and clearly identify the runway, including any obstructions, early in the approach. It also assists pilots with “black hole” approaches to airports not equipped with precision landing aids and with landing and maneuvering at unfamiliar airports.

    “I had the pleasure of flying several of the flights during the EVS development flight-test program with the Air National Guard and the Rockwell Collins team. That experience gave me the chance to see the EVS advantages first hand,” said Steve Taylor, Boeing Business Jets president.

    “Given the variety of destinations visited by most BBJ operators, the improved situational awareness that EVS provides can be a great advantage,” said Taylor.

    “The truly collaborative effort between Rockwell Collins, Boeing, the Air National Guard and the entire development team has made EVS a reality for BBJ owners and operators who have been eagerly awaiting this capability,” said David Austin, senior director, HGS for Rockwell Collins.

    Installation of the EVS system on BBJs requires that the airplanes receive an upgrade to the HGS 4000, a modified radome, and the infrared camera.

    The EVS system will be demonstrated on the Air National Guard BBJ at DeKalb Peachtree Airport during the National Business Aviation Association convention, Oct. 19-22, 2010.

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    FAA Breaks Ground on Air Traffic Control Tower in Frederick, Md. Paid For with Recovery Act Dollars

    For Immediate Release
    October 18, 2010

    WASHINGTON–The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced over $5 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act dollars will be used to build a new air traffic control tower at Frederick Municipal Airport in Frederick, Md.

    "General aviation plays such an important role at all levels of our nation’s economy," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Recovery Act projects are helping upgrade our aviation infrastructure so the system can continue to run safely and efficiently."

    "These Recovery Act dollars will improve the safety and efficiency of Frederick’s airport while providing a boost to Maryland’s economy," said Michael Huerta, deputy administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, at a ground breaking ceremony.

    The $5.3 million Recovery Act project will pay for the construction of an air traffic control tower, access road and other infrastructure at one of Maryland’s largest airports. The Frederick Municipal Airport currently does not have an air traffic control tower.

    Approximately 200 aircraft are based at Frederick Municipal Airport, a reliever airport for Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The airport handles more than 135,000 aircraft operations annually.

    The Recovery Act has provided an additional $35 million in upgrades at airport runways and aircraft parking aprons in and around the Washington Metropolitan Area.

    Nationwide, $1.3 billion in Recovery Act money has been made available for both airport improvement projects and air traffic control facility and system upgrades. Because of low construction bids for projects, more Recovery Act dollars were available for additional facilities and equipment and airport projects. These Recovery Act grants have been distributed to airports that serve commercial passengers, cargo and general aviation.

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    NTSB ANNOUNCES AGENDA FOR AIRLINE CODE-SHARING SYMPOSIUM

    The National Transportation Safety Board has published the agenda for the symposium on airline code-sharing, which will take place on October 26-27 in the NTSB Board Room and Conference Center (429 L’Enfant Plaza, SW, Washington, DC 20594). The symposium is open to all and free to attend (there is no registration). The event will also be webcast live on www.ntsb.gov.

    A description of the symposium, a detailed agenda, and biographies of the presenters, panelists and moderator are all available at http://go.usa.gov/aZ6

    The media advisory announcing the symposium is available athttp://go.usa.gov/aZF

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    Press Release – FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt Breaks Ground on Recovery Act Funded Oakland Control Tower

    For Immediate Release
    October 15, 2010

    OAKLAND, Calif. – Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Randy Babbitt helped break ground today for a new air traffic control tower at Oakland International Airport funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Oakland International Airport ARRA grant, totaling $33.2 million, is the FAA’s largest, single Recovery Act award.

    “This Recovery Act project will make a difference for the Oakland area economy,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “People will be put to work building an environmentally friendly tower that will better serve the airport and the community.”

    The Recovery Act grant will pay for construction of the 236-foot-tall tower and a 13,000 square-foot base building, as well as some equipment for the facility.

    “This brand new, modernized tower will give air traffic controllers a better view of the airfield and help improve airport efficiency,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “The Recovery Act is allowing us to make needed investments at airports around the country.”

    Two air traffic control towers currently serve Oakland International Airport. A 158-foot-tall tower on the southern portion of the airfield was built in 1962 as a part of a terminal expansion project. In 1972, construction of a large hangar blocked some views from the south tower, requiring the Port of Oakland to build a second tower to handle traffic on the north runways.

    Replacing both towers with a single one will improve air traffic operations and reduce operating costs. The FAA expects to start using the new tower in 2013.

    The new tower will feature a number of environmental benefits, including a covered parking structure with solar panels on the roof of the base building, which will provide power for the tower and its electrical systems. The tower also will have a geothermal heating system and a rainwater storage system.

    In addition to the Oakland tower funding, the FAA provided a total of $37 million in Recovery Act grants to Bay Area airports.

    Oakland International Airport received a $14.9 million ARRA grant to rebuild a large apron area used by airlines and cargo carriers and to reconfigure a taxiway. By replacing old apron pavement, the project will improve efficiency and allow larger aircraft to use the taxiway.

    San Francisco International Airport received ARRA grants totaling $14.5 million to resurface two runways. The projects leveled out the runways, which tend to settle over time because of ground conditions. The new asphalt concrete resurface also will prevent unexpected runway shutdowns due to pavement breakdown, and will guard against crumbling pavement debris that can damage aircraft.

    In San Jose, a $5.2 million Recovery Act grant is funding the extension of a taxiway at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport. This project will improve safety by eliminating the need for private planes to cross a runway while taxiing to an engine run-up area.

    An additional $2.4 million in Recovery Act funds is modernizing and making safety upgrades at area facilities and airports.

    Nationwide, $1.3 billion in Recovery Act money has been made available for both airport improvement projects and air traffic control facility and system upgrades. These Recovery Act grants have been distributed to airports that serve commercial passengers, cargo and general aviation.

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    Boeing PR: Boeing Joins Fuselage Sections for First 747-8 Intercontinental

    EVERETT, Wash., Oct. 15 — Boeing moved closer this week toward completing assembly of the first 747-8 Intercontinental as mechanics in Everett, Wash., loaded the forward and aft fuselage sections to join with the wing and center section.

    The 747-8 fuselage is 250 feet 2 inches (76.3 meters) long, which is 18 feet 4 inches (5.6 meters) longer than the 747-400. The stretch provides space for 51 additional seats to accommodate 467 passengers in a typical three-class configuration and offers 26 percent more cargo volume.

    "Final body join is an important milestone for the 747 program," said Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager of Airplane Programs in Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "It is a major step toward completing the structural integration and building out our all-new interior. We now have the first real look at the size and distinctive shape of the 747-8 Intercontinental. This is going to be a superb airplane for our customers both from an aesthetic and a performance perspective."

    The 747-8 is the new high-capacity 747 that will give airlines the lowest operating costs and best economics of any large airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. The airplane also features a 787 Dreamliner-inspired interior that will offer passengers a greater feeling of space and comfort.

    The 747 program has orders for 109 747-8 Freighter and Intercontinental airplanes. Thirty-three of those are for the 747-8 Intercontinental, with orders coming from Lufthansa, Korean Air and eight VIP customers. The first 747-8 Intercontinental delivery is scheduled for late 2011 to a VIP customer.

  • |

    Airbus Press Release: Airbus opens new supplier village extension in Beijing

    The Hua-Ou Aviation Support Centre in Beijing, a joint venture between Airbus and China Aviation Supplies Holding Company (CAS), has opened a new extension at its supplier village to provide enhanced and more efficient support for operators of Airbus aircraft in China – including information and communications technology (ICT) and other logistics support.

    The extension provides 500 square metres of additional office space, along with a new workshop area and office for the ICT team – which can offer bilingual 24-hour support to suppliers. An inauguration ceremony marking its formal opening was held today, which was followed by a Supplier Village Business Forum.

    “As a part of the Airbus global support network, the Hua-Ou Aviation Support Centre has played an important role in supporting the operators of Airbus aircraft in China,” said Laurence Barron, President of Airbus China and Vice Chairman of the Hua-Ou Aviation Support Centre Board. “We appreciate the strong support from the suppliers and we are sure that by working together more closely with them, we will offer more efficient support to operators.”

    Over the past decade, the in-service fleet of Airbus aircraft in mainland China has grown on average by more than 20 per cent annually. To date, more than 620 Airbus aircraft are operated in China, with continued growth projected during the coming years.

    “The new extension, which is funded by the Hua-Ou joint venture itself, is a demonstration of the success story of the joint venture and the cooperation between Airbus and CAS,” said Li Hai, President of the China Aviation Supplies Holding Company, and Chairman of the Hua-Ou Board. “CAS will continue to provide strong support to the further development of the centre, which will contribute more to the development of China’s aviation industry.”

    The Hua-Ou Aviation Support Centre, which is China’s first maintenance training facility, offers door-to-door delivery services to several Chinese airlines. A total of 44 companies from Europe and the United States have committed to establishing a presence at the centre.

  • |

    Southwest Airlines Statement Regarding Tentative Agreement With Pilots Union on the Boeing 737-800

    Thu, Oct 14, 2010 – DALLAS – The decision to bring the Boeing 737-800 into the Southwest Airlines fleet moved yet another step closer to reality today as the Board of Directors for the Southwest Airlines Pilots’ Association (SWAPA), representing more than 5,800 Pilots, unanimously approved a tentative agreement reached with the Company. The tentative agreement will now be presented to the full SWAPA membership for a ratification vote.

    “Two months ago, we initiated discussions with both our Flight Attendants and Pilots as part of our contractual requirements to operate the-800,” said Mike Van de Ven, Southwest Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “Today, I want to congratulate both SWAPA and TWU 556, the Union that represents our Flight Attendants, for recognizing the potential longterm benefits associated with adding the -800 to our fleet. We are still evaluating the needs for training, scheduling, aircraft configuration, and other regulatory considerations, but this is an important step in the due diligence process.”

    If approved by a majority vote of the Pilots, their current contract will be extended by one year, becoming amendable August 31, 2012, and also include the potential for wage rate increases based on the Company’s financial performance.
    Last month, the Executive Board of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 556, representing more than 9,700 Southwest Flight Attendants, unanimously approved a tentative agreement reached with the Company. The tentative agreement is currently being presented to all members of TWU 556 for a ratification vote.

  • | |

    American Airlines and Jetstar Announce Codeshare and Interline Agreements

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 13 / — American Airlines and Jetstar, a Qantas Group airline, announced today that they have signed an agreement establishing a codeshare relationship between several destinations in New Zealand. American will place its AA* code on the following flights operated by Jetstar:

    In addition, an interline agreement between American Airlines and Jetstar has been launched, delivering enhanced customer access for customers to or from the United States across Jetstar’s growing Australian and New Zealand flight networks, now totaling more than 20 destinations.

    Members of American’s AAdvantage® program are able to earn mileage credit on all American-marketed flights. Jetstar flights marketed under the Qantas (QF*) code are also eligible for award redemption.

    “We’re very pleased to announce our agreement with Jetstar, a wholly-owned subsidiary of our oneworld® partner Qantas. Jetstar has established itself as a world-leading low-fare airline for customers in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. The relationship we announced today will add significant value for our customers traveling throughout New Zealand,” said Virasb Vahidi, American’s Chief Commercial Officer.

    Jetstar Group Chief Executive Officer Bruce Buchanan said: “Our proposed codeshare agreement with American Airlines will enable its customers to combine travel on Jetstar, American Airlines and other codeshare carriers such as Qantas as part of a single booking,” Buchanan said.

    Jetstar operates multiple daily services to four key destinations within New Zealand, including its hub at Auckland as well as Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wellington.

    “As the second largest airline in New Zealand and the fastest growing in our core Australian market, customers of American Airlines will gain even greater flexibility, convenience and choice of destinations when traveling to or within both countries,” said Buchanan.

    American currently serves Australia and the Asia-Pacific with codeshare service (AA*) on oneworld partner Qantas to Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from its Los Angeles gateway. With hubs in Sydney and Singapore, Jetstar serves 18 countries in the Asia-Pacific region with nearly 2,000 flights a week. Implementation of the codeshare arrangement is contingent upon certain governmental and regulatory approvals.

    About American Airlines

    American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American’s award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve nearly 700 destinations in more than 130 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. (NYSE: AMR)

    About Jetstar

    Jetstar is Qantas Group’s low cost airline brand. Jetstar is a wholly owned subsidiary of Qantas Group yet it has separate management. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Jetstar commenced operations on 25 May 2004 and is both the world’s largest low-cost long haul carrier and now largest LCC in Asia. The Jetstar Brands comprise its core Australian based (domestic and short/long haul international operations), Jetstar New Zealand operations (domestic and current trans Tasman international services), Jetstar Asia (based in Singapore), and Jetstar Pacific (domestic operations in Vietnam). Profitable since start-up, the company’s bold and distinctive brand is indicative of the fresh and vibrant approach toward low cost travel in the Asia Pacific region. Jetstar’s strong association with Qantas ensures the highest standards of operational excellence, whilst delivering real savings to customers through its discipline to low cost/high efficiency services and consistent value based offering. Visit Jetstar.com

  • |

    Boeing Delivers First 777-300ER to Turkish Airlines

    EVERETT, Wash., Oct. 14 — Boeing today delivered the first 777-300ER (Extended Range) to Turkey’s flag carrier Turkish Airlines.

    The milestone delivery marks many firsts for the airline.  The new airplane is Turkish Airlines’ first 777 directly purchased from Boeing. It is the first of 12 777-300ERs Turkish Airlines has on order with Boeing from 2009 and serves as the platform for introducing Turkish Airlines’ new "Comfort Class" cabin for the first time.

    "Turkish Airlines continues to grow as a global airline with the 777 helping us to expand into new markets in Asia and the Americas," said Hamdi Topcu, Chairman of Turkish Airlines. "The addition of new Boeing 777-300ERs exemplifies our commitment to delivering high quality service and comfort to our passengers, while enabling us to continue our profitable growth."  

    The 777-300ER brings new twin-engine efficiency to the airline’s long-haul fleet. The airplane is powered by General Electric GE90-115BLs, the world’s largest and most powerful commercial jet engines.

    "Turkish Airlines has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to set world-class standards for their operations," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 777-300ER is a great choice for Turkish, as the 777’s high efficiency, spacious cabin, and industry-leading reliability combine to help the airline provide a superior passenger experience."  

    With this delivery, Boeing is scheduled to deliver four additional 777-300ERs to Turkish Airlines by the end of 2010.

    The Boeing 777-300ER is 19 percent lighter than its closest competitor, greatly reducing its fuel requirement. It produces 22 percent less carbon dioxide per seat and costs 20 percent less to operate per seat. The airplane can seat up to 365 passengers in a three-class configuration and has a maximum range of 7,930 nautical miles (14,685 km). The 777 family is the world’s most successful twin-engine, twin-aisle airplane. Sixty-one customers around the world have ordered more than 1,100 777s.

    About Turkish Airlines

    Established in 1933 with a fleet of only five airplanes, Star Alliance member, Turkish Airlines is today a four-star airline company with a fleet of 145 aircraft flying to 166 destinations around the world, comprising 39 domestic and 127 international destinations.  

  • |

    Press Release – FAA Proposes $455,175 Civil Penalty Against Corporate Air

    For Immediate Release

    October 12, 2010

    SEATTLE – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a $455,175 civil penalty against Corporate Air of Billings, Mont., for allegedly operating a Beech 1900C airliner when it was not in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations.

    “Our aviation safety rules are designed to protect the flying public,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “We expect airlines to comply with these rules and will take enforcement action when they do not.”

    The FAA alleges Corporate Air failed to maintain the aircraft under the company’s general maintenance manual, which includes the Pratt & Whitney Canada maintenance manual for the aircraft’s turboprop engines.

    Specifically, the FAA alleges that Corporate Air operated the aircraft on at least 80 flights in spite of continued evidence of excessive oil consumption by the right engine. The FAA-approved aircraft and engine manuals call for post-flight inspection and repair of an engine experiencing excessive oil consumption. Corporate Air did not correct the oil consumption problem despite repeated inspections in which oil had to be added.

    Corporate Air operates charter and air taxi service under Part 135 of the Federal Aviation Regulations.

    “The safety of the passengers and crew must be the top priority for any operator,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “All operators must comply with maintenance requirements.”

    Corporate Air has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the agency.

  • |

    Press Release – FAA Proposes $664,000 Civil Penalty

    Press Release – FAA Proposes $664,000 Civil Penalty Against Parachute Center

    For Immediate Release
    October 12, 2010

    LOS ANGELES – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a $664,000 civil penalty against William C. Dause, doing business as The Parachute Center of Acampo, Calif., for allegedly failing to perform required aircraft parts replacements and failing to comply with safety directives.

    “Putting parachutists at risk by neglecting to follow safety procedures is unacceptable,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood. “We expect aircraft operators to comply with our safety rules and will take enforcement action when they do not.”

    The FAA alleges that The Parachute Center operated a DeHavilland DHC-6 Twin Otter when critical parts were well past their life limits and without inspecting portions of the wings for corrosion.

    In all, the FAA alleges that The Parachute Center operated the aircraft on approximately 2,121 flights between March 21, 2008 and Nov. 4, 2009 with elevator control cables that were overdue for replacement and when the plane was not in compliance with Airworthiness Directives requiring visual inspections of the wing main spar, lower spar cap extensions and wing support strut for possible corrosion.

    The FAA also alleges that the company operated the aircraft on at least 500 flights between April 16, 2009 and Nov. 4, 2009 with aileron control cables that were overdue for replacement.

    “Passengers and crew have to be able to trust that an operator has done the right thing and has complied with all the rules,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “Safety and compliance are the right choices, every time.”

    The Parachute Center has 30 days from receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the agency.

  • |

    NASA WANTS STUDENT INNOVATORS FOR 2011 GREAT MOONBUGGY RACE

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Four decades after the first NASA lunar rover
    rolled across the surface of the moon, innovative students are
    preparing to design and build a new generation of wheeled wonders.

    Registration is open for the 18th annual NASA Great Moonbuggy Race,
    set for April 1-2, 2011, in Huntsville, Ala. Participating schools
    and institutions may register one or two vehicles and teams.
    Registration closes Feb. 1.

    For complete rules, vehicle design parameters and registration for the
    race, visit:

    http://moonbuggy.msfc.nasa.gov

    NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center organizes the races held at the
    U.S. Space & Rocket Center, both in Huntsville. The event challenges
    high school and college students to design, build and race
    lightweight, human-powered “moonbuggies.”

    The first rover was developed, built and tested at Marshall in just 17
    months. The rover’s inaugural trip across the moon’s surface took
    place on July 31, 1971. It was driven by Apollo 15 astronauts David
    Scott and James Irwin. Two more rovers followed, enabling expanded
    scientific exploration during the Apollo 16 and 17 missions in 1972.

    NASA Great Moonbuggy Race teams carry on the tradition of engineering
    ingenuity. The teams attempt to post the fastest vehicle assembly and
    race times in their divisions, while incurring the fewest penalties
    on a challenging course simulating the rocky, unforgiving surface of
    the moon.

    Prizes are awarded to the three teams in each division that finish
    with the fastest race times. NASA and industry sponsors present
    additional awards for team spirit, best newcomer, most memorable
    buggy wipeout and other achievements.

    In 2010, for the first time, the victors in the high school and
    college divisions were both from outside the continental United
    States. The International Space Education Institute of Leipzig,
    Germany, raced to a winning time of just 3 minutes, 37 seconds in the
    high school category. The University of Puerto Rico in Humacao, the
    only school to enter a moonbuggy every year since the races began in
    1994, won the college division with a time of 4 minutes, 18 seconds.

    Participation in the race has increased from just eight college teams
    in 1994 to more than 70 high school and college national and
    international teams in 2010. The high school division was added in
    1996.

    More than 32,000 people watched live, streaming coverage of the 2010
    race on UStream, an interactive, real-time webcasting platform. For
    archived footage of the competition, visit:

    http://www.ustream.tv/channel/the-great-moonbuggy-race-2010

  • |

    IATA Press Release: IATA Applauds ICAO Agreement

    Montreal – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) applauded the 190 contracting states of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on achieving the first global governmental agreement with aspirational goals to stabilize carbon emissions. The achievement was formalized in a resolution of the 37th ICAO Assembly, which concluded its deliberations in Montreal today.

    “Governments have taken an historic decision. For the first time, we have globally agreed aspirational goals to stabilize emissions. No other industry sector has a similar globally agreed framework for managing its response to climate change in a manner that takes into consideration the needs of both developed and developing states. Moreover, it recognizes the need for governments and industry to work together. This is a good first step that prepares the way for future achievements,” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

    The ICAO Resolution

    The ICAO resolution calls for:

    • Improving fuel efficiency by 2% annually to 2050
    • Striving to achieve a collective medium-term aspirational goal of capping aviation’s carbon emissions from 2020
    • A global CO2 standard for aircraft engines with a target date of 2013

    The ICAO resolution also calls for the development of a global framework on market based (economic) measures by the 38th Assembly (2013) based on 15 agreed principles. These principles are designed to:

    • Minimize market distortions
    • Safeguard the fair treatment of aviation relative to other sectors
    • Ensure that aviation’s emissions are accounted for only once and
    • Recognize both past and future efforts of carriers

    Closing the Gap with Industry

    In 2007, IATA announced a vision for aviation to achieve carbon-neutral growth on the way to a carbon-free future with a four-pillar strategy based on technology investments, efficient infrastructure, effective operations and positive economic measures. In 2009, IATA’s membership committed to three goals: a 1.5% average annual improvement in fuel efficiency to 2020, capping net emissions with carbon-neutral growth from 2020 and cutting net emissions in half by 2050 compared to 2005.

    The global aviation industry united around this approach, putting aviation at the forefront of industrial sectors responding to climate change. “The four-pillar strategy and targets are not just airline commitments. The entire aviation industry—airlines, airports, air navigation service providers and manufacturers—have made a common commitment that UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon commended as a role model for others to follow. Aviation takes its environmental responsibility seriously. With today’s agreement, governments have taken a significant step in support of the industry’s ambitions,” said Bisignani.

    Bisignani addressed the gap in the industry’s commitment to a 1.5% average annual improvement in fuel efficiency and the ICAO goal of a 2% annual improvement. “We are confident that achieving a 1.5% average annual improvement in fuel efficiency is possible with efforts of the industry. The 2% ICAO goal means that governments must come to the table with much needed infrastructure improvements such as the Single European Sky or NextGen in the US,” said Bisignani.

    Next Steps

    The agreement’s principles on market based measures have implications for all governments with, or seeking to implement, environmental schemes or taxes. “In light of this agreement, all states should review any economic measures, planned or implemented, to conform to today’s agreed principles. The only effective long-term solution remains a global approach, which states agreed to work towards under ICAO’s leadership,” said Bisignani.

    “We must recognize that a long journey still lies ahead. Industry’s ambitious targets are still ahead of governments. Our commitment to cut emissions in half by 2050 compared to 2005 remains the global benchmark. The entire aviation industry is committed to working under the leadership of ICAO as we move forward to achieve both the aspirations outlined in today’s agreement and the industry’s targets. We will take this strong message to the United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change in Cancun later this year,” said Bisignani.

    In addition to this global agreement on environment, the ICAO Assembly marked notable progress with a global declaration on security and a milestone agreement on sharing safety information among IATA, ICAO, the EU and the United States. “I congratulate the ICAO leadership for their hard work and leading role within the UN system. President Roberto Kobeh Gonzáles, Secretary General Raymond Benjamin, and Assembly President Harold Demuren have concluded a landmark Assembly with major achievements on the industry’s top priorities of safety, security and environmental leadership.”

  • |

    Tarmac Delays in August Show Steep Drop

    Tuesday, October 12, 2010 – The nation’s largest airlines reported only one flight in August with a tarmac
    delay of more than three hours, compared to 66 flights in August 2009, with no
    change in the rate of canceled flights, according to the Air Travel Consumer
    Report released today by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

    Data filed with
    the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) showed the only tarmac delay
    longer than three hours reported in August by the 18 airlines that file on-time
    performance with DOT involved a United Airlines flight departing the San Juan
    airport on Aug. 5 that was diverted.  August was the fourth full month of
    data since the new aviation consumer rule went into effect on April 29. 
    There were only eight total tarmac delays of more than three hours from May
    through August this year, compared to 529 during the same four-month period of
    2009.  BTS is a part of DOT’s Research and Innovative Technology
    Administration (RITA).

    The largest
    carriers canceled 1.0 percent of their scheduled domestic flights in August,
    matching the 1.0 percent cancellation rate of August 2009.  They posted a
    1.4 percent cancellation rate in July 2010.

    See the DOT press release press release
    for Secretary Ray LaHood’s statement.

    The new tarmac
    delay rule prohibits U.S. airlines operating domestic flights from permitting
    an aircraft to remain on the tarmac for more than three hours without deplaning
    passengers, with exceptions allowed only for safety or security or if air traffic
    control advises the pilot in command that returning to the terminal would
    disrupt airport operations.  The Department will investigate tarmac delays
    that exceed this limit.

    The monthly
    report also includes data on on-time performance, chronically delayed flights,
    flight cancellations and the causes of flight delays filed with the Department by
    the reporting carriers.  In addition, it has information on airline
    bumping, reports of mishandled baggage filed by consumers with the carriers,
    and consumer service, disability and discrimination complaints received by
    DOT’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.  This report also includes
    reports of incidents involving pets traveling by air, as required to be filed
    by U.S. carriers.

    On-time
    Performance

    The reporting carriers recorded an overall on-time arrival
    rate of 81.7 percent in August, up from both the 79.7 percent on-time rate of August
    2009 and July 2010’s 76.7 percent. 

    Tarmac Delays

    In August, the carriers filing
    on-time performance data reported that .0400 percent of their scheduled flights
    had tarmac delays of two hours or more, down from .1030 percent in July. 
    There was one flight with a tarmac delay of more than three hours in August. 

    Chronically Delayed Flights

    At the end of August, there were four flights that were
    chronically delayed – more than 30 minutes late more than 50 percent of the
    time – for three consecutive months.  There were an additional 41 flights
    that were chronically delayed for two consecutive months.  There were no
    chronically delayed flights for four consecutive months or more.  A list
    of flights that were chronically delayed for a single month is available from BTS (www.bts.gov).

    Causes of Flight Delays

    In August, the carriers filing
    on-time performance data reported that 5.07 percent of their flights were
    delayed by aviation system delays, compared to 6.21 percent in July; 6.42
    percent by late-arriving aircraft, compared to 8.13 percent in July; 5.16 percent
    by factors within the airline’s control, such as maintenance or crew problems, compared
    to 6.37 percent in July; 0.46 percent by extreme weather, compared to 0.79
    percent in July; and 0.04 percent for security reasons, compared to 0.05
    percent in July. Weather is a factor in
    both the extreme-weather category and the aviation-system category. This
    includes delays due to the re-routing of flights by DOT’s Federal Aviation
    Administration in consultation with the carriers involved. Weather is also a factor in delays attributed
    to late-arriving aircraft, although airlines do not report specific causes in
    that category.

    Data
    collected by BTS also shows the percentage of late flights delayed by weather,
    including those reported in either the category of extreme weather or included
    in National Aviation System delays. In August, 35.07 percent of late flights
    were delayed by weather, down 10.70 percent from August 2009, when 39.27
    percent of late flights were delayed by weather, and down 6.75 percent from
    July when 37.61 percent of late flights were delayed by weather.

    Detailed information on flight
    delays and their causes is available on the BTS site on the World Wide Web at http://www.bts.gov.

    Mishandled Baggage

    The U.S.
    carriers reporting flight delays and mishandled baggage data posted a
    mishandled baggage rate of 3.50 reports per 1,000 passengers in August, an
    improvement over both August 2009’s rate of 4.11 and July 2010’s 3.79 rate.

    Incidents Involving
    Pets

    In August, carriers reported one incident
    involving the loss, death or injury of pets while traveling by air, down from
    both the three reports filed in August 2009 and eight in July 2010. August’s incident involved the injury of a
    pet.

    Complaints
    About Airline Service

    In August, the Department received 1,200
    complaints about airline service from consumers, up 34.7 percent from the 891
    complaints filed in August 2009 and up 9.7 percent from the 1,094 received in July
    2010.

    Complaints About Treatment of Disabled
    Passengers

    The report also
    contains a tabulation of complaints filed with DOT in August against airlines
    regarding the treatment of passengers with disabilities. The Department received a total of 71
    disability-related complaints in August, up from the total of 50 filed in
    August 2009 and the 56 complaints received in July 2010.

    Complaints
    About Discrimination

    In
    August, the Department received 17 complaints alleging discrimination by
    airlines due to factors other than disability – such as race, religion,
    national origin or sex – up from the total of 16 recorded in August 2009 and 12
    recorded in July 2010.

    Consumers may
    file their complaints in writing with the Aviation Consumer Protection
    Division, U.S. Department of Transportation, C-75, W96-432,


    1200 New Jersey Ave. SE,

    Washington,

    DC

    20590;
    by voice mail at (202) 366-2220 or by TTY at (202) 366-0511; or on the web at http://airconsumer.dot.gov.

    Consumers who
    want on-time performance data for specific flights should call their airline’s reservation
    number or their travel agent. This
    information is available on the computerized reservation systems used by these
    agents.

    The Air Travel
    Consumer Report can be found on DOT’s World Wide Web site at http://airconsumer.dot.gov. It is available in "pdf" and Microsoft Word
    format.

    Air Travel Consumer Report August 2010
    Key On-Time Performance and Flight Cancellation Statistics

    Based on Data Filed with the Bureau of Transportation Statistics by the 18 Reporting Carriers

    81.7 percent on-time arrivals

    Highest On-Time
    Arrival Rates

    1. Hawaiian
    Airlines – 95.6 percent

    2. Alaska
    Airlines – 88.7 percent

    3. Continental
    Airlines – 87.1 percent

    Lowest On-Time
    Arrival Rates

    1. Comair
    – 76.4 percent

    2. JetBlue
    Airways – 77.1 percent

    3. Delta
    Air Lines – 77.4 percent

    Flights with Longest Tarmac
    Delays

    1. United
    Airlines flight 700 from San Juan to Washington Dulles, 8/5/10 – delayed
    on tarmac 200 minutes

    (There was only one flight with a tarmac delay of more than
    three hours in August)

    Highest Rates of
    Canceled Flights

    1. Pinnacle
    Airlines – 2.5 percent

    2. Comair
    – 2.1 percent

    3. Delta
    Air Lines – 1.6 percent

    Lowest Rates of Canceled Flights

    1. Hawaiian
    Airlines – 0.1 percent

    2. Frontier
    Airlines – 0.1 percent

    3. Continental
    Airlines – 0.1 percent

    SRC: http://www.bts.gov/press_releases/2010/dot186_10/html/dot186_10.html

  • |

    Southwest Airlines and Its Stock Clerks End Mediation and Announce Tentative Agreement

    Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) Airlines Division, representing the carrier’s Stock Clerks, announced today that the two parties have reached a tentative agreement. The tentative agreement is for a new, five-year contract through August 16, 2013. The current contract became amendable on August 16, 2008.

    Earlier this year, Southwest and the Teamsters agreed to seek assistance from the National Mediation Board through the mediation process as defined by the Railway Labor Act. This current tentative agreement is due to the hard work and dedication of both parties.

    “I want to congratulate the negotiation teams for working together to reach this new tentative agreement, which delivers wage and benefit enhancements in exchange for work rule improvements and contract flexibility,” said Mike Van de Ven, Southwest Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “These are exciting times at Southwest, and our hard working Stock Clerks play an important role in the future success of this great Company.”
    In the upcoming weeks, the IBT membership will be given the full details of the agreement and have the opportunity to vote on ratification. IBT represents more than 170 Southwest Airlines Employees.

  • |

    For Immediate Release: Emas Fact Sheet


    Background

    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that commercial airports, regulated under Part 139 safety rules and federally obligated, have a standard Runway Safety Area (RSA) where possible. At most commercial airports the RSA is 500 feet wide and extends 1,000 feet beyond each end of the runway. The FAA has this requirement in the event that an aircraft overruns, undershoots, or veers off the side of the runway. The most dangerous of these incidents are overruns, but since many airports were built before the 1,000-foot RSA length was adopted some 20 years ago, the area beyond the end of the runway is where many airports cannot achieve the full standard RSA. This is due to obstacles such as bodies of water, highways, railroads, and populated areas or severe drop-off of terrain.

    The FAA has a high-priority program to enhance safety by upgrading the RSAs at commercial airports and provide federal funding to support those upgrades. However, it still may not be practical for some airports to achieve the standard RSA. The FAA, knowing that it would be difficult to achieve a standard RSA at every airport, began conducting research in the 1990s to determine how to ensure maximum safety at airports where the full RSA cannot be obtained. Working in concert with the University of Dayton, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and the Engineered Arresting Systems Corporation (ESCO) of Logan Township, NJ, a new technology emerged to provide an added measure of safety. An Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) uses materials of closely controlled strength and density placed at the end of a runway to stop or greatly slow an aircraft that overruns the runway. The best material found to date is a lightweight, crushable concrete. When an aircraft rolls into an EMAS arrestor bed, the tires of the aircraft sink into the lightweight concrete and the aircraft is decelerated by having to roll through the material.

    Benefits of the EMAS Technology

    The EMAS technology provides safety benefits in cases where land is not available, where it would be very expensive for the airport sponsor to buy the land off the end of the runway, or where it is otherwise not possible to have the standard 1,000-foot overrun. A standard EMAS installation extends 600 feet from the end of the runway. An EMAS arrestor bed can still be installed to help slow or stop an aircraft that overruns the runway, even if less than 600 feet of land is available.

    Current FAA Initiatives

    The Office of Airports prepared an RSA improvement plan for the runways at approximately 575 commercial airports in 2005. This plan allows the agency to track the progress and to direct federal funds for making all practicable improvements, including the use of EMAS technology. Of the approximately 1,000 RSAs at these airports, an estimated 60 percent have been improved to full standards, and an estimated 79 percent have been improved to the extent practicable.

    Presently, the EMAS system developed by ESCO using crushable concrete is the only system that meets the FAA standard. However, FAA has conducted research through the Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP) that examined a number of alternatives to the existing approved system. ACRP Report 29, Developing Improved Civil Aircraft Arresting Systems, published in January 2010, provides the industry with the most up-to-date and complete resource on potentially viable materials that can be used in future arresting systems. More information on the project, including a free copy of the report, can be found at the Transportation Research Board web site at http://www.trb.org/ACRP/.

    Many of the EMAS beds installed prior to 2006 need periodic re-painting to maintain the integrity and functionality of the bed. FAA is working with ESCO to develop a retrofit of the older beds with plastic lids that are used on newer installations. The lid should eliminate the need for the periodic re-painting. The FAA’s Technical Center and ESCO continue to conduct research that will further improve EMAS.

    EMAS Arrestments

    To date, there have been seven incidents where the technology has worked successfully to arrest aircraft which overrun the runway and in several cases has prevented injury to passengers and damage to the aircraft.

    • May 1999: A Saab 340 commuter aircraft overran the runway at JFK
    • May 2003: A Gemini Cargo MD-11overran the runway at JFK
    • January 2005: A Boeing 747 overran the runway at JFK
    • July 2006: A Mystere Falcon 900 overran the runway at Greenville Downtown Airport in South Carolina
    • July 2008: An Airbus A320 overran the runway at ORD
    • January 2010: A Bombardier CRJ-200 regional jet overran the runway at Yeager Airport in Charleston, WVA
    • October 2010: A G-4 Gulfstream overran the runway at TeterboroAirportinTeterboro, NJ.

    EMAS Installations

    Currently, EMAS is installed at 51 runway ends at 35 airports in the United States, with plans to install 8 EMAS systems at five additionalU.S.airports.

    Airport Location # of Systems Installation Dates
    JFK International Jamaica, NY 2 1996(1999)/2007
    Minneapolis St. Paul Minneapolis, MN 1 1999(2008)
    Little Rock Little Rock, AR 2 2000/2003
    Rochester International Rochester, NY 1 2001
    Burbank Burbank, CA 1 2002*
    Baton Rouge Metropolitan Baton Rouge, LA 1 2002
    Greater Binghamton Binghamton, NY 2 2002
    Greenville Downtown Greenville, SC 1 20023**
    Barnstable Municipal Hyannis, MA 1 2003
    Roanoke Regional Roanoke, VA 1 2004
    Fort Lauderdale International Fort Lauderdale, FL 2 2004
    Dutchess County Poughkeepsie, NY 1 2004**
    LaGuardia Flushing, NY 2 2005
    Boston Logan Boston, MA 2 2005/2006
    Laredo International Laredo, TX 1 2006
    San Diego International San Diego, CA 1 2006
    Teterboro Teterboro, NJ 1 2006+
    Chicago Midway Chicago, IL 4 2006/2007
    Merle K (Mudhole) Smith Cordova, AK 1 2007
    Charleston Yeager Charleston, WV 1 2007
    Manchester Manchester, NH 1 2007
    Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Intl. Wilkes-Barre, PA 2 2008
    San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA 2 2008
    Chicago-O’Hare Chicago, IL 2 2008
    Newark Liberty International Newark, NJ 1 2008
    Charlotte Douglas International Charlotte, NC 1 2008
    St. Paul Downtown St. Paul, MN 2 2008+
    Worcester Regional Worcester, MA 2 2008/2009**
    Reading, Regional Reading, PA 1 2009**
    Kansas City Downtown Kansas City, MO 2 2009+/2010
    Smith Reynolds Winston-Salem, NC 1 2010
    New Castle County Wilmington, DE 1 2010
    Key West International Key West, FL 1 2010
    Arcata-Eureka Arcata, CA 1 2010
    Telluride Regional Telluride, CO 2 2010

    ( ) Bed replaced

    * Widened in 2008

    ** General aviation airport

    + Reliever airport

    Additional projects currently under contract

    Location Number of Systems Expected Installation Date
    Farmingdale, NY 1 2010
    Stuart, FL 2 2011
    Augusta State, ME 2 2011
    Teterboro, NJ 1 2011
    Groton-New London, CT 2 2011
  • | |

    NTSB Release: TRANSPORTATION FATALITIES DROP IN 2009; PIPELINE AND MARINE DEATHS RISE

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 6, 2010

    Washington, DC – Transportation fatalities in the United
    States decreased by 9.2 percent in 2009 from 2008, according
    to preliminary figures released today by the National
    Transportation Safety Board.

    The data indicate that transportation fatalities in all
    modes totaled 35,928 in 2009, compared to 39,569 in 2008.
    Although highway, rail, aviation, deaths declined, pipeline
    and marine fatalities showed an increase.

    “While statistics show that transportation fatalities have
    declined this past year,” said NTSB Chairman Deborah A. P.
    Hersman, “we continue to see far too many accidents in all
    segments of the transportation community. There is still
    much work to do to prevent the loss of life on our roads,
    rails, waterways, and skies.”

    Pipeline fatalities increased by six (8 to 14), with an
    increase in both categories – gas pipelines and liquid
    pipeline operations.

    Marine deaths increased from 783 to 817, with the vast
    majority occurring in recreational boating (736). Other
    marine categories, including cargo transport and commercial
    fishing, showed increases as well, although commercial
    passenger vessels showed a slight decrease.

    Highway fatalities, which account for nearly 95% of all
    transportation deaths, decreased from 37,423 in 2008 to
    33,808 in 2009. In fact, highway fatalities decreased in all
    categories including motorcycle fatalities (down 16 percent)
    which had been on the rise in recent years.

    Aviation deaths decreased from 574 to 538. Nearly 90% of
    aviation fatalities occurred in general aviation accidents
    (471), but they still represented a decrease from the
    previous year (494).

    Rail fatalities decreased 4% from 781 to 751. The vast
    majority of these fatalities were persons struck by a rail
    vehicle.

    Aviation statistics are compiled by the NTSB. Marine numbers
    are provided by the Department of Homeland Security, and
    numbers for all other modes by the Department of
    Transportation.

  • | |

    Number of Serious Runway Incursions Cut in Half

    Thank you, Laura (Brown). And thank you to everyone for coming to Logan today.

    I want to share with you some very good news about runway safety in the United States.

    This year we have cut the number of serious runway incursions in half. It’s the second year in a row we’ve cut the number by 50 percent.

    A serious runway incursion is when a collision is narrowly avoided.

    We are down to six serious incursions in the entire country. And that is down from 67 ten years ago.

    This marked increase in safety would not have been possible without the concerted efforts and partnership of the aviation industry.

    The FAA made a call to action in 2007 to ask the entire industry to focus on reducing runway incursions.

    And the entire industry really came together—airlines, pilots, air traffic controllers, airport vehicle operators, associations, management, labor and the FAA. We all worked together to reduce these occurrences. We have maintained the focus and we have cut the number.

    Our goal is to get the number down to zero.

    That brings me to some great safety innovations we are rolling out in Boston.

    We just finished 90 days of testing a new warning system at Logan International that will keep our runways safe. Boston is among the first airports in the country to get this new safety technology.

    This runway safety system consists of three types of safety lights that give pilots direct warnings about possible dangers on the runway.

    In a simplified explanation, the new safety lights work much like a traffic light. They warn a pilot if it’s not safe to cross, enter or proceed down a runway.

    Boston is the first and only airport in the country to install these lights at intersecting runways.

    A series of red lights embedded in the pavement at Logan will provide 3,000 feet of warning leading up to the runway intersection.

    If there is a potential safety problem, the red lights come on and stay on as long as the collision potential exists. You stop what you’re doing and stay where you are.

    Boston has added two more types of safety lights. It now joins Dallas/Fort Worth, San Diego and Los Angeles airports with these safety features.

    Boston added safety lights for planes leaving a taxiway and entering a runway. The lights turn red if it’s not safe to enter or cross the runway.

    The third type of safety lights are called takeoff hold lights. These lights turn red if it’s unsafe to begin or continue to takeoff on a runway.

    These three types of runway status lights are going to give us an additional layer of safety. They will help us improve the exceptional work we are already doing with runway safety in this country.

    By working together we have markedly reduced the serious incursions and we’re making progress on all of them.

    We want to get at the root cause of an incursion, no matter how serious or minor, in order to improve our procedures and training.

    Why do incursions happen, you may ask?

    Why can’t a pilot tell if a danger exists on a runway?

    Ideally the air traffic controller will tell the pilot where to taxi and the correct runway to use. And ideally the pilot will hear it correctly and follow through.

    But we are all human. And with larger airports there is a lot more to keep track of, including vehicles and people.

    These lights will make it very plain that a pilot should stop and avoid the runway intersection.

    If you see a red light, the typical human reaction is to stop. That’s the whole idea.

    We plan to add runways status lights to an additional 19 of our busiest airports in the country over the next five years.

    These lights provide a direct and immediate indication to pilots and vehicle drivers that a potentially unsafe condition is developing and they should avoid it.

    They will help us to continually improve safety.

    I’m happy that you will have the chance to board a plane today and see how they work.

    Thank you for your time.

    Next I’d like to introduce Congressman Michael Capuano who represents Massachusetts’ 8th District, including Logan International Airport. We have worked closely together on many issues and I’m pleased he could be here today.

  • |

    Southwest Airlines Celebrates Diversity With North Texas Summit

    Southwest Airlines is celebrating workplace diversity by hosting its first Diversity Summit today themed “Join the Conversation.” The Summit will gather executives from North Texas local Fortune 500 companies to dialogue about diversity and inclusion initiatives, fostering new opportunities, and expanding best practices.

    Joining the conversation as keynote speaker is Dr. George C. Wright, President, Prairie View A&M University. Dr. Wright will be sharing his personal diversity journey and the impact it has had on his life. The Summit will focus on dialogue, education, and strengthening relationships to support an ever-changing workforce. The Summit also will provide participants with a workshop hosted by Pamela Tegarden, founder of the Soluna Institute, about raising the tide on gender diversity, and Tegwin Pulley, who will discuss, “Diversity, Employees, and the Bottom Line.”

    “We are thrilled to be hosting the first Southwest Airlines Diversity Summit in our hometown of Dallas. The purpose of this Summit is to listen and learn about diversity and inclusion best practices through open dialogue and interactive workshops,” said Linda Rutherford, Southwest’s Vice President Communication and Strategic Outreach. “A modern and diverse workforce is a key competitive advantage in the national marketplace. Southwest Airlines has an outstanding network of more than 35,000 Employees systemwide in 35 states, and growing.”

    The Southwest Airlines Diversity Summit was created and hosted by the airline’s Corporate Diversity Council. This Council is comprised of Southwest Employees who meet every month to improve the recruitment and advancement of women and minorities, increase supplier diversity,educate/train “Respecting Differences” consistent with meeting our Company’s business objectives, and create awareness of and show appreciation for cultural or lifestyle differences within our diverse workforce. This year, Hispanic Business Magazine named Southwest Airlines as one of the top Elite companies for Diversity.